After a whirlwind check-in and a brief visit to the lounge in Paris, my brother Scott was ready for some well-deserved relaxation on his journey. With an impressive 11 hours ahead on WestJet’s 787 Dreamliner, he had the perfect opportunity to unwind before tackling his final flight. Before boarding, he spent some quality time in the WestJet Elevation Lounge at YYC, taking a moment to recharge.
Curious about his experience, especially since I’ve only visited Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounge in Calgary, I asked him to share his impressions. What did he think of the amenities, the atmosphere, and the overall vibe of the WestJet lounge?
Here’s his comprehensive WestJet Lounge Calgary Airport review, highlighting the key features and nuances that set it apart, as well as some points for improvement.
BOOK HERE: Compare prices on Westjet Premium flights with Skyscanner
How Do You Access the WestJet Elevation Lounge?
Access to the WestJet Lounge Calgary airport comes with business class tickets on WestJet’s 787 Dreamlinner. Access is not given to Premium Economy or WestJet UltraBasic passengers.
WestJet Reward members also get complimentary access, depending on status level, as do Delta Sky Miles Diamond, Platinum or Gold Medallion members. Last, if you hold a Priority Pass (comes with American Express Business Platinum) you can also access the WestJet Elevation lounge for free, even if you are flying a different carrier.
If you don’t meet the criteria for complimentary access, don’t worry—WestJet offers a paid option for entry into their lounge. WestJet passengers can access the lounge for $59 plus GST, while non-WestJet guests will pay $65 plus GST. While this fee might seem steep for a domestic lounge, it could be worthwhile if you have a long layover and need a comfortable, relaxing place. The amenities and atmosphere can provide a welcome respite, making your wait more enjoyable. However, if you’re only passing through briefly, exploring other airport areas might be more economical.
Elevation Lounge Calgary Location and Seating
On arrival in Calgary, a single bridge was connected to the aircraft and business class passengers were allowed to disembark first. I was connecting to Edmonton so after the efficient trip through customs, I was able to connect to the departures area without needing to exit and go through security again. Good work Calgary.
The Elevation Lounge in Calgary is Westjet’s flagship location. It’s a single level space located in concourse B of the domestic terminal. The front of the lounge faces the concourse walkway. There is a one-way window so you can watch people walking by, but they can’t see in. I’d rather watch airplanes, but it’s better than staring at a wall.
The WestJet Elevation Lounge offers a diverse array of seating options designed to accommodate various preferences and needs, as showcased in the WestJet Elevation lounge photos below. You can find individual lounger-style sofas perfect for stretching out and relaxing and computer pods for those needing to catch up on work. Additionally, padded bench seats provide a more casual vibe, and small table areas are ideal for dining or socializing. This variety ensures that you’ll find a comfortable spot to suit your needs whether you’re looking to unwind, work, or enjoy a meal.
When I arrived at the WestJet Elevation Lounge in Calgary late in the afternoon, the atmosphere was lively, with a good number of guests enjoying the space. While the lounge had a bustling vibe, it remained relatively serene overall. A few individuals were inconsiderately watching videos on their phones without headphones, which was a minor disruption in an otherwise tranquil environment.
Fortunately, the lounge features two “focus spaces”—small private rooms available for use without prior booking. These spaces proved invaluable for me, as I was able to make a phone call without disturbing others around me.
The design of the WestJet lounge in Calgary airport exudes warmth and style, thanks to its central fireplace, modern art pieces, and rich wood accents. However, I did notice that some of the fabrics on the chairs and loungers were showing signs of wear and cracking. Given that the lounge only opened in late 2020, this was somewhat surprising and might warrant attention to maintain the overall aesthetic and comfort for guests.
Westjet Lounge Calgary Airport – Food & Drink
Similar to what Air Canada introduced with their Clean Care+ service, food and beverage service is ordered by scanning the QR code at your seat. The selection of hot food items is impressive and all of it looked intriguing. That said, I didn’t order any. I was still overstuffed from my flight but the mac & cheese ordered by the person next to me looked and smelled delicious.
The service in the lounge was impressively prompt, with staff consistently circulating to clear away used plates and ensure a tidy environment. One drawback I noticed with the app was the lack of an option to specify drink preferences, such as requesting a beverage “without ice.” However, this limitation is easily navigated; guests can simply walk up to the bar to place their order and communicate any specific requests directly to the bartenders. This flexibility helps enhance the overall experience, allowing for a more personalized touch in beverage selection.
Westjet Lounge Calgary Airport – Amenities
As I had several hours for the layover I took advantage of the shower facilities. I had to book an appointment – a 90-minute wait for the next spot – but well worth it. The shower room has a sink, toilet, and large accessible shower stall with body wash and conditioner dispensers.
The room was missing a bench or flat space to layout your bag, so I put my stuff as far away from the shower as possible to avoid any risk of spray.
Westjet Elevation Lounge Review – Overall Impression
The Calgary WestJet Lounge offers a solid alternative for travelers, and in many ways, it compares favorably to Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounge. In my WestJet Elevation Lounge review, I found that the lounge excels in providing quiet rooms and shower facilities, which enhance the overall experience for guests seeking a moment of peace or a refreshing break. The menu items available also add a nice touch, allowing guests to enjoy a selection of food and beverages.
However, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of a tarmac view, something I had expected to be standard in airport lounges. While the interior design is pleasant, having a glimpse of the runway could elevate the experience even further. Overall, the Calgary WestJet Lounge is a commendable space, but a few enhancements could make it truly exceptional.
Still, if you are flying WestJet’s business class through Calgary, stopping in for a pre-flight drink or shower between connections is a no brainer. Even if you are not flying in business class or flying a different airline, having the option to pay for access is nice, although pricey.
WestJet Elevation Lounge Good to Know
Includes: Snacks, drinks, WiFi, and shower access.
Don’t Miss: Eyeing your neighbours mac&cheese 😉
How do I access the WestJet lounge in Calgary?
To access the WestJet lounge in Calgary, you can either be a WestJet Elevation member or purchase a day pass. WestJet passengers can access the lounge for CAD 59 plus GST, while non-WestJet guests can enter for CAD 65 plus GST. Access may also be available through specific fare classes or elite status on partner airlines. It’s a great way to enjoy a comfortable space before your flight!
Are WestJet lounges free?
WestJet lounges are not free for most travelers. Access typically requires a membership, such as the WestJet Elevation program, or the purchase of a day pass, which costs CAD 59 plus GST for WestJet passengers and CAD 65 plus GST for non-WestJet guests. Certain fare classes or elite status on partner airlines may also include lounge access.
Do you tip at WestJet lounge?
Tipping at the WestJet lounge is not expected, as lounge services typically include complimentary food and beverages. However, if you receive exceptional service from the staff, a small tip to show appreciation is always welcome but not required.
Can you use WestJet lounge if not flying WestJet?
Yes, you can access the WestJet lounge even if you’re not flying with WestJet. Non-WestJet passengers can purchase a day pass for a fee, allowing them to enjoy the amenities available in the lounge.
What say you?
Thoughts on this WestJet Elevation Lounge Review?
Let’s hear it!
Looking for more luxury travel reviews?
