CALGARY — Effective March 13, WestJet will accept new maximum dimensions for carry-on baggage.

WestJet made the move to align with common international dimensions adopted by other North American carriers and baggage manufacturers, including partner carrier Delta Air Lines.

The new maximum dimensions (22” x 14” x 9”) account for wheels and handles. WestJet has added one inch of height to the accepted dimensions, reducing the current width limit (21” x 15” x 9”) by one inch to increase overall stowage capacity.

“We hope this change will help reduce check-in and boarding times by eliminating inconsistencies between WestJet and many other carriers,” said Colleen Tynan, WestJet’s VP Experience Management.

“The introduction of new standard dimensions ensures that more baggage can be carried on more flights, which should have a significant impact on the overall onboard experience,” said Tynan.

The decision to adopt the new carry-on baggage dimensions follows years of operating WestJet’s own dimensions. WestJet guests and employees have provided feedback on optimizing stowage capacity on the airline’s various aircraft, which vary in capacity based on aircraft size, Tynan added.

This includes the Sunwing aircraft scheduled to be added to WestJet’s fleet this spring.

WestJet’s new baggage sizes will be delivered by March 13 to all airports that WestJet flies. To give guests time to adjust to the new carry-on baggage dimensions, Tynan said WestJet will honour and accept bags with the current maximum dimensions, as well as bags with the new maximum dimensions, until May 5.