Airline launches 'ultra basic' plane ticket that makes Ryanair look lavish

A budget airline has launched an ultra-basic plane ticket that is the lowest-priced option with no extras - including no hand luggage. Canadian airline WestJet introduced the new fare offering known as UltraBasic.

According to the website the UltraBasic 'gives guests the voice to add certain extras like reserving a seat in advance or adding a checked bag'.

As reported by the Mirror, the fare is expected to reduce prices across domestic and transborder routes, provide more choice, make air travel more acceptable and expediate the boarding process.

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As part of the new fare, passengers can store a personal item under the seat. It also gives them a pre-assigned seat at the back of the aircraft, the option to buy 'extended comfort', checked baggage or seat selection for additional fees, and the same service with onboard food and drinks options. There's also access to the 'WestJet Connect' inflight entertainment and connectivity system.

But guests are not allowed to take a carry-on bag - and will be the last passengers to board the flight. You will also not be able to change your booking, or cancel after 24 hours - not even for a charge.

When booking, there is clear messaging about the fare and its limitations. A spokesperson from WestJet stated: "This messaging is intended to ensure that guests are informed and aware of the fare they are purchasing and the terms they agree to. Digital and printed boarding passes will also indicate no carry-on bags are permitted with UltraBasic fares."

John Weatherill, WestJet's group executive vice-president and chief commercial officer, said: "We are committed to air travel affordability, and UltraBasic is an innovative cost-effective solution that strengthens WestJet’s ability to offer guests budget-friendly airfares to more destinations.

"With UltraBasic, guests can tailor a travel experience that meets their needs, without paying for additional services they don’t value. We are delivering on our low-fare promise and believe UltraBasic will give more Canadians the opportunity to fly."

Airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet already have flights for really low prices, where they later charge for add-ons like printing a boarding pass or changing the name on a ticket.