Canada’s airport lounge scene has long been lacking.
With essentially two airlines dominating the market (you probably know which ones),
there’s a notable lack of competition, leading to limited lounge options.
However, things took a turn when WestJet opened their flagship lounge at Calgary International Airport: The Elevation Lounge.
Let’s take a look !
Entrance
The WestJet Elevation Lounge is right after security at the domestic B gates at Calgary International Airport.
Surprisingly, WestJet partnered with the Calgary Airport Authority to add a new security checkpoint at the B gates.
This allows WestJet guests to clear security and access the lounge in one go.
Access
The eligibility rules for the WestJet Elevation Lounge are surprisingly generous.
Complimentary access is available to the following customers:
- Passengers travelling in WestJet 787 Business class
- WestJet Rewards member
- Platinum/Gold – Unlimited access for you and up to five family members
- Silver – 4 access passes per year
- Amex Platinum Card holders – unlimited access for you and one guest
- Priority Pass, DragonPass, Lounge Club, and Diners Club members (based on their membership tier)
If you don’t fall in any above the above, you have the option to purchase access:
For guests traveling on a WestJet flight:
- Adult: $59 + GST
- Child (2 – 17 years): $30 + GST
- Child under 2 years: no charge
For guests traveling with any other airline:
- Adult: $65 + GST
- Child (2 – 17 years): $33 + GST
- Child under 2 years: no charge
Seating & Atmosphere
I’ll be sharing some of my photos but feel free to do a cool virtual tour.
What stands out upon entering the lounge is the extensive range of seating options available.
You’re presented with choices for relaxation, dining, or work, and the spaces are thoughtfully divided to create distinct atmospheres in each area.
One downside of this lounge though is the lack of direct tarmac views.
While you do have a decent view of the tarmac beyond the concourse, your vision will mostly be bothered by passengers walking by.
However, it’s perfect for those who enjoy people-watching!
In addition, there are more secluded spaces towards the back of the lounge.
These areas feature single sofas for chilling, loungers for relxation, and private booths for making calls without disturbing other guests.
Food and Service
Covid-19 measures were still in place during my visit, so the service was a bit reduced.
Nonetheless I was overall very impressed by the quality and spread of the food options.
The open walkthrough kitchen is where guests are supposed to navigate and help themselves to various offerings along the way.
This included snacks or desserts from the central millstone countertop, cold items from the self-serve stations, and hot items from the open-concept kitchen counter.
Unfortunately it was not fully operational due to covid-19 measures.
Instead, every table had a QR code that allowed you to view the menu on your phone by scanning.
I was quite hungry, so I ended up ordering quite a bit of food.
I must say, the marinated grilled pork and Lobster bisque were absolutely phenomenal.
On the opposite side of the dining room lies the WestJet Elevation Lounge’s signature bar.
The bar boasts a premium selection of beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails.
It proudly showcases Calgary’s vibrant brewery scene, featuring a signature Elevation beer on tap by The Dandy Brewing Company.
There were many drinks to choose from, but I decided to try the signature WestJet Elevation Cocktail.
From what I’ve heard, there’s a limit on the number of drinks you can order while in the lounge.
However, I never got to find out firsthand because my face turned beet red after just one drink.
Yeah, thanks go my Asian glow.
Final Thoughts
The WestJet Elevation Lounge left me extremely impressed, and I simply can’t wait to revisit.
As a lounge that’s available to both domestic and international passengers, I’m now really jealous of Calgary residents 😜
However, its generous entry requirement is a bit concerning, as anyone with a priority pass membership from credit cards can visit.
It will be interesting to see if this is sustainable, or if there will be a queue of 50 people lined up at the entrance, flashing their Amex platinum cards.
