Working at WestJet offers a wealth of opportunities across a variety of roles, from cabin crew and pilots to customer service and corporate positions. Each position is integral to the airline’s success, ensuring passengers experience safety, comfort, and exceptional service. Roles vary in responsibility, skill requirements, and salary. For example, Cabin Crew salaries start around £25,000 per year, while Pilots can earn upwards of £80,000. Customer service and corporate roles like Operations Coordinators or Marketing Specialists typically range from £28,000 to £50,000, reflecting their experience and strategic responsibilities. Understanding each role’s expectations helps candidates tailor their answers in interviews effectively.
Preparation is key, and this guide presents 30 common WestJet interview questions and answers, covering simple opening queries, competency-based questions, the STAR method, ending questions, and essential do’s and don’ts. With over 25 years of experience coaching UK professionals, I, Jerry Frempong, provide actionable insights to help you shine in your WestJet interview.
1. Tell me about yourself
This classic opening question allows you to introduce your professional background confidently. Focus on your experience relevant to the role.
Answer: “I have five years of customer service experience in high-paced environments. I’ve consistently exceeded performance targets and thrive in team settings, making me excited about the opportunity to contribute to WestJet’s passenger experience.”
2. Why do you want to work at WestJet?
Highlight your knowledge of the airline’s culture and values.
Answer: “WestJet’s reputation for safety, innovation, and exceptional customer service aligns with my personal and professional values. I am eager to contribute to a team that prioritises passenger satisfaction and operational excellence.”
3. Describe a time you handled a difficult customer
This is a competency question. Use the STAR model: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Answer: “A passenger missed their connecting flight due to weather delays (Situation). I was tasked with finding a solution (Task). I arranged an alternate flight, provided meal vouchers, and followed up to ensure comfort (Action). The passenger left positive feedback and later sent a letter of appreciation (Result).”
4. What are your strengths?
Focus on qualities that match the job description.
Answer: “I am highly organised, attentive to detail, and excel under pressure. My communication skills allow me to resolve conflicts efficiently, which is essential in customer-facing roles at WestJet.”
5. What is your greatest weakness?
Be honest but constructive.
Answer: “I sometimes take on too many tasks at once. I’ve improved by prioritising work and using digital tools to manage multiple responsibilities efficiently.”
6. How do you handle stressful situations?
Show your problem-solving approach.
Answer: “I remain calm, assess priorities, and focus on actionable solutions. In my previous role, this approach helped manage passenger flow during unexpected delays without compromising service quality.”
7. Why should we hire you?
Tailor your answer to the company’s needs.
Answer: “I bring a combination of customer service expertise, a strong work ethic, and a passion for travel. My experience aligns perfectly with WestJet’s standards of excellence.”
8. Describe a time you worked as part of a team
Use STAR again.
Answer: “During peak season, our team needed to manage an unexpected surge in bookings (Situation). I coordinated tasks, communicated clearly, and ensured smooth operations (Action). This teamwork resulted in no delays and high customer satisfaction (Result).”
9. Can you work flexible hours?
Be transparent and adaptable.
Answer: “Yes, I understand that WestJet requires flexibility and I am prepared to work shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed.”
10. What motivates you at work?
Link to company culture.
Answer: “I am motivated by making a difference in passengers’ experiences. Delivering exceptional service and contributing to a cohesive team gives me a strong sense of accomplishment.”
11. How do you prioritise tasks?
Show organisational skills.
Answer: “I assess urgency and importance, create a to-do list, and tackle high-priority items first. This ensures critical tasks are completed efficiently.”
12. Tell me about a time you solved a problem creatively
STAR format again.
Answer: “We faced a last-minute flight cancellation (Situation). I devised a seating reallocation strategy and communicated options proactively (Action). This solution minimised delays and maintained passenger satisfaction (Result).”
13. Describe your experience with airline software
Technical competence question.
Answer: “I have experience using reservation and check-in systems, including Sabre and Amadeus, allowing me to manage bookings accurately and efficiently.”
14. Give an example of handling conflict at work
Competency-based.
Answer: “Two colleagues disagreed on task priorities (Situation). I mediated, encouraged open communication, and helped find a compromise (Action). The team then worked harmoniously (Result).”
15. What do you know about WestJet’s core values?
Show research and alignment.
Answer: “WestJet values safety, caring for guests and each other, integrity, and innovation. I admire this culture and am committed to upholding these principles.”
16. How do you ensure safety in your role?
Critical for operational roles.
Answer: “I follow standard operating procedures diligently, conduct thorough pre-flight checks, and stay alert to any potential risks.”
17. Tell me about a time you exceeded expectations
Use STAR.
Answer: “During a busy holiday period (Situation), I implemented an extra follow-up system for customer requests (Action). As a result, we received a record number of positive reviews (Result).”
18. How do you handle negative feedback?
Self-awareness question.
Answer: “I view feedback as an opportunity to improve. I listen carefully, ask clarifying questions, and implement changes to enhance performance.”
19. Describe a time you met a tight deadline
STAR format.
Answer: “We had to prepare a last-minute promotional package (Situation). I prioritised tasks and coordinated with the team (Action). The package was completed on time and well-received (Result).”
20. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Future-oriented.
Answer: “I aim to grow within WestJet, taking on more responsibility and contributing to strategic projects while developing my professional skills.”
21. How do you handle multiple passengers’ needs at once?
Practical competency.
Answer: “I assess urgency, delegate when possible, and communicate proactively to ensure all passengers feel valued.”
22. Tell me about a time you took initiative
STAR format.
Answer: “I noticed recurring passenger complaints about boarding delays (Situation). I proposed a new seating allocation process (Action). Passenger satisfaction improved significantly (Result).”
23. How do you keep yourself motivated during repetitive tasks?
Self-management question.
Answer: “I focus on accuracy, set personal goals, and remind myself of the bigger picture – enhancing the passenger experience.”
24. What is your approach to customer service excellence?
Key role competency.
Answer: “I listen actively, anticipate needs, and provide personalised assistance while maintaining a professional and friendly demeanor.”
25. How do you handle emergencies?
Critical safety question.
Answer: “I stay calm, follow protocol, communicate clearly, and prioritise safety to manage emergencies effectively.”
26. Why are you leaving your current role?
Career growth.
Answer: “I am seeking an opportunity where I can develop further and make a meaningful impact, and WestJet offers the perfect environment.”
27. What do you enjoy most about working in aviation?
Passion-driven.
Answer: “I enjoy interacting with diverse passengers, contributing to safe flights, and being part of a dynamic, collaborative team.”
28. Do you have experience handling confidential information?
Data protection competency.
Answer: “Yes, I have experience managing sensitive passenger and operational data, always following strict confidentiality protocols.”
29. Do you have any questions for us?
Use this to show engagement.
Answer: “Could you share more about the career development opportunities for cabin crew within WestJet?”
30. Closing statement – why WestJet should hire you
Answer: “I bring the skills, dedication, and enthusiasm needed to contribute to WestJet’s success, ensuring passengers enjoy a safe, comfortable, and memorable flight experience.”
Interview Do’s and Don’ts for WestJet
Do’s:
Research the company thoroughly.
Use the STAR model for competency questions.
Dress professionally and arrive on time.
Show enthusiasm and positive energy.
Ask insightful questions about the company.
Don’ts:
Don’t speak negatively about previous employers.
Avoid vague answers.
Don’t exaggerate experience or skills.
Don’t interrupt the interviewer.
Avoid looking unprepared for competency questions.
General Interview Coaching Advice
Preparation is your secret weapon. Practising answers, understanding the STAR method, and knowing your CV inside out dramatically improves confidence. Remember, interviews are two-way conversations – showing curiosity about WestJet and demonstrating how you’ll add value is just as important as answering questions.
For personalised guidance, I recommend seeking professional interview training, working with an experienced interview coach, or attending interview coaching online. These services provide tailored feedback, mock interviews, and practical tips to ensure success. Investing in job interview preparation is the fastest way to boost your confidence, polish your answers, and stand out from the competition.
Remember, persistence, preparation, and positivity will help you land your dream role at WestJet. With over 25 years of experience helping UK professionals succeed, I encourage you to embrace the process, practice diligently, and approach your interview with optimism. You’ve got this!
To take your preparation to the next level, book a session with a professional interview coach today and ensure you’re fully ready for every question that comes your way.
