Westjet started out with a good concept. Unfortunately for them however, they have abandoned all of the pillars that made them successful. Live TV, leather seats, brand new airplanes, commercial agreements with other carriers, expensive reservation systems, etc. These are all things that Westjet proudly took no part in. By avoiding these frills, they really were able to offer fares for less than $100 between YVR-YYC-YEG-YWG etc. They really did give birth to a whole new breed of air traveller in Canada which contrary to popular belief, was a benefit to the entire industry. Unfortunately for them however, they have deviated from their initial plan, and set forth the catalyst to their own demise. It now costs over $250 for the same flight that was less than $100, and mark my words, a new lower cost entrant WILL come on the scene and be in a position to undercut Westjet by having lower operating costs. Yes that's right! Westjet today, is nothing like the Westjet of 1996. It's happened before, and it will happen again. As nice as it would be to live in Speedboat's cool aid inspired Utopian world, it's a fantasy that is as flawed as every other Canadian airline that no longer exists. The only difference is that this story is still unfolding.