WestJet is introducing an additional $60 fee on companion voucher bookings as fuel prices soar.

The airline’s companion voucher program is a WestJet RBC Mastercard perk allowing cardholders to bring a second passenger on a round trip for a reduced fare.

WestJet says the surcharge is temporary, and takes effect Wednesday, April 8. Bookings made before Wednesday will not be affected.

The surcharge will remain in place until “jet fuel prices return to normal levels,” WestJet said in an email sent to customers Friday morning.

It’s meant to offset rising fuel prices as a result of the ongoing Middle East conflict, a WestJet spokesperson said in a statement sent to CBC News.

“Fuel is the largest contributor to airline operating costs, and a temporary surcharge helps us manage the recent surge in fuel prices,” the statement read.

“While airfares can be adjusted and have greater flexibility in pricing, the nature of our companion vouchers does not allow for this same flexibility.”

WestJet consolidating flights

The airline is also adjusting its flying schedule to address higher fuel costs.

“This includes consolidating flights on lower demand routes and adjusting the travel period for seasonal offerings,” the airline said.

“We have reduced capacity by approximately one per cent in April and three per cent in May. Most guests impacted by these changes have been provided reaccommodation options within the same day as their original departure.”