WestJet creates a small device with a big emotional job. WestJet Flight Light is a nightlight that uses live flight data to project a parent’s WestJet flight path onto a child’s bedroom ceiling, turning the wait into a visual, interactive countdown of hours and minutes until the parent returns.
Behind it sits a broader shift that shows up across industries. More brands move beyond selling a product and start designing convenience services that drive repeat usage and loyalty by solving real-life friction.
Here, the friction is business travel. WestJet wants frequent travellers to pursue work opportunities without losing connection with the people waiting at home. Flight Light makes the journey feel present. Not abstract.
Sometimes, taking care of our guests means taking care of the people they love. Introducing the WestJet Flight Light: a nightlight that projects the flight path of a parent’s journey onto their child’s bedroom ceiling. https://t.co/rVm2DnDBd1 pic.twitter.com/Fuy3SgzI0H
— WestJet (@WestJet) June 6, 2019
Why the concept works
The power is not the hardware. It is the experience design. A child’s instinct is to count down. Flight Light makes that countdown tangible and playful by projecting the route in the place where bedtime routines already happen.
The service logic
This is a brand service that behaves like a product. Live flight data becomes a family connection layer. The airline becomes part of the at-home story, not just the transport provider.
Beta-testing and what it signals
WestJet says a prototype of Flight Light exists, with beta testing scheduled to begin later this year. That is the bridge between a cute concept and something that can be operated, supported, and scaled.
A few fast answers before you act
What is WestJet Flight Light?
A nightlight concept that uses live WestJet flight data to project a parent’s flight path onto a child’s bedroom ceiling as an interactive countdown to their return.
Who is it designed for?
Business travellers and frequent flyers with families, especially parents who travel regularly for work.
What is the core experience design move?
Turn a data stream. Live flight status. Into a comforting, visible bedtime ritual that makes the trip home feel real and close.