WS has zero interest in joining an alliance. They have very little interest in outbound codeshare (putting WS code on other airline flights).

Their sweet spot is an inbound codeshare for a specific per revenue amount(Example CX pays WS a fixed price per seat to transport CX pax on YVR-YYC). This plan was attempted during the dieing days of Durfy administration. Saretsky adjusted the plan to allow for specific outbound codeshare plus he would accept a lower margin revenue sharing agreement based upon prorates rather than negotiate each segment separately. The adjustments made by Saretsky have brought AF/KLM, AA, and CX onboard.

Other aspects that WS does not like regarding the alliance membership: There is no aspect to "opt out" of agreement with another alliance member. Example is an alliance member in region not lilely to be served by WS or an alliance member where WS shares a connection at an outstation.
- WS loses all negotiating power within the alliance as they will always be a smaller partner.
- Frequent flyer mile costs are a big disincentive for WS. Having to pay for miles with other plans would increase their CASM by 10-15% percent (about 1.5 cents per mile).
- Lounges would be required in the following cities: YYC (2), YYZ (2), YVR (2), YEG, YOW.
- Complications to the checkin and boarding process would reduce customer service and decrease efficiency. At checkin there are currently two lines (OLIC/bag drop, traditional checkin including ticket purchase). An alliance membership would require separate ticketing desk and elite checkin. At the gate, WS would have to stratify their boarding order by elite status.