I suspect WS mgmt knows it has a somewhat irrational market (to some degree) in western Canada who will not fly AC at any cost (unless the AC/WS premium is too high). Sort of like Telus/Shaw in western Canada when it comes to internet. Know more than a few people who stick with Shaw despite its inferior internet service due to some offense Telus (or BC Tel if you go back far enough) caused them.

I do admit I fly WS only because it accumulates miles and elite status for now (and only for the next 4+ months) towards my FFP of choice.