WestJet passengers may soon have to pay extra if they want seats that recline.
The airline announced that it’s updating the cabins on its Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 planes to give travellers more seating choices at different prices.
While the upgrades include new seats with adjustable headrests and better cushions, most economy seats will no longer recline. WestJet says the fixed seat design will help “preserve personal space” between passengers.
“The cabin has been thoughtfully designed to offer WestJet’s welcoming service at every budget,” said Samantha Taylor, WestJet’s executive vice-president and CEO. “It reflects our commitment to improving the travel experience and meeting guest demand for more options.”
Economy passengers will be able to choose from three seat types:
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Rows 20–31: least legroom
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Rows 15–19: moderate space
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Rows 10–12: most legroom
Those who want reclining seats will need to pay for Extended Comfort seats, which come with extra legroom and adjustable recline. There will be 36 of these seats in the economy section.
WestJet’s premium cabin will also feature reclining seats with contoured cushions and adjustable headrests. This section will have 12 seats, similar to those found on the airline’s larger Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner planes.
The first of 43 planes with the new cabin design will start flying this month.
