Budget Airline Cuts Major Seating Perk, Forcing Passengers to Pay Up

Whether on a long-haul flight or a short 3-hour trip, a majority of passengers take advantage of reclining their seats to get some shut-eye. The Canadian airline, WestJet, has announced they are removing reclining seats from its aircraft.

WestJet revealed in its press release that they are reconfiguring its 43 Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft to provide a more "modern cabin experience." It will include upgraded premium seating and "extended comfort seating options."

Part of their new rollout includes regular economy seats that have "a fixed recline design," meant to help preserve a passenger's personal space. WestJet explained its decision as a way to meet guest demands for a wider range of travel options while staying within budget.

If wanting to catch some sleep and recline, the Premium cabin has been redesigned with 12 new seats with "ergonomically contoured seat cushions, reclining seat backs, and a large headrest with four-way adjustment capability."

Behind a cabin divider will also be the Extended Comfort section, equipped with 36 seats. The section offers more legroom than regular economy, with WestJet explaining the economy cabin, "offers choices ranging from less space at the back to more space near the front of the cabin."

Part of WestJet's press release also reveals that its new design reduces the cost per ticket with its slim-line seats, allowing the airline to add an extra row of seating. It further explains that it's ultimately up to the travelers on how much they want to spend for comfort on a WestJet flight.

"The layout for our refreshed cabin caters to our guests’ diverse preferences. Whether they opt for Premium seating with extra amenities and legroom or for more affordable ticket prices with less space, we’re excited to introduce this range of products for our guests to enjoy," said Samantha Taylor, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer.