WestJet Pauses Removal of Reclining Seats; Plans to Resume in Spring

WestJet Airlines has temporarily suspended the removal of reclining seats from its aircraft, stating that the reconfiguration of its fleet will continue in the spring of 2024. The Calgary-based airline plans to complete the reconfiguration of half of its all-economy fleet by December 15, 2023. In an email statement, WestJet spokesperson Julia Brunet confirmed the decision to pause reconfiguration during the peak winter travel season, ensuring aircraft availability for increased passenger demand.

The initiative to reconfigure the seating arrangement involves modifying the layouts of 43 Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft. This change aims to enhance seating options, including the addition of fixed-reclining seats that do not tilt back, which can be purchased at a higher price. The decision has sparked criticism from passengers and consumer rights advocates. Gabor Lukacs, a prominent voice in passenger rights, expressed disappointment over WestJet’s plans, stating, “It is disappointing that WestJet intends to proceed inconveniencing passengers despite the public outcry.”

Lukacs highlighted that the move represents a potential reduction in passenger comfort while also suggesting that it serves as a way for the airline to increase revenue. He stressed that the right to a comfortable seat should not be compromised in the pursuit of profit. “Having a seat you can fit in is a passenger right that you pay for,” he added.

Despite the backlash, WestJet is committed to evaluating customer feedback regarding the new cabin designs. Brunet noted that this reconfiguration is part of a broader effort to modernize the airline’s offerings, which include improved in-flight services like high-speed Wi-Fi provided by Telus, as well as a revamped premium cabin. The airline describes the revamped premium cabin as a significant upgrade, with newly designed seating arrangements aimed at enhancing the overall flight experience.

In the economy section, the introduction of a larger Extended Comfort area will feature 36 seats with additional legroom, separated from the standard economy seating by a cabin divider. Passengers can still opt for exit row seating for more legroom, maintaining some choice amid the changes.

Lukacs criticized the trend of airlines implementing additional fees, describing such practices as a “race to the bottom.” He called for more stringent regulatory measures to protect consumers, arguing that Canadians have not been vocal enough in demanding accountability from airlines and government regulators. He pointed to existing regulations, such as the Air Passenger Protections Regulations (APPR), which took effect in 2019, as having insufficient enforcement. These regulations primarily address communication between airlines and customers, as well as issues related to flight delays and lost baggage.

The Canadian Transportation Agency reported over 150,000 air travel complaints since the APPR’s implementation, underscoring ongoing challenges within the industry. Lukacs emphasized the need for government action, stating, “If these issues remain unaddressed, it is expected that air carriers and passengers will continue to struggle with interpreting the regulatory requirements.”

As WestJet navigates the complexities of its fleet reconfiguration, the airline seeks to balance operational needs with passenger comfort, a task that remains fraught with challenges. The pause in removing reclining seats reflects an awareness of customer sentiment, but the ultimate outcome of these changes will be closely monitored as the airline prepares for a busy travel season.