WestJet Reinstates Reclining Economy Seats After Backlash
WestJet has decided to reinstate reclining economy seats following public criticism regarding legroom and seating comfort. This decision marks a significant pivot from the airline’s earlier announcement of a cabin overhaul that featured seats designed to remain upright.
Background of the Controversy
Canada’s second-largest airline, WestJet, initially sought to enhance personal space by introducing non-reclining seats. However, this move was met with backlash from passengers who deemed the new economy seating as cramped and uncomfortable.
Details of the Cabin Change
Prior to the reversal, WestJet planned to implement a seating configuration that reduced the distance between rows, known as seat pitch, from approximately 30 inches to 28 inches. This adjustment was intended to accommodate additional seating on their aircraft.
Response from Airline Leadership
WestJet’s Chief Executive, Alexis von Hoensbroech, acknowledged the airline’s intent to experiment with various seating options used by other global carriers aimed at keeping airfares low. In a recent statement, he emphasized the importance of adapting to customer feedback to meet their needs effectively.
Industry Trends in Seating Arrangements
WestJet’s decision is not isolated; several airlines have been pursuing similar strategies. Budget carriers like Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines have previously introduced non-reclining seats or marketed their seating as “pre-reclined.”
Concerns from Advocacy Groups
Organizations such as FlyersRights have consistently advocated for minimum seat standards across the industry. They highlight a trend of diminishing seat pitch, noting it has decreased from 35 inches to an alarming average of 31 inches, with some seats now as narrow as 28 inches. A petition submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration in 2022 raised concerns about the health and safety risks posed by increasingly cramped seating arrangements.
Future Considerations
As airlines continue to adjust their seating to maximize capacity, passenger comfort remains a crucial factor. WestJet’s reversal on the reclining seats reflects an acknowledgment of the importance of passenger feedback in shaping travel experiences.
