WestJet passengers shocked and outraged: Now you have to pay to recline on Boeing 737 flights

WestJet passengers may soon find themselves paying extra just to lean back. The Canadian airline has unveiled its redesigned Boeing 737 cabin interiors, complete with three distinct seat classes and a surprising new rule: only premium passengers can recline their seats.

The update, announced on September 23, is part of a broader effort to modernize the airline’s fleet while maintaining its reputation for affordable fares. But not everyone is thrilled about having to pay more for a basic comfort feature, as per a report by Fox Business.

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What’s changing on WestJet flights?

WestJet’s updated Boeing 737 interiors will debut later this month, featuring a fresh, modern cabin layout designed to balance comfort and cost. According to the airline, 42 additional reconfigured aircraft, including the Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800, will be flying passengers by early next year, as per a report by Fox Business.

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“The modern cabin experience will offer a bright, airy atmosphere with an upgraded design that features new seats, adjustable headrests and enhanced cushion and back support with a fixed recline design in Economy that helps preserve personal space,” WestJet said in a press release, as per a report by Fox Business.

"Through our guest user testing, half indicated they preferred a fixed recline, to avoid feeling impacted by other passengers encroaching upon their space," the WestJet statement said, reported by Fox Business.

How will reclining work under the new system?

The new layout introduces three seat classes: Premium, Extended Comfort, and Economy. Only passengers in Premium, a limited section of 12 seats per aircraft, will enjoy the ability to recline.

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“For guests that prefer a recline option, please note that seating in the Extended Comfort and Premium cabins of reconfigured aircraft will include this feature,” WestJet said in a statement to FOX Business. The airline also revealed that through guest testing, half of surveyed passengers preferred fixed recline seats to avoid feeling “impacted by other passengers encroaching upon their space,” as per a report by Fox Business.

Rows 20-31, located at the back of the plane, will offer the least legroom and space, according to WestJet’s updated seat guide.

Why is WestJet making these changes?

Samantha Taylor, WestJet’s executive vice president and chief experience officer, said the redesign is about giving passengers options while keeping fares affordable, as per a report by Fox Business.

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“WestJet has always been a pioneer in making air travel available to Canadians, largely through keeping costs low to offer affordable airfare,” Taylor said. “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."

FAQs

Do all WestJet seats recline now?
No. Only Premium and Extended Comfort seats on reconfigured Boeing 737 aircraft have recline features.

When will the new cabin designs be available?
The first updated aircraft enters service later this month, with 42 more joining by early next year.