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Canadian budget carrier WestJet will soon make reclining seats a paid feature on 43 of its aircraft as part of a wider redesign plan, marking a major shift in how passengers pay for comfort while flying. The change applies to select Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft, accounting for less than a third of WestJet’s total fleet.
Under the new configuration, standard economy seats will have fixed backs, eliminating the reclining option. Travellers who want reclinable seats will need to book in the airline’s Extended Comfort or Premium cabins. According to WestJet’s official statement, the first redesigned plane will begin service by the end of October 2025, with the remaining aircraft entering operation next year.
According to the redesign, the first 12 seats will make up the Premium cabin, featuring ergonomic cushioning, reclining backrests, and adjustable headrests. The following 36 seats will form the Extended Comfort cabin, also offering reclining options and additional legroom. The economy section will consist of fixed-back seats with reduced legroom. Reports indicate these seats can recline only about 1.5 cm, compared to the previous 5 cm.
Fleet from merged low-cost carriers
The 43 aircraft being reconfigured were previously operated by Swoop, Lynx, and Sunwing, all budget carriers that have merged into WestJet’s operations. The airline said it will continue flying some “Economy Seats Only” aircraft in the interim to maintain affordability and network reach. These aircraft will be identified by an indicator on WestJet’s booking platform.
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“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, Executive Vice President and Chief Experience Officer at WestJet.
WestJet’s new reform aligns with a growing trend among low-cost airlines globally. Carriers such as Spirit Airlines, Allegiant Air, Ryanair, and easyJet already operate aircraft without reclining seats in economy class.
The redesign signals WestJet’s effort to balance affordability with passenger comfort while expanding its range of cabin options across domestic and international routes.
Under the new configuration, standard economy seats will have fixed backs, eliminating the reclining option. Travellers who want reclinable seats will need to book in the airline’s Extended Comfort or Premium cabins. According to WestJet’s official statement, the first redesigned plane will begin service by the end of October 2025, with the remaining aircraft entering operation next year.
According to the redesign, the first 12 seats will make up the Premium cabin, featuring ergonomic cushioning, reclining backrests, and adjustable headrests. The following 36 seats will form the Extended Comfort cabin, also offering reclining options and additional legroom. The economy section will consist of fixed-back seats with reduced legroom. Reports indicate these seats can recline only about 1.5 cm, compared to the previous 5 cm.
Fleet from merged low-cost carriers
The 43 aircraft being reconfigured were previously operated by Swoop, Lynx, and Sunwing, all budget carriers that have merged into WestJet’s operations. The airline said it will continue flying some “Economy Seats Only” aircraft in the interim to maintain affordability and network reach. These aircraft will be identified by an indicator on WestJet’s booking platform.(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)
“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, Executive Vice President and Chief Experience Officer at WestJet.
WestJet’s new reform aligns with a growing trend among low-cost airlines globally. Carriers such as Spirit Airlines, Allegiant Air, Ryanair, and easyJet already operate aircraft without reclining seats in economy class.
The redesign signals WestJet’s effort to balance affordability with passenger comfort while expanding its range of cabin options across domestic and international routes.
