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business4h ago
Airline dropping non-reclinable economy seats after passenger backlash, viral videos
Nypost.com and 1 more
- WestJet will revert to its standard economy configuration, removing the extra cramped seating change after reviewing data and traveler feedback.
- The reversal follows social-media videos showing tight legroom that fueled passenger backlash.
- WestJet will still offer adjustable economy seats for customers who want extra space, at an added cost.
- The airline based its decision on traveler feedback and operational data, indicating a mismatch with guest needs.
- Pilots and flight attendants pushed back over comfort and safety concerns related to the tighter configuration.
- Alia Hussain, president of the WestJet cabin crew union local, welcomed the reversal.
- WestJet’s reconfigured interior was initially pitched as freeing space for more premium seating up front.
- WestJet paused the rollout in December before scrapping the plan, then moved to reverse the changes in January.
- Transport Canada certification and approval processes are required for interior reconfigurations affecting safety and evacuation.
- WestJet will reconvert 180-seat planes to 174-seat layouts and reassess other refurbishment aspects as it aligns product decisions with guest needs.
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