"Pay to Recline?"...Canadian Airline Faces Backlash Over Charging for Seat Reclining

Canadian Low-Cost Carrier WestJet
Makes Seat Reclining a Paid Option

Canadian low-cost carrier WestJet is facing controversy after deciding to make the reclining function for economy class seats a paid option. As the seat reclining feature, once considered a basic function of air travel, is now subject to an additional fee, some critics are calling this move "yet another pricing scheme to increase revenue."

"Fixed-Back Seats as the Default"...Complete Overhaul of Economy Class

Canadian low-cost carrier WestJet is facing controversy for pushing to charge extra fees for reclining economy class seats on some flights. The photo is for illustrative purposes only and is unrelated to the article. Pixabay

According to international media outlets such as ABC News on October 19 (local time), WestJet is redesigning the interiors of its aircraft, all of which are configured with economy class seats, to introduce fixed-back seats that do not recline as the standard option. Seats with reclining functionality will only be available in higher-class cabins.

WestJet plans to redesign the seats of 43 aircraft, which is less than one-third of its current narrow-body fleet. This includes aircraft from Swoop, Lynx, and Sunwing, which WestJet has acquired.

An airline representative told ABC that "customer usability tests showed that half of respondents preferred fixed-back seats to avoid encroaching on other passengers' space," adding, "Please note that the seat reclining option will be available only in premium cabins."

Samantha Taylor, Vice President of WestJet, stated in a press release, "The newly revamped cabin layout reflects the diverse preferences of our customers," and added, "You can choose premium seats with more amenities and legroom, or opt for more affordable fares."

"A Revenue Strategy, Not a Service Upgrade"...Experts and Consumers React Coldly

However, industry experts point out that WestJet has created a new pricing structure to generate additional revenue. John Gradek, an aviation management professor at McGill University, criticized the move in an interview with CBC News, saying, "They are trying to create yet another service tier for which they can charge higher prices in any way possible."

Consumer reactions have also been largely negative. Online, criticisms include: "Introducing fixed-back seats is fine, but charging for a feature that has been provided for over 40 years is a problem," "Air travel is one of the few services where quality keeps declining rather than improving," "The real issue is airlines narrowing the space between seats," and "They are just charging more money without any service improvements."

WestJet, which has gained popularity among Canadian travelers for its low fares, holds the second-largest market share in Canada's airline industry. However, as of the end of 2024, WestJet reported negative equity of approximately 2.6 trillion won, putting it in a state of capital impairment. The company has also posted consecutive losses for the past three years.