A Canadian airline, WestJet, recently announced a “full cabin refresh” of its fleet, promising upgraded Premium seating on planes that previously offered only Economy seating.
©WestJet
WestJet teased an “upgraded design” with a focus on new seats. These seats will feature adjustable headrests, enhanced cushion and back support, and a “fixed recline design in Economy that helps preserve personal space.” So, what does this mean, exactly?
To put it simply, WestJet plans to charge extra for reclining seats on its newly redesigned aircraft. The standard Economy seats will be updated to a “fixed recline.”
In a statement to ABC News, WestJet explained that it found that some travelers prefer a fixed recline, “to avoid feeling impacted by other passengers encroaching upon their space.” If a passenger wants the regular recline option, they can upgrade to the Extended Comfort or Premium cabins in the reconfigured aircraft.
©WestJet
At this time, not all WestJet planes feature the updated seat options. The redesigned planes make up less than a third of its narrowbody fleet. Some flight routes, like the Calgary to Orlando flight, currently offer either Economy or Premium tickets.
©WestJet
The first plane with the new seat design is set to begin service in October, according to ABC News. Additional panes (42 total) are scheduled to be ready “early next year.”
Orlando International Airport
If you purchase an Economy ticket, note that certain ticket types may have restrictions. The “Econo” Economy ticket, for example, does not come with advance seat selection, and any changes or cancelations will cost an extra fee. Checked bags are also not included in the cheapest ticket type.
©WestJet
This news comes amid a series of controversial airline announcements. Southwest Airlines recently made headlines when it announced the end of its “Bags fly free” policy.
©Southwest Airlines
So, if you want to recline your seat, you may want to read the fine print before you purchase your next airline ticket. In general, the better the deal seems to be, the fewer included benefits will come with your ticket.
In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest travel news, so stay tuned for more.
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