WestJet Backpedals on Economy Seats That Don’t Recline
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- WestJet is reversing its decision to install non-reclining economy seats after widespread passenger complaints about cramped legroom and discomfort.
- The airline's CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech, acknowledged the experiment with reduced seat pitch aimed at keeping fares low but emphasized the importance of responding to customer feedback.
- WestJet's move reflects a broader industry trend where airlines like Spirit, Frontier, Southwest, and United have tested non-reclining or slimmer seats to increase capacity and reduce costs.
- Passenger advocacy group FlyersRights has called for government-mandated minimum seat standards, highlighting concerns over shrinking seat dimensions despite increasing passenger sizes.
- FlyersRights warns that continued reductions in seat pitch and width could eventually compromise passenger health and safety,
