WestJet reverses course on tighter seat layout plan following criticism

CBS News • January 18, 2026 • business

Key Points:

WestJet has canceled its plan to add more seats to some aircraft after passenger backlash over cramped seating conditions, which were intended to lower ticket prices but instead caused frustration.
The airline had added an extra row to nearly two dozen planes since last October, reducing seat pitch by about two inches, but will now remove one row to restore previous seat spacing.
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech stated the airline tried the denser seating to offer affordable fares but will respond quickly to guest concerns by reverting to the prior layout.
Experts warn that reduced seat spacing can complicate emergency evacuations, highlighting safety concerns linked to denser seating configurations common among low-cost carriers.
The affected WestJet aircraft will see seating reduced