Airline sparks debate by making passengers pay extra to recline their seats

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Have you ever been annoyed on a flight by the person in front of you repeatedly tilting their seat back? A Canadian airline is trying to address this issue… in a unique way.

WestJet, a Canadian airline, has announced a new policy: passengers will have to pay extra to recline their seats. The airline says this change is being made to “preserve personal space.”

In a press release, the company announced a significant overhaul of its cabin interiors, boasting an “upgraded design” that includes new seats with adjustable headrests and improved comfort thanks to better cushion and back support. The seats will have a fixed recline design.”

Simply put, as Global News reported from WestJet, a ‘fixed recline’ seat is one that cannot be adjusted.

As a frequent flyer, I was really interested to hear that the airline is trying to give us a bit more personal space in economy! They said it’s the reason for the change, which is great. And get this – they’re also adding another row of seats, and their explanation is that it’ll actually lower the cost per seat. That’s a win-win if it works!

If travelers want more space, they’ll have to spend extra money – a cost that has caused some negative reactions from potential customers.

Airline paywalls reclining seats

WestJet states that passengers choosing ‘Extended Comfort’ or ‘Premium’ seating options will enjoy seats with adjustable recline. This allows for a more personalized and comfortable flying experience.

John Gradek, who teaches supply networks and aviation management at McGill University, described the decision as a “cash grab” intended to “maximize revenue.”

People on social media had different opinions, but most strongly disapproved of the decision. Many thought it would make traveling a very unpleasant experience, like a nightmare journey.

“WestJet is finding new methods to make the flying experience even more unpleasant – all in the name of increasing profits,” one person criticized.

Another customer strongly protested: “After WestJet left me stranded twice with no help at all, I’ve cancelled my WestJet MasterCard! I encourage everyone else to cancel theirs too, before they start charging higher fees and you’re stuck with seats that don’t recline.”

It wasn’t a universally disliked change, however. Certain people believe that the absence of differing viewpoints could actually be a positive thing.

Honestly, it’s frustrating – I’m paying for a seat, but usually the person in front of me reclines so far back that it’s basically digging into my knees!” the customer said, but surprisingly, they still called the change “good.” I guess some people are just more patient than others, or maybe they have a different perspective on comfort!

Here’s a thought: I’m hearing that Westjet is removing reclining seats in economy class for shorter flights, and I think that’s a good thing. We all pay for a specific amount of legroom, and I’m often stuck with someone’s seat pushed back into my knees. @AirCanada, you should consider doing the same!

— Jeffrey Luscombe (@JeffreyLuscombe) September 27, 2025

Okay, so I was reading the comments, and someone else totally agrees with me – non-reclining seats in economy on shorter flights? Yes, please! Seriously, there’s just not enough room to begin with. I’m only 5’7″ and even I feel cramped. I completely approve of this – no one needs to be invading my personal space on a quick flight! It’s all about comfort, honestly.

WestJet isn’t alone in offering new perks. Back in September, Delta revealed it was providing passengers with YouTube Premium for in-flight entertainment, meaning travelers could enjoy videos from creators like MrBeast while snacking on Shake Shack.

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2025-10-01 00:19