WestJet Now Charging for Reclining Seats

Canadian airline WestJet is making a significant change to its cabin experience, announcing that passengers will soon need to pay an extra fee for reclining seats on many of its flights. This move is part of the airline’s strategy to enhance its competitiveness with other carriers by offering a more differentiated seating product.

Introducing Premium Seating Options

WestJet plans to roll out a “modern cabin experience” across its fleet of Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft. This upgraded design will feature 12 premium seats equipped with larger headrests, “ergonomically contoured seat cushions,” and four-way adjustability. Behind this premium section, an additional 36 seats will offer “extended comfort,” separated from the standard economy section by a cabin divider and providing more legroom.

The most affordable option will be the standard economy section, where travelers will not have access to extra legroom or the ability to recline their seats. WestJet noted that the first of 43 planned aircraft featuring the new cabin configuration is expected to welcome guests in October 2025.

Catering to Diverse Passenger Preferences

WestJet, a low-cost Canadian airline founded in 1996, operates a fleet of around 200 aircraft, serving over 100 destinations across North America, the Caribbean, Central America, Europe, and Asia. Previously, the airline’s aircraft featured all-economy seating. The airline engaged its reward members and employees for input on the new seating design in January 2023 and tested a prototype during the summer of 2025.

Samantha Taylor, WestJet’s Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer, stated, “The cabin has been thoughtfully designed to offer WestJet’s welcoming service at every budget.” She added, “It reflects our commitment to elevating every aspect of the travel experience and meeting guest demand for a broader range of product offerings.” Taylor emphasized that the refreshed cabin caters to diverse preferences, whether guests seek premium amenities or more affordable fares with less space, expressing excitement about introducing these varied products.