WestJet Reverses New Seat Layout After Passenger Outcry Over Cramped Conditions

WestJet's Seat Layout Reversal

• ✈️ WestJet is canceling its new seat layout on nearly two dozen aircraft after significant passenger frustration.
• 💡 The airline had added an extra row of seats, removing about 2 inches of space between rows, claiming it would help lower ticket prices.
• 📸 A video of a couple crammed into the seats went viral on social media, sparking widespread criticism.

Passenger and Expert Reactions

• 🗣️ Passengers described the conditions as "inhumane" and questioned how people could travel long distances in such tight spaces.
• ⚠️ Former NTSB Chair Robert Somewalt noted that decreasing space between seats could make it more difficult to evacuate in an emergency.
• ✈️ Low-cost carriers like Spirit and Frontier are mentioned as having similar non-reclining or pre-reclined seats.

Airline's Rationale and Future

• 🔄 WestJet's CEO stated that while it's in their "DNA to try new products," it's also important to "react quickly if they don't meet the needs of our guests."
• 🗓️ WestJet has not yet provided a timeline for when the removed seats will be reinstalled.
• ⚖️ The report highlights that there are no US requirements for airplane seat size or the space between seats.