Overview

• Economy on reconfigured Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 jets shifts to fixed-recline seats, removing adjustable recline as a standard feature.
• The only reclining seat backs are in a 12-seat Premium section that mirrors WestJet’s 787-9 seats and requires a higher fare.
• A 36-seat Extended Comfort band adds extra legroom behind Premium, with outlets differing on whether those seats recline.
• WestJet says the denser layout adds one row to reduce cost per seat, with the first 43 refreshed aircraft entering service by the end of October and the rest following into early 2026.
• Passenger advocates criticize the change as charging for a previously included amenity, while industry reporting notes several budget carriers already use fixed or reduced-recline seating.