Overview
- WestJet will remove the added row from reconfigured Boeing 737s and revert to its prior standard seat pitch across economy cabins.
- Twenty-two aircraft had been fitted with fixed-recline seats at roughly 28 inches of pitch for a 180-seat layout, with 21 more originally slated for the change.
- The airline says conversions will begin after it secures engineering certification, with the CEO indicating the work should be finished by year-end.
- The reversal follows viral TikTok videos and feedback from staff, passengers and advocates who flagged discomfort, accessibility issues and evacuation concerns.
- WestJet maintains the tighter layout was intended to help keep fares affordable and says other planned cabin refresh elements will proceed.