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WestJet’s Tighter Cabin Layout Faces Backlash After Viral Video as Executives Flag Long-Haul Challenges

WestJet says the 28-inch, non-reclining seats are confined to 22 aircraft.

Overview

  • The carrier’s September reconfiguration reduces seat pitch to about 28 inches with fixed-back rests to fit more seats.
  • An internal memo reported by The Canadian Press says executives tested the setup and found it would pose challenges on long-haul and overnight flights.
  • A December TikTok showing passengers struggling with legroom focused public attention on the new rows.
  • Advocates warn the denser layout could impede bathroom access and slow emergency evacuations, prompting calls for closer review.
  • The change enables up to 180 seats on some planes in a market dominated by Air Canada and WestJet, with no immediate regulatory action reported and critics saying fares in the tighter rows are not cheaper.