The news went relatively unnoticed when WestJet announced it on 23 September. However, it may well herald a new era in air travel... The Canadian airline is redesigning the configuration of its cabins, with a new feature in the process: the seat recline has been added to the growing list of "extras" for which passengers will have to pay. Ancillary costs which, before the health crisis, brought in some 65 billion a year companies according to CarTrawler and IdeaWorksCompany.
As is often the case, the approach is presented as an advantage for travellers. WestJet describes it this way: " The modern cabin experience will offer a light and airy atmosphere with an enhanced design that includes new seats, adjustable headrests and reinforced padding and back support with a fixed recline in Economy that helps preserve personal space. ". This new configuration - planned for the Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 - is of course primarily economic. It will enable WestJet to generate new ancillary costs, and even to densify its economy cabin by adding an extra row of seats. With - as always in this kind of case - the promise of an à la carte trip that meets the expectations of all travellers, for all budgets. It is true, however, that this approach will at least have the merit of solving some of the problems of passengers living together on board...
WestJet management: " In line with the airline's strategy, a variety and segmentation of seating choices are designed to suit all comfort and budget levels and create more options for Canadians. Ultra-slim seats allow enough space on board to add an extra row of seats compared to the airline's previous standard configuration, reducing the cost per seat and helping to provide Canadians with affordability and flexibility. ".
Samantha Taylor, WestJet's Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Experience Officer, explains: "WestJet has always been a pioneer in making air travel accessible to Canadians, primarily by keeping costs low to offer affordable fares. The layout of our refurbished cabin meets the diverse preferences of our customers. Whether they opt for premium seats with extra amenities and legroom or more affordable tickets with less space, we are delighted to introduce this range of products for our customers to enjoy.
It remains to be seen how this WestJet 'innovation' will be received, but there's a good chance that other carriers will follow suit. The temptation is too great, and airlines "dare to do anything"...
