A popular low-cost airline is making major renovations to its aircraft that will affect reclining seat options.
The Canadian airline Westjet is reconfiguring its 43 Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft to offer upgraded premium and extended comfort seating, the company announced in a press release.
Travelers flying standard economy will have seats that are designed with fixed seats to help “preserve personal space.”
Regardless of the seat option, access to in-seat power sources, personal phone and tablet holders, reworked lavatories and galleys will also be offered on the planes.
“The cabin has been thoughtfully designed to offer WestJet’s welcoming service at every budget,” WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Experience Officer Samantha Taylor said in the statement. “It reflects our commitment to elevating every aspect of the travel experience and meeting guest demand for a broader range of product offerings.”
The new aircraft interior will feature a premium cabin with 12 new seats that are similar to WestJet’s 787-9 Dreamliner. The seats will have contoured seat cushions, reclining seat backs and a large headrest with four-way adjustable headrest.
The new extended comfort section will be directly behind premium and features 36 seats with extra legroom. The section will be separated from the economy cabin by a divider.
Standard seating in the economy cabin offers choices ranging from less space at the back to more space near the front of the cabin and upgraded seats featuring seat-back contouring to maximize legroom, WestJet explained.
The new plane design is supposed to help in reducing ticket costs with its slim-line seats, allowing WestJet to add an extra row of seating.
“The layout for our refreshed cabin caters to our guests’ diverse preferences,” Taylor said. “Whether they opt for Premium seating with extra amenities and legroom or for more affordable ticket prices with less space, we’re excited to introduce this range of products for our guests to enjoy.”