Canadian airline WestJet has announced a major upgrade to the interiors of its Boeing aircraft, introducing three new seat classes and introducing a surcharge for reclining seats. The first aircraft with the new configuration will enter service this month, FOX Business reports, citing a company representative.
By the beginning of next year, 42 refurbished Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft will be available to passengers.
According to the airline, the new cabin will be brighter and more spacious, as well as providing ‘improved back support and adjustable headrests.’ At the same time, the seat backs in economy class will be fixed, which, as WestJet notes, will help maintain personal space between passengers.
‘The modern cabin will provide a bright, spacious atmosphere thanks to an updated design that includes new seats, adjustable headrests, improved cushioning and back support, and a fixed recline angle in economy class,’ the company said in a press release.
The updated aircraft configuration provides for three categories of seats: Premium, Extended Comfort and Economy.
Passengers wishing to use seats with adjustable backrests will be able to choose premium class, where there will be only 12 such seats on board.
‘Half of the passengers during testing indicated that they prefer fixed seats so as not to feel cramped by other passengers. Those who prefer reclining seats should note that this feature will only be available in the Extended Comfort and Premium zones,’ WestJet said.
The airline also warned that legroom will be minimal in the last rows (20th to 31st).
