WestJet Removes Reclining Function for Economy Seats to ‘Preserve Personal Space’

The revamped WestJet cabin interior on Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 is shown in this artist rendering. The airline says most economy seats will no longer have a recline option. WestJet/ handout photo

WestJet Airlines has announced an update to its economy class seating that will see traditional reclining seats replaced with fixed-back designs.

A cabin makeover on the Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft operated by the Calgary-based airline will bring a new range of seating options, including “fixed recline” seats in the economy section to help “preserve personal space,” a Sept. 23 WestJet press release says.