WestJet Says Its Monitoring Feedback After Passenger Video of New Economy Seats Goes Viral

Pilots taxi a WestJet Boeing 737-700 aircraft to the runway for departure from Vancouver International Airport in Richmond, B.C., on May 19, 2023. The Canadian Press/Darryl Dyck

A viral video of WestJet’s new economy-style seating has some passengers concerned about comfort and safety, while the company says the changes are “in line” with other North American airlines.

WestJet announced last September plans to upgrade its aircraft by replacing its traditional economy class reclining seats with fixed-back designs. The company said at the time the change would offer a new range of seating options for its Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft, and would help “preserve personal space.”