WestJet has made a U-turn on its decision to retrofit some of its Boeing 737 fleet after backlash surrounding the tighter space.
The retrofitted fleet would add an extra row, increasing to 180 seats, reducing pitch to 28 inches and removing recline for nearly all economy seats.
“Following a review of operational data and feedback from guests and WestJetters, the airline will return to its prior standard seat pitch for economy cabins on these recently reconfigured aircraft by removing one row of seats,” said the airline.
"WestJet tried seat pitches that are popular with many airlines around the globe as they serve to provide affordable airfares," said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group CEO. “As an entrepreneurial airline founded on making air travel affordable to Canadians it's in our DNA to try new products. At the same time, it is just as important to react quickly if they don't meet the needs of our guests.”
WestJet had paused reconfiguration plans in December and planned to finalise its evaluation of the new interiors in mid-February. The airline said it has “accelerated the review to address feedback and clarity sooner”.