Leaning back during a flight – a small luxury many travelers take for granted – could soon come with a price tag. A growing number of airlines are re-thinking what “standard comfort” means, and one carrier has already decided that reclining your seat should no longer be free.
Canadian airline WestJet has unveiled a new cabin concept that divides passengers by comfort level – and by cost.
Under the new model, only those who pay extra will have the option to recline their seats. The move, the airline says, is meant to “modernize the cabin experience” and give travelers more choices.
How WestJet’s new seat model works
According to the company, future aircraft will feature 12 premium seats with adjustable backrests, upgraded headrests, and more ergonomic padding. These seats will be sold at a higher price.
Just behind them, an “Extended Comfort” section will offer 36 seats with extra legroom – but no reclining function.
The rear section, meanwhile, will feature standard economy seating: no recline, minimal leg space, and the lowest ticket prices.
WestJet Vice President Samantha Taylor said the redesign aims to provide “an inviting experience for every budget.”
The company argues that this tiered approach resolves long-standing passenger disputes over reclining and ensures transparency in what customers can expect.
More seats, less comfort
By removing the reclining feature in most rows, WestJet can add an additional row of seats per aircraft – allowing the airline to sell more tickets on each flight.
Critics, however, see it differently. Aviation expert John Gradek of McGill University told the New York Post that airlines are “charging passengers for what used to be standard,” calling the trend a clever illusion of added value.
The model isn’t entirely new: in Europe, Ryanair already operates most of its fleet with non-reclining seats, though it doesn’t offer any paid option for adjustable seating.
Analysts say WestJet’s move could mark the next phase of “micro-pricing,” where every small comfort – from legroom to seat angle – becomes a potential upsell.
Comfort now comes with a price tag
Industry observers note that budget airlines are testing how far passengers will go for affordability.
For many, the days of free reclining could soon be over, as airlines continue to squeeze every inch – and every euro – from the cabin layout.
The trend reflects a broader shift in aviation: less comfort, more capacity, and ever more creative ways to monetize the flying experience.
