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WestJet Airlines announced Friday that the Canadian carrier will reverse its decision to reconfigure planes with tighter seats after videos went viral showing travelers’ frustrated knees pressing against the seat in front of them due to tight spaces.
In the reconfigured layout, which rolled out on select Boeing 737s in late October, the space between rows was reduced to 28 inches to accommodate an additional row of seats. WestJet also made economy class seats non-tilt, giving passengers the option to pay extra for reclining seats.
In a news statement, the company said it will reverse what it called the “densified seating” by removing the extra row of seats.
“After reviewing operational data and feedback from guests and WestJetters, the airline will return to the previous standard seat pitch for economy cabins on these newly reconfigured aircraft by removing one row of seats,” the company said.
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The airline added that the company will “convert all 180-seat aircraft to a 174-seat layout, with completion timelines to be determined.”
WestJet’s introduction of the reconfigured seats has sparked widespread outrage among travelers and even crew members.
Reuters reported that pilots and flight attendants have expressed concerns about the comfort and safety of the new configuration, particularly whether passengers can safely evacuate the plane in an emergency due to limited seating.
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A WestJet 737 aircraft arrives at Toronto Pearson International Airport in Mississauga, Ontario, on September 9, 2025. (Mike Campbell/NurPhoto/Getty/Getty Images)
Alia Hussain, president of the local union representing WestJet cabin crew, said on Friday she welcomed the airline’s decision to change course, Reuters reported. Flight attendants reportedly faced numerous complaints from frustrated passengers and in some cases had to change seats for taller travelers whose legs did not fit properly.
“It created a hostile working environment for us as cabin crew,” Hussain said.
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Two WestJet Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Boeing 737-700 are pictured at Calgary International Airport in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, on August 6, 2025. (Artur Widak/NurPhoto/Getty Images)
While the non-reclining seats were intended to help passengers maintain their personal space while maintaining affordable travel options, WestJet said it recognizes the need to “tailor product decisions to guest needs.”
“WestJet has piloted seat positions that are popular with many airlines around the world as they serve to provide affordable airfare,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of WestJet Group. “As an enterprising airline committed to making air travel affordable for Canadians, it’s in our DNA to try new products. At the same time, it’s just as important to respond quickly if they don’t meet the needs of our guests.”
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The airline said the reconfiguration plans were suspended in December and the company is accelerating the review of the new interior layout.
Reuters contributed to this report.
