Canadian low-cost airline WestJet came under fire last week for promoting a new seating option that gives passengers early access to overhead bins (for an additional fee, of course).
Last Thursday, WestJet announced that it would launch an “Extended Comfort” option on April 10th.
Passengers who currently book an economy seat (Basic, Econo, or EconoFlex) on the airline’s 737 or 787 aircraft can choose to upgrade.
“Conveniently located in front of the economy cabin, guests will enjoy WestJet’s affordability and ease of access,” John Weatherill, WestJet Group’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer, said in a statement. They will benefit from enriching experiences that align with their values.”
When you book an Extended Comfort Seat, you receive the following benefits:
- Seats with extra legroom (3 to 6 inches)
- Priority boarding (Zone 2)
- Early access to overhead shelf space
- Leaving early on arrival
- Unique section in front of the economy cabin
- Complimentary alcoholic beverages during onboard service (based on flight time, aircraft type, and destination)
A WestJet spokesperson told Daily Hive that Extended Comfort fares start at $30, but can vary depending on origin and destination, fare set purchased, travel dates and seat location.
Canadians took to social media to react to the new seat option, with many taking to Instagram to accuse the airline of “continuing to take more money out of our customers.”
Some thought the idea was silly enough to become a late April Fool’s joke.
Announced on April 1st?
— Bill (@BillvLee) April 4, 2024
Another comment about the seats on Daily Hive’s Instagram reads: “Just making money out of something that never mattered before.” “Why should I pay for a storage problem that’s not my problem? They’re getting my money’s worth.”
in a few years @WestJet Introducing “Premium Comfort,” where you can pay to use the restroom before anyone else 😡 https://t.co/zCJIEI46mg
— Neeee (@BeLikeNee) April 5, 2024
can’t believe it @WestJet, are you guys charging for overhead shelf space now? Are you serious?
— FAUX KNEWS (@dramaXLIV) April 5, 2024
“Good. Soon we’ll all be paying for the air we breathe,” added another commenter on Instagram.
Other travelers pointed out that airlines do things like this.[fewer] Because of the high fees, people are leaving their luggage in storage. ”
“Why? Is it because people are refusing to check in their bags due to abandoned or lost luggage? So is it best to charge more for a service that should be provided? ?” read another comment on Instagram.
In response to the backlash, WestJet told Daily Hive in an email statement that it remains committed to increasing the affordability of air travel in Canada.
“Last year, we unveiled our plans to evolve the seating we offer on our mainline aircraft, making it more flexible and responsive to the diverse needs of Canadians,” the airline said.
“The introduction of Extended Comfort is consistent with this strategy and will allow Canadians to choose the travel option that best fits their travel requirements and budget.”
