According to Daily Dot, WestJet is facing widespread criticism after a viral video highlighted how cramped its newest basic fare seats appear to be. The footage spread quickly on social media, prompting renewed debate over shrinking airline legroom and paid seating tiers.
The video, first shared on Reddit, shows an older couple tightly wedged into their seats on a recent flight. Filmed by their daughter, the clip captures the couple struggling to move their legs in the limited space available, with little room to adjust or get comfortable.
In the video, the passengers are unable to straighten their legs at all. When asked if they could stretch, they replied that it was impossible, underscoring how restrictive the seating appeared to be for even average-height travelers.
The trade-off for cheaper fares is wearing thin
The original poster noted that passengers seated in the basic fare section also could not recline unless they paid extra for premium seating. WestJet introduced the redesigned seats as part of what it described as a “modern cabin experience,” a change that allowed the airline to add an extra row to its aircraft.
While the basic tickets are slightly cheaper, many online commenters argued the reduced cost does not justify the loss of personal space. Similar airline seating stories have gone viral in recent months, including one where a passenger carefully chose a seat with no one in front of her only to be startled by what was actually staring back.
Despite the backlash, WestJet executives have defended the move, with executive vice president and chief experience officer Samantha Taylor stating the cabin was designed to offer “WestJet’s welcoming service at every budget” and a broader range of product options. Online reactions to the video were swift, with many flyers criticizing what they see as excessive add-on fees.
Some described basic fare travel as paying repeatedly for once-standard features, while others suggested avoiding the airline altogether. That frustration mirrors reactions seen in other airline incidents, such as a Spirit Airlines passenger whose experience with a supposed perk quickly turned uncomfortable.
Beyond comfort, commenters also raised safety and health concerns. One user questioned how passengers could properly assume a recommended brace position during an emergency landing given the lack of legroom, warning of increased injury risks.
Critics also noted that WestJet is not alone in shrinking seat space. Aviation analyst William McGee has said major U.S. airlines have reduced legroom by two to five inches since the 1980s, bringing the average down to around 31 inches, with some budget carriers offering as little as 28 inches.
When the FAA previously solicited public feedback on airplane legroom, McGee noted the agency received more than 26,000 comments that were overwhelmingly negative. The reaction to WestJet’s new seating suggests growing frustration as airlines continue to prioritize capacity over passenger comfort.
Published: Jan 7, 2026 08:45 pm