WestJet Starts Charging For Recline, Locking Standard Seats Upright In October

Today’s deep-dive unpacks WestJet’s decision to start charging for reclining seats as newly retrofitted aircraft enter service in October. Standard economy on those planes will be fixed upright, with recline only available in Premium or an Extended Comfort section. It’s a notable shift in how comfort is priced on domestic and transborder routes.

We’ll explain what’s changing, the rollout across 43 aircraft through early 2026, and why reactions are so mixed. You’ll learn how to spot which flights offer recline, what labels to look for when booking, and how this fits into broader airline “unbundling” trends.

If you fly within Canada or across the border, this episode will help you plan, budget, and avoid surprises at the seat map. Follow @VisaVerge on social media and visit VisaVerge.com for more immigration insights.