Flights in and out of Lloydminster will have all seats open, starting July 1st. WestJet has chosen to end all seat distancing on domestic flights, allowing for full planes and removing the middle seat as a barrier.
Officials with the airline say because of their HEPA air filters on the planes, they don’t need the extra barrier. These filters, they say, send clean recirculated air into the plane’s cabin, and the airflow is from ceiling to floor. Westjet adds that the large seat-backs also provide a barrier.
The announcement comes after the airline reviewed the International Air Transport Association’s guidance, and also their own safety and health precautions. They mention steps like mandatory temperature checks of all passengers, enhanced cleaning and sanitization of all touchpoints, modifications to its in-flight service, aircraft fogging and a requirement for guests and crew to wear masks.
“Safety is at the forefront of every decision we make and as our industry adapts to a new normal, we will continue to adjust our health measures to ensure the safest travel experience. This includes spending millions of dollars in cleaning and sanitizing measures, along with personal protective equipment, to ensure the safety and well-being of our guests and our people,” said Westjet in a release.
WestJet will be resuming their online booking service Wednesday as well. Air Canada will follow suit, removing restrictions on seats the same day.