Easyjet passengers on a select number of routes will be given an allocated seat, as part of a trial next year.
Currently, the airline operates on an unreserved basis, with travellers choosing their seats when they board the aircraft, and those who have purchased speedy boarding getting first choice.
From next Spring, the low cost carrier will trial allocated seating on “selected routes”, with passengers able to book any seat on the plane for a fee.
Details of routes and prices are yet to be announced, along with whether speedy boarding will continue to be offered.
Seats with extra legroom – such as those on the front row and on over wing exit rows – are expected to be in high demand, but will not be sold at an additional premium.
Carolyn McCall, Easyjet’s CEO, said the trial would be extended, if it made sense financially.
“We look forward to seeing how our passengers respond and how the trial works,” she said.
“We will roll it out further only if it works operationally, from a revenue perspective and increases passenger satisfaction. If it doesn’t, we won’t.”
Passengers who don’t opt to purchase a seat in advance will be given an allocated seat, with passengers on the same booking being placed next to each other “where possible”.
www.easyjet.com