A WestJet flight attendant warned Transport Canada about serious safety risks from the airline's cramped new seating configuration weeks before a viral video sparked widespread public outcry, according to documents obtained through access to information requests.
The five-page safety hazard report, filed by a Calgary-based crew member on December 5, 2025, detailed an incident where a passenger became physically trapped in his seat during a flight from Puerto Vallarta to Calgary on November 29.
The report describes how a tall passenger with a "large height and body structure" could not exit his aisle seat on the reconfigured aircraft, which had been modified to squeeze in an extra row by reducing legroom throughout the cabin.
Passenger Required Assistance to Exit Seat
According to the flight attendant's detailed account, the passenger's knees, legs and upper body extended significantly into the aisle due to the cramped conditions. When crew members attempted to relocate him to a seat with more legroom, he became "physically trapped" and "remained stuck in his seat."
"I lifted the armrest to create additional clearance, and his daughter assisted by pushing his legs to the side. Only then, was he able to stand by himself and exit the row," the flight attendant wrote in the report.
The crew member emphasized that the passenger "could not self-evacuate" due to the new seat configuration, raising serious concerns about emergency evacuation procedures.
Safety Concerns Raised Before Public Backlash
The internal safety report was submitted nearly three weeks before a December 26 video showing an Alberta family struggling with WestJet's reduced legroom went viral on social media platforms. Discussions about the airline's controversial seating changes have been active on Calgary Forums, where local travelers have shared their experiences and concerns.
The flight attendant specifically used the term "imminent risk" in the report, warning that similar incidents could occur again under the same conditions. The crew member noted that in an emergency situation, trapped passengers would endanger not only themselves but also those seated in middle and window seats who would be unable to exit the row.
Government Response Timeline Questioned
Transport Canada did not respond to the safety report until December 30, 2025, nearly four weeks after it was filed. WestJet announced on January 16 that it would reverse the controversial seating layout following mounting public pressure.
The timing raises questions about the federal government's response to what was described as an "imminent safety risk" by airline personnel. For travelers concerned about aircraft safety records and configurations, services like FullVIN.com provide detailed vehicle history reports, though similar comprehensive databases for commercial aircraft safety modifications are not readily available to consumers.
Broader Impact on Travel Industry
The WestJet seating controversy has highlighted ongoing tensions between airline profitability and passenger comfort and safety. The incident has prompted discussions about regulatory oversight of aircraft modifications and the balance between cost-cutting measures and passenger welfare.
Community organizations like WestNet Humanitarian Services have noted increased concerns from travelers with mobility issues who rely on accessible seating arrangements for safe air travel.
The documents obtained by CBC News represent 41 pages of correspondence between WestJet, Transport Canada, and various safety officials. The airline's decision to reverse the seating configuration came after sustained public criticism and regulatory pressure.
For Albertans staying connected while traveling, reliable internet access through providers like WestNet Wireless has become essential for sharing real-time travel experiences and safety concerns on social media platforms.
This article is based on reporting by CBC Calgary. Visit CBC Calgary for the original coverage.
