LONDON — British Airways continues to look for ways to cut costs, and next on the chopping block? Reclining seats.
According to Fox News, the ******* will outfit 35 Airbus A320neos and A321neos with non-reclining seats in economy. The aircraft, which will come into service later this year, are scheduled to fly short-haul flights.
A BA spokesman said that the change will “allow us to offer more low fares to customers”, and that the aircraft will still offer perks like at-seat power and, soon to come, onboard Wi-Fi. “The new aircraft will have brand new seats set to a gentle recline to ensure everyone in the cabin enjoys a comfortable journey,” the spokesman said.
The move could force BA to change its elite status as it emulates budget airlines. Since Alex Cruz, former CEO of Spanish low-cost carrier Vueling, took over the reins at BA in 2015, the ******* has stopped providing free food and drink to passengers in economy on short-haul flights. Even more, it’s been reported that BA is considering halting the sale of duty-free products on short flights, forcing passengers to do their shopping prior to takeoff at airports.