EasyJet is to trial reserved seating on selected routes from next spring. Passengers will be allocated a specific seat on the trial flights.
“EasyJet expects demand for certain seats such as the front row seats and seats with extra leg room like those on the over wing exit rows,” a statement said. “Those passengers who wish to guarantee one of these seats – or any other they prefer – will be able to purchase them in advance.”
The airline said prices will “stay true to EasyJet’s commitment to low fares” but did not outline the costs to passengers. “Passengers on the same booking who have not pre-selected a seat will be allocated seats next to each other where possible,” it added.
EasyJet currently operates an unreserved system and offers “speedy boarding” for an additional charge.
Chief executive Carolyn McCall said: “This is another example of EasyJet trying to do all it can to make travel easy and affordable for our passengers. We look forward to seeing how our passengers respond and how the trial works.
“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.”