Well if merchandising is all about differentiation, then Spirit Airlines is making its mark. Its latest cost-saving mood? Airline seats which don’t recline.
The airline introduced “pre-reclined” seats on two new Airbus 320 aircraft over the last few weeks, with two similarly equipped planes scheduled to go into service this summer,” according to SunSentinel.com.
The seats, which are fixed in a partially reclined position, are lighter than the airline’s other seats so the carrier saves money on fuel costs.
Spirit caused a stir when it announced its intent to charge passengers up to $45 for carry-on bags.
However, no worries about the pre-reclined seats.
Perhaps Spirit will concoct an opportunity to implement a fee for passengers who wish to sit in reclining seats.
Take off and Landing?
Take off and landing? They are included in the fare, as far as I know:)
@dennis – methinks @g23 is referring to the traditional method of having seats in the upright position for take off and landing.
It is a misconception to think that takeoff and landing are included in airfares. The only thing included is the seat. If you want to take off and land you have to pay the fuel surcharge. It’s like buying a car – you can buy it but it won’t go anywhere unless you pay for the fuel.
Kevin: I knew what he was saying. My reply was meant to be taken lightly, given how everything is getting unbundled. I don’t think the position of the reclined seats is an issue. Spirit has been operating a couple of planes with such seats for a few weeks. And, it’s my understanding that Allegiant Air has had pre-reclined seats for awhile.
The word “pre-reclined” makes me want to punch someone. Probably the passenger in front of me, but I can’t say for sure, it might be someone in Spirit’s marketing department.
Is there data that compares Spirit’s seat pitch with that of the standard reclined coach seat? Just curious.
Pam: The seat pitch is 28″. I don’t know how that compares precisely with the seat pitch on other Spririt flights. Yes, pre-reclined seats reminds me of pre-owned, ie used — cars. I share your sentiments about the phrase.