Airlines are charging more for basic seat perks like legroom and Wi-Fi, turning flights into fee-laden experiences.

Airlines are expanding paid seat options and ancillary fees, charging passengers for legroom, priority boarding, overhead bin access, and even reclining seats, as seen with WestJet and Qantas’ upcoming Economy Plus. These changes reflect a broader industry shift toward maximizing revenue per seat, with once-included amenities like Wi-Fi, baggage allowances, and blankets now frequently sold separately. While airlines frame these offerings as enhancing choice, critics argue they complicate travel and exploit passenger willingness to pay for basic comfort, turning flights into a maze of fees and transactions.