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BA to look more like low-cost carrier with removal of reclining seats

LONDON — British Airways continues to look for ways to cut costs, and next on the chopping block? Reclining seats.

According to Fox News, the airline 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 airline 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.

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