While I love redeeming my points and miles for lie-flat seats on long-haul flights, especially overnight flights, I’ve flown my fair share of flights in the “back of the bus.”
There isn’t nearly as much innovation in economy-class seating as those fancy business- and first-class suites with their sliding doors and in-seat minibars, but here’s how I choose the best economy-class seats in the sky:
Legroom is king: Use detailed seatmaps (like those on AeroLopa) to select seats with at least 32 inches of legroom. Japanese carriers All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines lead the pack with 33 to 34 inches on most long-haul aircraft.
The A330 is a gem: I always prefer wide-body aircraft for a feeling of more space, but the Airbus A330 is my favorite due to its 2-4-2 layout of economy-class seats. This ratio is ideal for both couples and families to sit together without the odd-numbered 3-3-3 layouts on Dreamliners and A350 aircraft.
Newer aircraft often have better tech: When American Airlines recently started flying its new Boeing 787-9 aircraft with fancy new Flagship Suites, the economy-class passengers received an upgrade too. While the seat dimensions remain the same, Main Cabin passengers can now enjoy a 3-inch-larger seatback screen, as well as USB-C charging and Bluetooth connectivity.
Distract yourself with food: I recommend Turkish Airlines Boeing 777 flights both because the cuisine is delicious, thanks to the carrier’s partnership with award-winning caterer Do & Co, and the spacious nine-across cabin in economy (most airlines squeeze in a 10th seat on this aircraft). Avoid the Turkish Airlines A350, though, as this has a much tighter economy cabin.
If in doubt, choose a world-class airline: If poring over seat maps or hunting down new technology is too complex for your next trip, stick with a winning carrier. I’ve flown Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways and Emirates countless times in all cabins and have never had a bad experience on any of them, even all the way in the back.
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American Airlines is shifting to free Wi-Fi for members of its AAdvantage loyalty program, following similar moves by competitors in the airline industry.
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