Economy Class Flights

The dreaded economy class flight. We have an image of miniscule seats, crowded aisles, rude flight attendants and a stuffy, miserable journey. But, recent years have shown a shift in economy standards. Newer airlines have started flying all-economy aircraft. They then pass small improvements along to all passengers: slightly wider seats or additional inches of legroom.

Even older airlines have started offering amenities to economy class travelers from individual TVs to free movies and satellite radio. Airlines on the cutting edge are beginning to offer in-flight Internet availability (for a nominal fee).

SeatGuru.com and other online sites are a great place to find information on seat width and reclining angles for the economy seats of each airline. The best seats are often the emergency exit row (be prepared to assist in an emergency; children are generally prohibited) and the first row of the cabin. The least favorable seats tend to include the row directly in front of the emergency exit row with seatbacks that do not recline fully and the last row of the plane due to the chaos of being near the restrooms and flight-attendant galley.

Though economy class flights may not be the lap of indulgence you’ll find in upper class cabins, airlines are taking extra steps to help make your experience a positive one.

As always, a little planning on your part can do wonders for your comfort and experience. Bring snacks with you, pack plenty of reading material and consider a deck of cards, puzzles and laptops, DVD players and portable music devices. A neck pillow is a great way to give your head and neck additional support if you would like to sleep.

Overall, economy class flights can be pleasant, affordable and get you to your destination quickly and efficiently.