Being crammed into a plane seat can be an uncomfortable experience but some airlines offer precious extra space
While flying off on holiday, most people know what the plane journey can be less than comfortable as you’re crammed onto the aircraft inches from the passenger next to you. It is a price we pay to get to our destination, of course.
But the airlines with the widest seats have been named and it could mean precious extra space allowing you to relax. Those carriers with the narrowest seats are also on the list so you can make an informed choice when booking.
Consumer bible Which? has calculated which airlines have the largest seats so you can make sure you get the most bang for your buck.
While there isn’t much in it when it comes to short haul flights, the seat width (the distance between each armrest) is between 17 and 18 inches depending on which airline.
But that extra inch can make all the difference when you’re sat there for several hours.
The research found that the airlines with the widest economy seats are Wizz Air, TAP Portugal, EasyJet and Lufthansa, all with widths of 18 inches, reports The Express.
That means the airlines with the smallest seat widths are British Airways, Jet2, KLM, Norwegian, Ryanair, Tui and Aer Lingus, which are all tied with 17 inches. Meanwhile, Vueling is in the middle with 17.5 inches.
There are a couple of tricks to try if you want to maximise your personal space without spending extra money on budget flights.
Booking the bulkead is one option which can give more legroom to stretch out. These are the seats directly behind the walls, curtains or screens which section off the plane. They have no seats in front so you’ll be able to stretch your legs all the way out.
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The one downside to the extra leg room is that these can be slightly narrower if tray tables are stored in the armrest.
Another hack is to book a seat to the rear of the plane where it tapers.
This can sometimes mean fewer seats in a row – but of course, you might end up next to the toilet queue which can be a little disruptive.
If you are on a flight which has already taken off and you notice extra empty seats, you can always politely ask the flight attendant if it would be possible to move.
Remember, if you don’t ask, you don’t get – and as long as you’re polite there is a chance they will grant your wish.
If you have additional needs that would benefit from more space, such as being tall or pregnant, you’ve got a better of being moved to a more spacious spot.
