What is the average legroom on this airline?

Understanding Airline Legroom

When it comes to traveling on airplanes, one key factor that affects passengers' comfort is the legroom. The term, often referred to as 'pitch', is the distance between a spot on one seat and the similar spot on the seat in front.

Legroom varies from one airline to another, depending on the design of the aircraft and the seating configuration chosen by the airline. But on average, the pitch on most mainstream airlines for economy class seating tends to fall between 31 to 33 inches.

The Shift in Airlines' Approach

In recent years, however, some airlines have been decreasing legroom in order to fit more seats and thus increase their revenues. Despite the outcry from some passengers, these changes have been implemented by several airlines, reducing the pitch to as little as 28 inches in economy class.

Conversely, more premium airlines or cabin classes often provide more legroom. Business and first-class sections usually offer greater room, with a pitch of 60 inches or more, providing passengers increased comfort during their journey.

The Effect of Airline Legroom on Passengers

Legroom is more than just a measure of comfort. For long flights, significantly reduced legroom can lead to conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of the body, typically the leg, and can prove serious if not treated.

This risk, coupled with the additional comfort offered by increased legroom, often leads passengers to think about legroom when choosing which airline to fly. This is especially true for taller passengers, who naturally require more space.

Legroom - An Influential Factor

We should remember that while legroom is certainly an important determinant of comfort in the air, it is not the only factor. Aspects such as seat width, recline feature, and the service from airline staff also play a crucial role in shaping the passenger's overall experience.

Nonetheless, legroom is a factor that continues to influence purchasing decisions among passengers. So much so that many are willing to pay a premium for seats with more space. Ultimately, it's about a balance between comfort and cost.