Even though we try and minimize our time in the back of the plane, there are times when you inevitably fly in economy class.
This can be a big letdown on long flights, but there are some airlines that are improving the economy class experience.
JAL 787-8
JAL operates its 787-8 aircraft on a number of medium and long-haul routes. The plane features seats with 33-inches of pitch arranged in a 3-4-3 configuration with almost 19 inches of width, making it one of the most spacious configurations in the sky.
Each seat has a 10.6-inch touch screen for entertainment, USB ports, and AC power. Wi-Fi is available too at a reasonable price so you can stay productive in the sky without breaking the bank.
Singapore Airlines new A380 and 787-10
Singapore Airlines is well regarded as having the best economy class in the sky. On its new A380 and 787-10 aircraft, all seats have a six-way adjustable headrest, 11-inch HD video displays in every seat, a USB port for charging, and a power plug for laptops, and in-seat smartphone stowage.
But, more importantly, the plane has 32-inches of pitch. This is more than the 30-inch average in economy class, making your jaunts around Asia more comfortable than ever in the back of the plane.
You’ll find Singapore Airlines’ 787-10 on medium haul flights to Osaka in the coming year. Singapore’s new A380 is deployed on its Sydney route and some flights to London-Heathrow and Hong Kong.
Emirates 777 and A380
Emirates has an insane new first class product on its 777, but its economy class isn’t half-bad either.
The airline’s entire fleet is made up for A380 and 777 aircraft. All passengers are greeted with an amenity kit upon boarding, have a huge entertainment library to choose from, and their jets range from 32 to 34 inches of pitch depending on aircraft and seat selection.
For those that want to stay productive, nearly all Emirates flights have on-board Wi-Fi. In our experience, the Wi-Fi works well but can get pricey on long flights and is slow at times.
ANA All Nippon Airlines 777
ANA’s 777-300ER aircraft are all equipped with hard-back seats. This means that the seat reclines into itself, so there’s no worrying about the passenger in front of you reclining into your laptop on long flights.
Speaking of laptop, each economy seat has in-seat USB and AC power, so you can stay productive on the go. Most ANA aircraft have international Wi-Fi too.
Each of ANA’s seats have an insane 34 inches of pitch, so you’ll be comfortable on those long jaunts across the Pacific. Even cooler, many of its 777 aircraft have built-in footrests, making it even more comfortable to sleep when you’re in the sky.
Strongly consider picking an ANA flight on your next jaunt to Japan—especially if you’re on a United codeshare.
Option to Europe: British Airways
Unfortunately, most options to Europe are lackluster.
But British Airways flies some of above the rest for sleeping.
Seats have a slightly above average pitch of 31-inches and 17.5-inches of width. Unfortunately, seats on most British Airways aircraft do not have AC power, but do have innovative headrests that fold down rather than in, making for a more comfortable sleeping position.
US Domestic Airlines
But what about the times when you need to fly domestically in the U.S.?
Don’t look to the big three, instead, try one of these two innovative options from the smaller players in the domestic market.
JetBlue E190, A320, A321
JetBlue’s entire fleet has free Wi-Fi, complimentary snacks, and in-seat TVs with free live television no matter how short the flight. Its E190 and A321 aircraft have 32 inches of pitch, and its A320 has a whopping 34.
Upgrade to Even More Space and you’ll have up to 41 inches of pitch.
These planes fly all of JetBlue’s routes, so it’s not hard to find a good economy experience.
This is especially important on long-haul transcontinental flights where you’re stuck on a domestic jet for over five hours.
Ex-Virgin America Alaska Airlines A320
Fly this configuration while you still can. All ex-Virgin America A320s have posh leather seats with 32-inches of pitch.
Even cooler, you can order food and drink from your seat, have tons of entertainment options, and cool mood lighting.
We’re not sure of this configuration’s fate—there’s good chance it could be phased out and replaced by standard Alaska Airlines economy class. However, look for an A320 operated flight on your next Alaska Airlines flight and enjoy it while you can. It’s undoubtedly the best domestic economy class product.
Bottom Line on Best Economy Seats
When flying economy, do your research to find the best airline on your route. This can make the difference between showing up to your destination rested or aching due to lack of legroom. Keep the jets on this list in mind when booking your next trip abroad.
