The Great Seat Recline Debate: Will Airlines Say Goodbye to Personal Space on Flights?
In recent years, the amount of personal space on flights has decreased dramatically, with the average seat recline going from four inches to just two inches. This has led to a growing debate about whether reclining seats are worth the extra weight they add to planes and the maintenance costs associated with them.
William McGee, a senior fellow for aviation and travel at the American Economic Liberties Project, believes that airlines will continue to eliminate reclining seats in favor of lighter alternatives. He says that airlines are focused on reducing weight onboard due to the high cost of jet fuel and maintenance.
One alternative that many airlines are considering is pre-reclined seats that do not move but are set at a deeper angle. These seats could become more common among low-cost carriers in the future, as they offer passengers more space without adding extra weight or requiring additional maintenance.
While some economy passengers may be disappointed by this change, many others may appreciate not having to deal with the inconveniences associated with reclining seats, such as broken laptops and spilled beverages. Ultimately, it’s up to each individual airline to decide what works best for their business model and their customers.
