The Economics of Comfort: Why Legroom in Airplane Seats Has Changed Over Time

💺Airplane seats have become more cramped over time due to the unbundling of services and the desire to maximize revenue.

📈Airlines have added more seats and reduced legroom to increase revenue, leading to discomfort for passengers.

👨‍👨‍👦‍👦Different passengers have different legroom experiences based on their height and seat position.

💰Charging extra for additional legroom has become a common practice, allowing airlines to generate more revenue.

📏The lack of regulations on minimum seat dimensions gives airlines the flexibility to offer different seat options.

Why have airplane seats become more cramped over time?

—Airplane seats have become more cramped over time due to the unbundling of services and the desire to maximize revenue. Airlines have added more seats and reduced legroom, leading to discomfort for passengers.

Do all passengers have the same legroom experience?

—No, different passengers have different legroom experiences based on their height and seat position. Taller passengers may find it more challenging to fit comfortably in cramped seats.

Why do airlines charge extra for additional legroom?

—Charging extra for additional legroom has become a common practice for airlines. It allows them to generate more revenue by offering a higher level of comfort to passengers who are willing to pay for it.

Is there any regulation on minimum seat dimensions?

—Currently, there are no regulations on minimum seat dimensions. This lack of regulation gives airlines the flexibility to offer different seat options and tailor their pricing accordingly.

Will there be any changes in the future to improve legroom in airplane seats?

—There have been efforts to introduce regulations on minimum seat dimensions, but as of now, no significant changes have been implemented. The comfort and legroom in airplane seats still come at a cost.

00:04Airplane seats have become more cramped over time due to the unbundling of services and the desire to maximize revenue.

03:51Airlines have unbundle services and charge extra for additional legroom, allowing them to generate more revenue.

05:56The affordability of domestic flights has improved compared to the past, thanks to innovations like thinner seats.

07:56Efforts have been made to introduce regulations on minimum seat dimensions, but no significant changes have been implemented so far.