Tall passengers (or those looking to stretch their legs) may want to book Etihad's Economy Space option, which offers up to 5 inches of extra legroom. If legroom is important, research what types of aircraft different airlines fly on your chosen routes before booking and pay for the extra space.
When it comes to seat width, many luggage racks offer a width of 18 inches (45.7 centimeters). Some notable aircraft even have 19 inches (48.3 centimeters) – including Singapore Airlines' A380 and 777-300ER and Japan Airlines' 787-9.
Air New Zealand's Skycouch.
Nostalgics will love that a report from the American non-profit organization Consumers Union shows that in 1985, no American airline had a seat narrower than 19 inches. Today, a number of major airlines, including Qantas, United Airlines, Qatar and ANA, offer seats measuring 17.5 inches (44.4 centimeters), or slightly smaller on some aircraft types.
The increasingly narrow seats have been the subject of some legal challenges on safety grounds. In 2018, American organization FlyersRights unsuccessfully challenged the cramped conditions, claiming they were likely to hinder an emergency evacuation.
If you're planning on drinking to economic heaven, that's far better news. Most full-service airlines, including Emirates, Qantas, Qatar, Singapore Airlines and Etihad, offer free beer and wine on international flights. Air France even offers free champagne in all cabin classes – the label changes every few months, but in January this year, economy class received Vranken Heidsieck Monopole Silver.
More and more airlines are limiting selection and availability. For example, United Airlines only offers free beer and wine on certain routes.
When it comes to food, Qatar Airways seems to be the darling of the airline rankings community at the moment, with reviewers praising the catering and customer service.
If movies are your thing, Cathay Pacific took top honors from Skytrax in 2023 for its entertainment system and selection. Cathay's economy class features an 11.6-centimeter HD touchscreen and an extensive library of Asian and Western films and TV boxsets, as well as a Bluetooth headphone connection so you can bring your favorite headset.
Will economy class ever be enjoyable? Unlikely. But a little homework can go a long way.
The March issue of AFR Magazine – featuring the launch issue of Highflyer magazine – is published by The Australian Financial Review on Friday 23 February. Follow AFR Mag on Instagram.
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