Which Airline Has The Widest Seats? The Answer May Surprise You

If you dread flying because of cramped seats and lack of legroom, you’re not alone. Many travelers want to know which airlines offer the roomiest seats so they can have a more comfortable flight. We’ve done the research to find which airlines have the widest seats so you can book smart and fly in comfort.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: JetBlue offers the widest economy seats of any major U.S. airline at 18.25 inches wide in their standard configuration.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss key factors that affect seat width on airlines including seat pitch, airline classes, aircraft types, and specific wide-seat options. We’ve compiled seat dimension data from 10 major U.S. airlines to name the carriers with the roomiest seats in economy, premium economy, and first class cabins.

We’ll also provide tips for getting the widest seats on your next flight.

What Determines Airplane Seat Width

When it comes to airplane seat width, several factors come into play. These include the seat pitch, airline classes, aircraft types, and airline seat width policies. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:

Seat pitch

The seat pitch refers to the distance between a point on one seat and the same point on the seat in front or behind it. While seat pitch primarily determines legroom, it also plays a role in seat width. Airlines with a greater seat pitch often have wider seats to accommodate passengers comfortably.

Airline classes

The class you choose to travel in can also affect the width of your seat. First class and business class seats generally offer more space and wider seats compared to economy class. These premium classes prioritize passenger comfort and provide more room to stretch out during the flight.

Aircraft types

Different aircraft types have varying seat widths. Some planes are designed to have wider seats to provide a more comfortable flying experience. For example, long-haul flights on wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777 or Airbus A350 tend to have wider seats compared to narrow-body planes like the Boeing 737.

Airline seat width policies

Each airline sets its own seat width policies based on a variety of factors, including passenger demand, cost considerations, and the overall design of their cabins. Some airlines prioritize wider seats as part of their commitment to passenger comfort, while others may offer narrower seats to accommodate more passengers on each flight.

It’s important to note that seat width can vary even within the same airline, depending on the specific aircraft and cabin configuration. Before booking a flight, it’s a good idea to check the airline’s website or use third-party websites that provide detailed information on seat dimensions and configurations, such as SeatGuru.com.

So, the next time you’re wondering which airline has the widest seats, remember that it’s not just one factor that determines seat width. Seat pitch, airline classes, aircraft types, and airline seat width policies all play a role in determining the width of the seats you’ll find on your flight.

Widest Economy Seats by Airline

JetBlue – 18.25 inches

When it comes to airline seats, JetBlue takes the lead with the widest economy seats in the industry. With a generous width of 18.25 inches, JetBlue ensures that passengers have ample space to stretch out and relax during their flight.

This extra width can make a significant difference in comfort, especially during long-haul flights.

Virgin America – 18 inches

Following closely behind JetBlue is Virgin America, offering economy seats with a width of 18 inches. With a reputation for providing a high-quality flying experience, Virgin America understands the importance of passenger comfort.

The wider seats allow passengers to enjoy their journey with more space and less restriction.

Alaska Airlines – 17 inches

Alaska Airlines offers economy seats with a width of 17 inches, making it a comfortable choice for travelers. While not as wide as JetBlue or Virgin America, Alaska Airlines still provides a decent amount of space for passengers to sit comfortably during their flight.

Spirit Airlines – 16.5 to 18 inches

Spirit Airlines offers a range of seat widths in their economy class, varying from 16.5 to 18 inches. Passengers can choose from different seat options, including Big Front Seats, which provide extra width and legroom for a more premium flying experience.

It’s worth noting that Spirit Airlines also offers the option to upgrade to wider seats for an additional fee.

United Airlines – 17 to 18 inches

United Airlines provides economy seats with a width that ranges from 17 to 18 inches. This range allows passengers to have a comfortable flying experience, with more space to relax and move around. United Airlines strives to ensure passenger satisfaction by offering a variety of seat options to cater to individual preferences.

American Airlines – 17 inches

American Airlines offers economy seats with a width of 17 inches. While not the widest in the industry, American Airlines still provides a comfortable seating arrangement for their passengers. With a focus on customer satisfaction, American Airlines aims to make the journey as pleasant as possible.

Delta Air Lines – 17 inches

Delta Air Lines also provides economy seats with a width of 17 inches. Although not the widest in the industry, Delta Air Lines maintains a high standard of comfort for their passengers. With a reputation for excellent service, Delta Air Lines ensures that passengers have a comfortable journey from takeoff to landing.

Southwest Airlines – 17 inches

Southwest Airlines offers economy seats with a width of 17 inches, providing a comfortable seating arrangement for their passengers. Southwest Airlines is known for its friendly customer service and affordability, making it a popular choice for travelers.

Frontier Airlines – 16.5 to 18 inches

Frontier Airlines provides a range of seat widths in their economy class, varying from 16.5 to 18 inches. Passengers can choose the seat option that suits their preferences, ensuring a comfortable flying experience.

Frontier Airlines aims to make air travel accessible and enjoyable for all passengers.

Allegiant Air – 16 to 18 inches

Allegiant Air offers a range of seat widths in their economy class, varying from 16 to 18 inches. Passengers can select the seat option that best fits their needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable flight.

Allegiant Air prioritizes customer satisfaction and aims to provide a pleasant travel experience.

Ways to Get Wider Seats in Economy

When it comes to flying in economy class, comfort can sometimes be a luxury. However, there are a few ways you can increase your chances of getting wider seats, even without upgrading to a higher class. Here are some tips to consider:

Pay for preferred/extra legroom seats

If you value extra space and legroom, it might be worth paying a little extra for preferred or extra legroom seats. Many airlines offer these seats for an additional fee, allowing you to enjoy a more comfortable journey.

While the width of the seats may not be significantly wider, the extra legroom can create a more spacious feel.

Book exit row seats

Exit row seats are known for their wider seats due to the additional space required for emergency exits. These seats are highly sought after by passengers who value comfort during their flight. However, keep in mind that exit row seats often come with certain restrictions, such as not being able to store personal items under the seat in front of you.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific policies of the airline you’re flying with.

Choose airlines with wider seats

Not all airlines have the same seat widths in economy class. Some airlines prioritize comfort and offer wider seats compared to others. For example, according to SeatGuru, a website that provides detailed information on airline seats, certain airlines like Singapore Airlines and Emirates are known for their wider economy class seats.

Researching and comparing different airlines can help you find the ones that prioritize passenger comfort.

Select larger aircraft when possible

The size of the aircraft can also play a role in seat width. Generally, larger aircraft tend to have wider seats compared to smaller planes. If you have the option to choose between different aircraft for your flight, consider selecting a larger one to increase your chances of having wider seats.

Websites like FlightStats provide information on the type of aircraft used for specific flights, allowing you to make an informed decision.

While these tips can help you increase your chances of getting wider seats in economy class, it’s important to note that availability may vary depending on the airline, flight, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to check with the airline directly or use seat comparison websites for the most up-to-date information.

Remember, a little extra comfort can go a long way in making your journey more enjoyable!

Widest Premium Economy Seats

Virgin Atlantic – 21 inches

When it comes to premium economy seats with ample space, Virgin Atlantic takes the lead with their impressive 21-inch wide seats. These seats are designed to provide maximum comfort and space for passengers who are willing to pay a little extra for a more luxurious travel experience.

With wider seats, passengers can enjoy a more relaxed journey and have enough room to stretch out and get comfortable during their flight.

Cathay Pacific – 19.3 inches

Cathay Pacific also offers premium economy seats that are wider than most other airlines. With a seat width of 19.3 inches, passengers can enjoy a more spacious seating arrangement and a comfortable journey.

Cathay Pacific is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail, and their wider seats are just another example of their commitment to passenger comfort.

Lufthansa – 19 inches

Lufthansa is another airline that offers premium economy seats with a generous width of 19 inches. Passengers flying with Lufthansa can enjoy a more comfortable and spacious seating arrangement, allowing them to relax and enjoy their flight.

Lufthansa is known for its excellent service and attention to detail, and their wider seats are a testament to their dedication to passenger comfort.

Air France – 18.5 inches

Air France offers premium economy seats with a width of 18.5 inches, providing passengers with a comfortable and spacious seating arrangement. With wider seats, passengers can have more room to move around and get comfortable during their flight.

Air France is known for its elegant and stylish service, and their wider seats are just another example of their commitment to passenger satisfaction.

American Airlines – 18.5 inches

American Airlines offers premium economy seats with a width of 18.5 inches. These wider seats provide passengers with a more spacious and comfortable seating arrangement, allowing them to relax and enjoy their flight.

American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and their wider seats are a testament to their commitment to passenger comfort and satisfaction.

Delta Air Lines – 18.5 inches

Delta Air Lines also offers premium economy seats with a width of 18.5 inches. These wider seats provide passengers with a more comfortable and spacious seating arrangement, allowing them to enjoy their flight with ease.

Delta Air Lines is known for its excellent service and customer satisfaction, and their wider seats are just another way they strive to enhance the passenger experience.

United Airlines – 17.3 to 19 inches

United Airlines offers premium economy seats with a width ranging from 17.3 to 19 inches, depending on the aircraft and specific seat configuration. While their seats may be slightly narrower compared to some other airlines, United Airlines still provides a comfortable and spacious seating arrangement for their premium economy passengers.

United Airlines is committed to providing a great travel experience for all passengers, and their wider seats contribute to that goal.

Widest First Class Seats

Singapore Airlines – 35 inches

When it comes to first class seats, Singapore Airlines takes the lead with an impressive width of 35 inches. Passengers can stretch out and enjoy a spacious and comfortable journey. The airline is known for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a premium flying experience.

Emirates – 27 inches

Emirates offers first class seats with a width of 27 inches, providing passengers with ample space to relax and unwind during their flight. With their renowned hospitality and state-of-the-art amenities, Emirates ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey for its first class passengers.

Etihad Airways – 28 inches

Etihad Airways boasts first class seats with a width of 28 inches, offering passengers a generous amount of personal space. Their luxurious cabins and attentive service make for a truly indulgent travel experience. Passengers can recline and enjoy the flight with utmost comfort.

Lufthansa – 24 inches

Lufthansa provides first class seats with a width of 24 inches, offering a comfortable and spacious environment for passengers. With their attention to detail and exceptional service, Lufthansa ensures a premium flying experience for those traveling in first class.

British Airways – 22 inches

British Airways offers first class seats with a width of 22 inches, providing passengers with a comfortable and relaxing journey. With their renowned British hospitality and excellent on-board amenities, British Airways ensures a pleasant and enjoyable travel experience.

American Airlines – 22 inches

American Airlines provides first class seats with a width of 22 inches, offering passengers a comfortable and enjoyable flight. With their extensive network and premium services, American Airlines caters to the needs of their first class passengers, ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey.

United Airlines – 22 inches

United Airlines offers first class seats with a width of 22 inches, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing journey for passengers. With their commitment to customer satisfaction and premium amenities, United Airlines provides a positive flying experience for their first class travelers.

Delta Air Lines – 21 inches

Delta Air Lines provides first class seats with a width of 21 inches, offering passengers a comfortable and cozy environment. With their exceptional service and commitment to passenger comfort, Delta Air Lines ensures a pleasant and enjoyable travel experience for first class passengers.

While Singapore Airlines takes the lead with the widest first class seats at 35 inches, each of the airlines mentioned above strives to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for their first class passengers.

Whether it’s the spaciousness of Singapore Airlines, the renowned hospitality of Emirates, or the attention to detail of Lufthansa, travelers can expect a premium flying experience with any of these airlines.

Conclusion

When booking your next flight, keep seat width in mind and choose an airline and aircraft that offers ample room, especially on long hauls. Airlines like JetBlue and Virgin America lead the industry for the widest economy seats.

For wide premium economy and first class seats across the oceans, look to Asian and Middle Eastern carriers like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates.

A little legwork when booking can ensure you fly comfortably even in economy. Consider width when selecting seats or paying for extra legroom. For the widest seats in the sky, aim for first class on airlines like Singapore and Emirates that provide a full lie-flat experience.