Airline legroom is essential for a comfortable flight, not merely a perk. Knowing which airlines provide that valuable extra inch of space can make a world of difference whether you’re a frequent flier logging miles or an occasional traveler going on a vacation. Nobody likes being squished into a little space, with their knees crushed against the seat before them, while they anxiously await touchdown.
Legroom aboard planes varies greatly, which can be a pain for regular fliers. A recent study rated the most popular routes of different airlines according to the amount of legroom offered on each route, from most to least. Upgraded Points found that JetBlue came out on top, with Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines tied for last place.
The Clear Leaders in Legroom
1. JetBlue Airways
Taking the crown with an impressive average seat pitch of 32.3 inches, JetBlue’s fleet is up-to-date. Passengers can rest easy on board the roomy Airbus A320 and A321 variants. Rest assured, JetBlue has you covered if you’re seeking additional space to move around.
2. Southwest Airlines
Following closely is Southwest, with around 32 inches of room. Southwest Airlines is well-known for its customer-friendly policies, such as offering free checked bags and eliminating change costs. Plus, the airline places a premium on passenger comfort, particularly during longer flights.
Tied for Third Place
3. Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines
Both carriers provide an ample 31.8 inches of legroom, tying them for third place. Traveling comfortably while still having many options is possible, as shown by Delta’s vast international destinations and Alaska’s network across the West Coast.
Not Far Behind
4. American Airlines
American Airlines offers a seat pitch of 31 inches. Even though it isn’t the leader, passengers can still enjoy a decent amount of legroom.
Choose Wisely for a Comfortable Journey
Consider these legroom rankings when selecting your next flight, regardless of whether it’s a cross-country journey or a short hop. Just a little additional room will make a world of difference when it comes to enjoying your trip.
The complete ranking of airline seat legroom is as follows:
- JetBlue – 32.3 inches
- Southwest Airlines – 32 inches
- Alaska Airlines/Delta Air Lines (Tie) – 31.8 inches
- American Airlines – 31 inches
- United Airlines – 30.2 inches
- Hawaiian Airlines – 30.1 inches
- Frontier Airlines/Spirit Airlines (Tie) – 28