Airlines reduce seat sizes, increasing passenger discomfort

Airlines are facing criticism for reducing seat sizes in economy class. Many passengers are uncomfortable with the decreasing legroom and narrower seats. This trend appears driven by airlines looking to increase their profits. Comparing modern flights to early aviation, the author notes that even the Wright brothers had more legroom. However, current airlines are packing in more passengers to maximize earnings. Virgin Atlantic has been highlighted as having some of the smallest economy seats. Seat pitch, the distance between headrests, measures the legroom available. According to consumer reports, Virginia Atlantic provides 30-31 inches of pitch. In contrast, the most spacious airlines, Emirates and Singapore Airlines, offer 32-34 inches, which is still not very generous. Seat widths are also shrinking, with some airlines introducing "slimline" seats that measure just 17 inches wide. This poses a challenge as many people are getting larger. Some airlines suggest that plus-size passengers buy two seats to accommodate their size. The overall experience of flying is often unpleasant. Passengers must arrive early, wait in lines, and endure cramped seating. Many are questioning whether it is worth flying at all, given climate concerns. Traveling by train is suggested as a more comfortable and eco-friendly option.