The world’s best economy seats revealed – with one airline winning for the sixth year running

Ample legroom and headrests that are actually comfortable aren’t only perks of flying in business or first class. Plenty of airlines have ensured that even passengers travelling on the most budget airfares enjoy comfortable seats – and now, thanks to Skytrax, we know which ones offer the best bang for your buck. 

The world airline and airport star rating platform has assessed factors such as seat pitch (which basically translates to legroom – the distance between seat rows), headrest comfort and overall design to decipher which airline offers the very best economy seats out there.

The winning operator, Japan Airlines, has claimed the crown for the sixth consecutive year. According to the Independent, standard economy seat pitch tends to be between 30 and 32 inches (76-81 cm), but this operator’s planes have a generous 34 inches. 

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Not only that, but the planes are organised in a roomier 2-4-2 row configuration (as opposed to the often tight squeeze of 3-3-3). Economy passengers also have 13-inch screens, adjustable headrests, power outlets and – get this – cup holders. 

In second place was Cathay Pacific (which won the overall best economy class), and in third was Korean Air. Asian airlines actually completely dominated the top 10, claiming eight places – scroll on to have a look. 

These are the 10 airlines with the best economy seats in the world 

1. Japan Airlines
2. Cathay Pacific Airways
3. Korean Air
4. Singapore Airlines
5. Qatar Airways
6. ANA All Nippon Airways
7. Emirates
8. STARLUX Airlines
9. China Airlines
10. Malaysia Airlines

For more information and a look at other categories, head to the Skytrax official website. 

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