How Big Are American Airline Seats?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

When it comes to air travel, one of the most important factors for passengers is the size of the seats. For those taking domestic flights in the United States, the question of how big American airline seats are is a common one. While the answer may seem straightforward, there are a variety of factors that can impact the size and comfort of these seats.

From the type of aircraft being used to the airline itself, there are several variables that can impact the size and comfort of American airline seats. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or simply planning your next vacation, understanding the size of these seats is an important part of ensuring a comfortable flight. So, let’s dive into the world of American airline seats and explore just how big they really are.

How Big Are American Airline Seats?

How Big Are American Airline Seats? An In-Depth Look

Understanding Seat Sizes on American Airlines

American Airlines, like most airlines, offers different seat sizes depending on the class of service you choose. The size of the seats also depends on the aircraft type. American Airlines typically flies Boeing and Airbus planes. The seat width and pitch can vary depending on the specific type of aircraft.

For economy class, American Airlines offers a seat width of 16.2 to 18 inches and a pitch of 30 to 32 inches. The pitch is the distance between a point on one seat and the same point on the seat in front of it. The economy seats on American Airlines are generally narrower than those on other airlines. However, American Airlines recently announced that it will be adding more legroom to its economy seats on some of its planes.

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The main cabin extra seats on American Airlines offer a seat width of 17.2 to 18.5 inches and a pitch of 34 to 36 inches. These seats are located in the first few rows of the economy class cabin and offer more legroom than regular economy seats. They are available for purchase or can be selected by elite status members or customers who have purchased certain fares.

Comparing American Airlines Seat Sizes to Other Airlines

When compared to other airlines, American Airlines’ economy seats are generally narrower. For instance, Delta Air Lines offers economy seats with a width of 17.2 to 18.6 inches and a pitch of 30 to 32 inches. On the other hand, United Airlines offers economy seats with a width of 17.3 to 18.1 inches and a pitch of 31 to 32 inches.

However, American Airlines’ main cabin extra seats offer more legroom than Delta’s and United’s equivalent seats. Delta’s Comfort+ seats offer a width of 17.2 to 18.5 inches and a pitch of 34 to 36 inches. United’s Economy Plus seats offer a width of 17.3 to 18.1 inches and a pitch of 35 to 37 inches.

The Benefits of Upgrading to Main Cabin Extra Seats

Upgrading to American Airlines’ main cabin extra seats can provide several benefits. These seats offer more legroom, which can make a long flight more comfortable. Additionally, main cabin extra seats are typically located in the front of the economy cabin, which can allow for quicker boarding and disembarking.

Another benefit of upgrading to main cabin extra seats is that they come with priority boarding. This can be especially helpful if you have a tight connection or need extra time to stow your carry-on luggage.

The Drawbacks of Upgrading to Main Cabin Extra Seats

While main cabin extra seats offer several benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the main drawbacks is the cost. Main cabin extra seats can be significantly more expensive than regular economy seats, especially if they are purchased separately.

Another drawback is that the main cabin extra seats are usually located near the front of the cabin, which means that they may not be available if you book your flight at the last minute. Additionally, main cabin extra seats are not available on all American Airlines flights.

Conclusion

In summary, American Airlines offers varying seat sizes depending on the class of service and aircraft type. While the economy seats are generally narrower than other airlines, American Airlines’ main cabin extra seats offer more legroom and several benefits. However, upgrading to main cabin extra seats can be costly, and they may not be available on all flights. It is important to carefully consider your options and needs when choosing a seat on American Airlines.

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Airline Economy Seat Width Economy Seat Pitch Main Cabin Extra Seat Width Main Cabin Extra Seat Pitch
American Airlines 16.2 to 18 inches 30 to 32 inches 17.2 to 18.5 inches 34 to 36 inches
Delta Air Lines 17.2 to 18.6 inches 30 to 32 inches 17.2 to 18.5 inches 34 to 36 inches
United Airlines 17.3 to 18.1 inches 31 to 32 inches 17.3 to 18.1 inches 35 to 37 inches

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about American airline seats:

What is the standard size of American airline seats?

American airline seats vary in size depending on the plane and the airline. However, the average seat width is around 17 inches, and the average seat pitch (the distance between the back of one seat and the back of the seat in front of it) is around 31 inches. Some airlines have wider seats and more legroom in certain classes, such as premium economy or business class.

It’s always a good idea to check the airline’s website or contact them directly to find out the exact measurements of their seats before you book your flight.

Do American airlines offer larger seats for passengers who need more space?

Yes, many airlines offer larger seats or seats with more legroom for passengers who need it. These seats may be available for purchase at an additional cost, or they may be reserved for passengers with disabilities or medical conditions. Some airlines also offer seats with extra space in certain rows or near the emergency exits, although these seats may come with additional restrictions or requirements.

If you need a larger or more comfortable seat, be sure to check with the airline before you book your flight to see what options are available.

Are American airline seats getting smaller over time?

There has been some concern in recent years that airline seats are getting smaller, particularly in economy class. While it’s true that some airlines have reduced the size of their seats in order to fit more passengers on each plane, others have actually increased the size of their seats or added more legroom. It really depends on the airline and the specific plane you’re flying on.

If you’re concerned about the size of your seat, be sure to check with the airline before you book your flight to find out the exact measurements and see if there are any options for larger or more comfortable seats.

Can I bring my own seat cushion or back support on an American airline flight?

Yes, most airlines allow passengers to bring their own seat cushions or back supports on flights. However, there may be restrictions on the size or type of cushion you can bring, so it’s a good idea to check with the airline before you pack it. Additionally, some airlines may provide cushions or supports for passengers upon request, so it’s worth asking if this is an option.

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Keep in mind that any items you bring on board the plane will count towards your carry-on allowance, so be sure to check the airline’s baggage policy to avoid any additional fees.

What can I do to make my American airline seat more comfortable?

There are several things you can do to make your airline seat more comfortable, even if it’s a standard economy seat. Some tips include bringing your own neck pillow or eye mask, wearing comfortable clothing, stretching periodically throughout the flight, and choosing an aisle seat for easier access to the restroom and cabin crew. You can also try adjusting the seat back, footrest, and headrest to find a more comfortable position.

If you have specific needs or concerns, such as back pain or a medical condition, be sure to notify the airline before your flight to see what accommodations they can make.

What’s the Extra in Main Cabin on American Airlines


In conclusion, the size of American airline seats is a hotly debated topic among travelers. While some airlines have made efforts to increase seat width and legroom, others have opted for tighter configurations to accommodate more passengers. It is important for travelers to research the seat dimensions of their chosen airline before booking a flight to ensure a comfortable journey.

It is clear that the size of American airline seats is influenced by a number of factors, including the type of aircraft, the airline’s economic goals, and the preferences of passengers. However, with the rise of budget airlines and the ongoing demand for affordable air travel, it remains to be seen if larger seats will become the norm in the industry.

Ultimately, whether or not American airline seats are big enough is a matter of personal preference. While some travelers may prioritize comfort and pay extra for wider seats, others may be willing to sacrifice space in exchange for a lower ticket price. Regardless of individual preferences, it is important for airlines to continue to explore ways to improve the passenger experience, including seat size and comfort.

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