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Five airlines set new standards for long-haul economy class comfort

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Five airlines set new standards for long-haul economy class comfort
Policy
Webp goh
Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer | Singapore Airlines

In recent years, several airlines have made significant improvements to their long-haul economy class seats, aiming to enhance passenger comfort and overall travel experience. Advances in aircraft technology and cabin design have enabled carriers to offer better seating options without compromising profitability.

Singapore Airlines has upgraded its economy class seats on newer widebody aircraft such as the Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787-10. These seats provide 32 inches of pitch and are nearly 19 inches wide, with features like six-way adjustable headrests. The airline's KrisWorld entertainment system offers a variety of movies, television shows, music, and games via touchscreen monitors with USB or power sockets. Singapore Airlines also emphasizes quality service, providing complimentary meals and beverages with dietary accommodations.

Qatar Airways has equipped most of its widebody fleet with slim seats that have a pitch of 31–32 inches and a width of about 18.5 inches. Despite being slimmer, these seats include more padding for added comfort. The airline's OryxOne in-flight entertainment system is available on many aircraft, offering seat-back screens and charging ports. Qatar Airways also provides multiple-course meals and additional amenities such as blankets and pillows on long-haul flights.

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Japan Airlines stands out for its SkyWider economy seat, which measures between 18.5 to 19 inches in width and offers a pitch of 33 inches—larger than many competitors’ options. The SkyWider seat includes extra padding, adjustable headrests, and well-designed armrests with optimized tray tables. Passengers can access personal entertainment screens with an extensive content library and enjoy meals curated by Japanese chefs through partnerships with culinary competitions and restaurants. In addition to meal services, amenity items like slippers and eye masks are provided.

All Nippon Airways (ANA) has upgraded cabins on long-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner to feature seats with a pitch of 33 to 34 inches and widths ranging from 17 to 18 inches. ANA’s economy class includes personal touchscreen monitors for entertainment on lengthy routes including those between Japan and destinations like Mexico City or New York City. Seats are equipped with USB ports, power outlets, adjustable headrests, and the airline is planning further upgrades in ergonomics by 2026.

Cathay Pacific Airways was recognized at the Skytrax World Airline Awards for having the best economy class airline in 2025, as well as ranking second for both best seat design and catering in this category. Cathay Pacific’s economy seats offer a pitch of around 32 inches with an approximate width of 18 inches, ergonomic design elements such as adjustable headrests, large touchscreen monitors measuring up to 11.6 inches, device shelving, USB charging ports, power outlets, multi-course meal options featuring various cuisines, generous baggage allowances even for economy passengers on international routes.

These airlines continue to compete not only through pricing but also by improving the basic flying experience for long-haul travelers.

Organizations Included in this History
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