The Evolving Dynamics of Airline Seat Capacity and Safety Measures

While having seats going unoccupied is a popular move with passengers, it runs contrary to the basic economics of running an airline. If a flight is operating, the airline wants it as full as possible. However, we live in an era when distance from others is prized. Consequently, some airlines have taken seats out of use – generally a middle seat rather than a whole row. Nevertheless, many airlines have not adopted this measure. At least some of those airlines that have may not operate with reduced capacity for too much longer. For instance, Southwest, which currently blocks middle seats, noted that “operating an airline with an artificial capacity restriction is unsustainable long-term.”

Since March, the experience of flying has undergone several changes. The main ones include the necessity of wearing face masks through the airport and during the flight, along with revised boarding and food and beverage service processes.

Like more flexible terms on rebooking, cancellations, and refunds, empty seats cost airlines money at a time when they are experiencing unprecedented challenges. There is a balancing act that carriers are trying to hit, easing back on capacity restrictions while reassuring travelers that flying is a safe experience. Delta has committed to reduced capacity until January 2021. Other airlines that keep seats empty, such as Southwest and Alaska Airlines, have currently committed to this policy until November 30, at the end of the busy Thanksgiving travel period. This commitment may be extended, though confirmation is still pending.

Other carriers, including most European airlines, do not restrict flight capacity. Most airlines cite the International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s guidance, which “does not recommend restricting the use of the ‘middle seat’ to create social distancing while onboard aircraft.” Instead, they suggest various alternative measures.

American Airlines stated that “Even if middle seats are blocked, passengers are not six feet from the person across the aisle or the person seated in front or behind them.” American Airlines, like others, has extensive information available about its focus on cleanliness onboard, including High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which regularly refresh the air supply. I flew British Airways twice this summer, both times with strangers seated next to me on mostly full flights.

Finding Strategies for Empty Seats

If having no one next to you is important, old-school hacks for keeping a seat free are worth considering. By sitting in an aisle or window seat near the back of the plane, you maximize your chances of no one wanting a middle seat that far back. Moreover, targeting earlier or later flights during the day may lead to quieter travel times, allowing the possibility of moving elsewhere in the cabin. However, it is important to note that if you opt for this, airlines will often request that you stay in your assigned seat for tracing purposes. Alternatively, if you wish to guarantee extra space, Jetblue is one airline that offers the option to reserve empty seats adjacent to your traveling party.