CN Traveler’s best economy cabins for international flights
What do those with first hand experience say about this list?
JetBlue is #1??? Over Singapore, Cathay Pacific and Emirates? I'd love to know what criteria they used for that. Things must have really changed.
The article seems to focus mainly on seat pitch and seat width.
I don't think a narrow body plane would be #1 on my list for a transatlantic flight.
I was surprised how ANA (#3) main cabin was so much better than Delta main cabin. Few years ago, I ended up in a middle seat at ANA when my Delta flight from Tokyo to Seattle got cancelled (after 3 hours on the plane stuck on the runaway). I had comfort+ seats. I also had SEA-SFO on my itinerary.
The only way out was flying stand-by on ANA directly to SFO later that day, or waiting 2 days for another Delta flight since everything was packed. I was the last one to board the ANA flight and ended up arriving about the same time as my original itinerary. At that point, I was just happy to be on my way home (I had a little child and work commitments).
The seat was surprisingly good. I don't remember the airplane model but I had enough leg room and didn't feel too trapped in the middle seat. The food was also not bad - maybe I was just so tired given the stress.
I flew Japan Airlines (#2) in 2008 - it was the only time I flew on a jumbo double-decker (and on the second floor!). It was not Airbus but I don't remember plane model. I was sick and don't remember much other than how cool it was to go up a level inside a plane (economy seat). I was connecting in Tokyo from JFK on my way to the Philippines for work.
The "BEST" for me would be the least expensive. But getting past that, I flew an American 787 Dreamliner from Budapest to Philidelphia a month ago. I few the second from the lowest economy (I think there were 4 levels). It was about the nicest ride I have ever had. lots of knee room; but being only 6 foot even tight pitches dont bother me, but this was nice. Food and service inhaled deeply. For good food, service, respect from the staff, dignity ... Turkish Air is about the best in this part of the world.
I have flown ANA in every cabin on a variety of planes (787 to a turboprop) and rate them very highly. Decent legroom in economy, restrooms with washlets (Japanese style toilets) and great flight attendants. Planes, including the restrooms, are always clean. The only drawback for some might be the limited food options. Food has always been good but choices, even in business class, are limited.
Have only flown JAL on a domestic flight in Japan but have a few friends who have flown them internationally and give high marks to the A350.
Delta's economy on the 767 can be nice in the planes with the older style seats which are actually well padded and reasonably comfortable. Though it has been a while since I flew with Delta.
No experience with the rest.
Fantasy. Vague Romanticism.
Also, very interesting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wmeA17PGNc
The best aircraft: A380. The best airline: Singapore. Airbus over Boeing. Asian companies over Middle Eastern and European. I would prefer not to with fly American companies, but I am cheap (mileage card). Some regional jets from Bombardier and Embraer have more legroom than their bigger cousins as a side benefit of the 'Scope Clause' in the US. The things you learn as an avgeek!
I literally never have any idea what aircraft I am on.
I am like Kim, I just know I am on an airplane.
