Today in the WSJ they were discussing how few "free" seats are left on airplanes anymore. As in, it doesn't require an additional fee to reserve them since they are not special or preferred. Don't want a middle seat? Be prepared to pay for an exit row, aisle or window. They suggested that once you see what the upcharge is, consider doing premium econ instead.
The joys of flying economy ...
But even after paying for a seat and paying to check a bag, the (inflation-adjusted) cost of flying continues its 40-year downward trend.
Hmmm. I flew RT on Delta, arriving back in France on Saturday, and I didn't pay for any of my seats. (I fly Main Economy.)
Here's a podcast about this issue (the article costs) https://www.wsj.com/podcasts/your-money-matters/some-airlines-charging-100-to-pick-a-seat/3fb8f2af-f51d-4e2a-ac18-4b1d9c7b64f8
It's about the charges for "preferred seats" which are the coach seats toward the front. Nothing new about this. I will say if there are no free seats that you want, be sure to not select a seat if a middle seat has not already been assigned, you may get a preferred seat or even an upgrade by not selecting a seat.
Previously, I tried to put together a comprehensive list of airlines that offer some seats without seat fees.
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/transportation/free-seat-selection-transatlantic-at-any-time-after-purchase
consider doing premium econ instead
The podcast of the article is suggesting coach plus (extra legroom), not premium economy, which is a different class and only offered on international flights.
"But airlines also have this next category of seats in the economy cabin, or most major airlines have it. They usually have the word plus in them. Economy plus, comfort plus. American calls at main cabin extra."
I don't think the confusion between coach plus and premium economy will ever go away. There was a recent Atlantic article that made the same mistake.
"I don't think the confusion between coach plus and premium economy will ever go away. "
I know it took me quite a while to understand that there was a difference. It was finally brought home when I flew to Japan on Delta, and they had both on the plane!
