High Flights: 7 Tips for Tall Travelers to Fly in Comfort

High Flights: 7 Tips for Tall Travelers to Fly in Comfort - Pick Seats with Extra Legroom

Extra legroom seats can make all the difference for tall travelers cramped into tiny coach seats. While every inch counts, some airlines are more generous than others when it comes to giving flyers a bit more space to stretch out.

On most domestic flights, seats with extra legroom are located in the emergency exit rows or bulkhead areas. Look for seats labeled "Exit Row" or "Row 1" when selecting your seat, as these tend to have several inches of additional space. However, airlines often charge extra fees for these premium seats, so be prepared to shell out $20-60 each way.

For taller travelers, the extra cost is often worth it. Reddit user r/tall shares that the emergency exit seats on Alaska Airlines have been a "lifesaver" for their 6'5" frame, providing ample room to cross legs without banging knees. Others suggest splurging for bulkhead seats when flying budget airlines like Spirit that cram rows close together.
Some cushier carriers like JetBlue and Delta offer a few inches more legroom in their standard economy seats at no extra charge. But for flyers over 6'2", it's still a tight squeeze. Opting to pay for Even More Space or Comfort+ seats nets you an additional 3-5 inches of precious legroom.

International flights on widebody aircraft tend to have more space in general. However, look for airlines using modern Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s, advises frequent flyer blog GodSaveThePoints. These new planes have higher ceilings and reconfigured layouts that feel more spacious. Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways stand out for their generous legroom even in basic economy.

No matter the airline, SeatGuru is an indispensable tool for identifying seats with extra legroom. Their color-coded maps indicate green seats with expanded space and yellow or orange seats that may be cramped. Cross-check seat dimensions as some "green" seats still max out under 32 inches. Try testing different aircraft and cabins to find your best option.
While booking extra legroom seats in advance is ideal, sometimes last-minute upgrades are possible at the airport. Politely ask at check-in if any exit row seats are available, especially on flights that aren't full. Being flexible on your seat selection and boarding time can pay off with a free legroom boost.