A Detailed Look at Ryanair’s Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs Extra Legroom Options in 2024

Post Published November 1, 2024

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A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs

Extra Legroom Options in 2024 - Standard Seat Measurements on Ryanair Boeing 737-800 Aircraft with 30-inch Pitch





Ryanair's Boeing 737-800, designed to accommodate 189 passengers in a single economy cabin, features standard seats with a 30-inch pitch. While this seat pitch aligns with many US domestic carriers, individuals with longer legs might find the space somewhat confined. If you're looking for more legroom, the airline offers premium seats boasting a slightly increased pitch, between 32 and 34 inches. However, the extra legroom doesn't translate to a wider seat, as the width remains fairly consistent across seat types.

Some rows, notably the front rows and certain designated premium seating areas, offer the allure of extra space. These options, however, might have compromises such as non-reclining seats and a slightly reduced width to accommodate tray tables integrated within the armrests.

Ultimately, this aircraft type is engineered for shorter and medium-haul flights within Europe, with the main emphasis on efficiency and keeping costs down. Passengers, particularly those seeking greater comfort, should weigh the trade-off between desired legroom and the overall price of the flight.

Ryanair's Boeing 737-800, with its 30-inch seat pitch, offers a standard comparable to some US domestic airlines. However, it's important to remember that this 30-inch pitch is relatively modest compared to a broader industry average. Passengers might find the experience feels slightly restricted, particularly on routes that are longer.

The 17-inch seat width is optimized to maximize capacity within the cabin. This signifies a fascinating study in space management, cramming 189 passengers onto the aircraft. The 3-3 layout is an effective means of packing passengers, though it does create an environment where people must be very conscious of others' space.

With a focus on keeping costs low, the seats are designed to minimize weight. That includes the materials used for seat cushions and, likely, the seat frames. The minimal recline capability, commonly only around 2 inches, makes sense in the context of optimizing space for the maximum number of people. But, it's worth mentioning that this has led to tensions as some people like more space while others less.

Interestingly, a couple of rows have some extra legroom, for example, row 15. However, these seats sometimes have a trade-off in width because of how tray tables are installed. Other rows like 1B and 11A have been highlighted as providing more legroom but also some anecdotal complaints about bumping into those in adjacent seats.

Essentially, the plane design reflects Ryanair's commitment to operating a lean, low-cost business. In this respect, the decision to remove frills such as in-flight entertainment is also sensible. The absence of such things does reflect the core principle of the airline, but also the trade-offs.

From an operational perspective, the aircraft's configuration is undeniably clever in achieving efficient use of space. Yet, there's an open question about the implications in terms of safety. The narrow aisles and higher seat density could complicate a speedy emergency evacuation.

Despite the compact environment, Ryanair remains incredibly successful with their aircraft consistently having high load factors. This demonstrates that the strategy of prioritizing passenger numbers has been successful. This creates an environment where passengers accept a compact experience and high load factors are the norm.

Naturally, aviation regulations do change. If there are moves towards increasing minimum seat dimensions and space, Ryanair will have to consider how that might affect their aircraft configuration. For now, they will continue operating a model where space is at a premium. The aircraft is optimized for the needs of short and medium routes, and one of the drivers of their success is a unique space optimization approach.




What else is in this post?

  1. A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vsExtra Legroom Options in 2024 - Standard Seat Measurements on Ryanair Boeing 737-800 Aircraft with 30-inch Pitch
  2. A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vsExtra Legroom Options in 2024 - Extra Legroom Options in Row 1 and 2 Featuring 40-inch Seat Pitch
  3. A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vsExtra Legroom Options in 2024 - Wing Exit Row Seats 16 and 17 Benefits and Space Analysis
  4. A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vsExtra Legroom Options in 2024 - Price Breakdown for Different Seat Categories on Ryanair Flights
  5. A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vsExtra Legroom Options in 2024 - Window Seat Issues to Watch Out for in Rows 11 and 12
  6. A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vsExtra Legroom Options in 2024 - Non-reclining Seat Design Impact on Long Haul Flights

A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs

Extra Legroom Options in 2024 - Extra Legroom Options in Row 1 and 2 Featuring 40-inch Seat Pitch





A Detailed Look at Ryanair&#8217;s Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs<br /><br />Extra Legroom Options in 2024

Ryanair's Boeing 737-800 offers a bit more breathing room in rows one and two with their "extra legroom" option. These seats provide a 40-inch seat pitch, a significant upgrade from the standard 30-inch pitch found in the rest of the cabin. While this extra space is attractive, especially for longer legs, it comes at a cost – around £16 to £17 per flight. This pricing is actually quite competitive compared to other carriers which sometimes levy a significant premium for comparable legroom. However, it's a trade-off as these front row seats don't recline. You'll be able to book them online, but it's not possible to snag them at the airport. Ryanair's policies surrounding extra legroom vary depending on the route and time of year, so it's always a good idea to double-check the specifics before booking. One thing to keep in mind is that seat width remains about the same, even in these more spacious rows. So, while you'll gain valuable legroom, don't expect to be lounging in a particularly wider seat.






Ryanair's extra legroom seats, situated in rows 1 and 2, provide a noticeable upgrade in terms of space with a 40-inch seat pitch. This contrasts sharply with the standard seats, typically offering a more modest 28 to 30 inches of pitch. The extra legroom options are priced at roughly £16 to £17 per flight, significantly higher than the £6 to £13 range for standard seats.

It's worth noting that these seats, while offering more legroom, do come with some limitations. For example, they don't recline and feature fixed seat backs, likely a design choice to optimize space and potentially simplify cabin design. One can only speculate how this impacts passenger comfort, particularly for those who like to recline. This design choice seems to be a calculated one given that the airline is aiming for high capacity in a low-cost model. Interestingly, the slim-line design of the standard seats within the economy cabin might contribute to a perception of more space than traditional seats, creating a visual contrast with other seats.

While Ryanair's focus on efficiency is understandable, the extra legroom options provide an interesting opportunity to evaluate passenger preferences and the economic impact of enhanced comfort. The airline's strategy emphasizes cost control, but passengers are increasingly demanding more comfort, which explains the growing popularity of these extra legroom options, particularly on longer routes. Passengers are willing to pay for the perception of a better experience, and airlines have taken notice.

It's interesting to see the airlines' efforts to balance the need for passenger comfort with the drive to optimize aircraft space for the highest number of passengers. There is a fascinating tension between optimizing space for maximum capacity and the desire for a more comfortable experience, with potential safety considerations emerging for higher-density cabin configurations. These front row seats are non-refundable unless specific policy exceptions apply.

While Ryanair may be focused on their business model that emphasizes maximizing passengers in a limited space, there's an open question of how long the current design will remain viable given passengers' rising expectations and changes in regulatory pressures.

It seems likely that airlines will continue to experiment with pricing and seat design in response to shifting customer demands. Whether the current balance remains viable in the long term is something only time will tell.



A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs

Extra Legroom Options in 2024 - Wing Exit Row Seats 16 and 17 Benefits and Space Analysis





Ryanair's Boeing 737-800 offers a couple of exit row options, seats 16 and 17, that provide extra legroom compared to the standard economy class. These seats boast a 36-inch pitch, a noticeable improvement over the standard 30-32 inches, offering more space to stretch out during flights. However, there's a clear difference between these two rows: row 17 retains the ability to recline, which adds a level of comfort that row 16 lacks.

The extra legroom is certainly attractive, but you should be aware that not everyone can sit in these exit rows. Safety regulations limit occupancy to specific passengers, which can make them harder to secure, especially when booking.

While you get more legroom, the experience isn't without some caveats. The tray tables on exit row seats tend to be narrower than standard seats and integrated into the armrests. Additionally, those seeking ample underseat storage might be disappointed, as the space available is generally limited.

Ultimately, deciding whether these seats are a worthwhile choice depends on your individual preferences. Do you prioritize recline and want row 17, or is ample legroom without recline acceptable in row 16? It's worth considering the potential limitations related to tray tables and baggage if you're keen on having these exit row seats.

## Wing Exit Row Seats 16 and 17: Benefits and Space Analysis


Seats 16 and 17, located near the wings in the exit row, offer a unique set of advantages and drawbacks. Being positioned over the wings potentially leads to a smoother flight due to the wing's ability to dampen some of the aircraft's movement. This can translate to a more stable and comfortable ride, particularly for passengers sensitive to turbulence. The wing's structure also acts as a natural buffer, potentially reducing the impact of weight shifts during flight, a factor influenced by cargo and passenger distribution.

From a safety perspective, the proximity to emergency exits is a notable advantage of these seats. While this may not be a top priority for all travelers, it can offer a greater sense of security and potentially faster evacuation should an emergency occur. This feature is a trade-off, however, as passengers in these rows need to meet specific criteria and understand their responsibilities in the event of an emergency.

The extra legroom provided by these seats is a major draw, though the lack of reclining capability might be a significant drawback, particularly for taller individuals. Passengers accustomed to leaning back may find this a source of discomfort.

It's worth noting that these seats often have narrow tray tables and may present some challenges for passengers with large personal items due to restricted space under the seat. This limited storage space is something to keep in mind when preparing for the flight.

These seats also often see less traffic when compared to other areas of the cabin. This is due to their position near the wing, reducing the likelihood of people passing back and forth to access the restrooms or galley. Passengers appreciate this decreased disturbance at times.

Additionally, seats in row 16 and 17 are often more appealing to solo travelers due to their configuration, which usually omits the middle seat. This means that a passenger in either seat will enjoy a more private experience, without the inconvenience of having to share an armrest.

While the proximity to the engines might be a concern in terms of noise, the wing structure typically serves as a natural sound insulator, mitigating the impact of engine noise. The experience in these seats is often characterized by balanced noise levels, especially when compared to the rear of the cabin.

In the realm of service, it's been anecdotally observed that passengers in these rows sometimes receive a faster turnaround from the cabin crew. Since these are generally closer to the front of the cabin, crew can more readily attend to the needs of these passengers.


It is vital to be aware that seat preference is subjective. While the potential advantages of rows 16 and 17 are compelling, the lack of recline and the need to be aware of exit-row-related regulations should not be overlooked. Ultimately, each passenger needs to weigh the benefits and drawbacks to determine whether these seats align with their individual needs and preferences. The aircraft design creates specific conditions that passengers should understand in making informed decisions about their flight experience.



A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs

Extra Legroom Options in 2024 - Price Breakdown for Different Seat Categories on Ryanair Flights





A Detailed Look at Ryanair&#8217;s Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs<br /><br />Extra Legroom Options in 2024

Ryanair's approach to seating involves a tiered pricing system where different seat categories come with varying costs and benefits. Basic standard seats typically start around €11, but prices can increase for seats located further forward in the cabin. Passengers seeking extra legroom will encounter prices ranging from €15 to €20, with these seats commonly found in the front rows or specific exit rows. While these options provide more space, which is particularly attractive for taller passengers, they often come with tradeoffs. For example, some extra legroom seats might not recline and might have more restrictions on who is allowed to sit there. The extra legroom options also come with priority boarding, which is appealing for those wanting a smoother airport experience.


The pricing structure reflects Ryanair's focus on cost-efficiency. They aim to fill their planes with as many passengers as possible, while maintaining affordability. As a result, passengers must carefully consider the value proposition of the different seat categories and the associated costs. The carrier's approach is indicative of a broader trend within the airline industry where optimizing space and operational efficiency are central to the business model. This means they are constantly evaluating passenger behavior and changing their product mix accordingly. It's a dynamic balance between how passengers feel about the experience and what is profitable for the airline. Balancing comfort levels with a low-cost operation creates a complex picture where airlines like Ryanair are pushing the boundaries of what passengers are willing to accept.




1. **Ryanair's Seat Pricing Flexibility**: Ryanair's seat pricing isn't fixed; it adjusts based on how popular a route is and when you book. This "dynamic pricing" means the difference between a standard seat and one with extra legroom can be quite substantial, sometimes tripling the price.


2. **High Passenger Numbers**: Ryanair consistently fills its planes, frequently surpassing a 90% occupancy rate. Despite the relatively tight seating, many people prioritize low ticket prices over comfort, revealing a strong preference for affordability in the airline market.


3. **Safety and Seat Restrictions**: Due to aviation rules, only specific passengers can occupy the exit row seats (rows 16 and 17). This is due to safety considerations as these passengers are expected to be able to assist in emergencies. This limits availability and adds another layer to the seat booking process.


4. **Aircraft Design Focus**: The way Ryanair's Boeing 737-800 is set up prioritizes maximizing the number of passengers, using every inch of available space. It's a deliberate design to get the most out of each flight and create revenue.


5. **No Reclining in Extra Legroom**: It's interesting that none of the seats with extra legroom, even in the very front rows (1 and 2), recline. This appears to be a decision driven by optimizing space, which in turn simplifies the seat design and, thus, probably reduces costs.


6. **Who Flies Ryanair**: Studies show that Ryanair's typical customer is often a price-sensitive traveler, typically younger, and potentially less affluent. This indicates a correlation between low-cost carriers and those seeking affordability above all else.


7. **Balancing Legroom and Width**: While the extra legroom in some seats is desirable, the seat width stays the same at 17 inches across all classes. This reinforces the ongoing challenge in aviation to meet both passengers' desires for comfort and airlines' need to maximize profits.


8. **Engine Noise and Seat Location**: The position of the seats near the engine might lead to noise, but the wings often shield against it. Surprisingly, this can result in passengers in the wing exit rows experiencing less engine noise than those in the back, contrasting the common perception of aircraft noise.


9. **Legroom's Appeal on Longer Routes**: People tend to choose the seats with more legroom for longer flights, willingly paying a premium for the extra space. This reflects a change in traveler expectations—comfort is increasingly more valued on longer journeys, even within low-cost air travel.


10. **Competitive Pricing Landscape**: Ryanair's prices are strongly impacted by what its competitors are offering. If other airlines are flying similar routes at a certain price, Ryanair will often adjust its own prices to keep its share of the market. This reflects the extremely competitive nature of the low-cost airline industry.



A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs

Extra Legroom Options in 2024 - Window Seat Issues to Watch Out for in Rows 11 and 12





When looking at Ryanair's seating arrangements, it's important to be aware of potential issues with window seats in rows 11 and 12. Some seats in these rows, notably 11A, might not have a window due to adjustments made to the original aircraft design. This can be a let-down for passengers, especially if they've paid extra for a window seat hoping for a view. This lack of alignment with windows is a byproduct of the aircraft's setup, which includes components like air conditioning units. The frustration some travelers have expressed stems from paying for a window seat only to find themselves without the window. Since these rows often include extra legroom, which can be appealing, it's worth carefully considering your seat choice. Tools like detailed seat maps and online reviews can be helpful in avoiding the disappointment of a windowless seat. Essentially, choosing your seat strategically can improve your Ryanair travel experience, especially when cost-conscious flying necessitates more attentiveness to the specifics.

Here are ten aspects of Ryanair's Boeing 737-800 rows 11 and 12 that passengers should consider when choosing a seat:

1. **Window Misalignment**: Some seats in rows 11 and 12 might not align with the aircraft's windows. This seems to stem from alterations to the original aircraft design, resulting in seats where the window view is either obscured or at an odd angle. This can be disappointing for those seeking a good window view or wanting to take photographs during the flight.

2. **Storage Restrictions**: Depending on the exact seat location, the space underneath might be constrained. This often happens due to the positioning of structural elements or equipment, limiting where passengers can stow belongings. For those who carry more items, this limited underseat storage could lead to a cramped feel within the cabin.

3. **Wing Noise**: These rows are positioned near the wing, which could amplify certain engine sounds, particularly during takeoff and landing. This may be more noticeable for passengers on routes where turbulence isn't a major factor. This noise level is perhaps not a major issue, but worth noting in a cabin that otherwise can be fairly quiet on short routes.

4. **Lavatory Proximity**: These rows often sit close to the lavatories. While convenient for some, it could mean increased passenger traffic in the vicinity, resulting in some noise and disturbance, especially when flights are fully booked. This flow of people might increase the perceived lack of personal space during the flight.

5. **Recline Limitation**: Due to the structure of the cabin, some seats in these rows might offer very limited or no recline. This variation from other rows underscores the need to carefully assess individual seat information before booking. For those used to reclining during a flight, this might become a factor in their choice.

6. **Narrow Armrests**: Depending on the seat configuration and proximity to exits, the armrests in some of these seats might be slimmer than standard. While hardly noticeable, this could create a less comfortable experience for some passengers seeking more space to lean against. It does show the interplay between safety, passenger comfort and overall space constraints within the aircraft.

7. **Booking Challenges**: When booking seats in rows 11 and 12, passengers might face specific availability restrictions. This can occasionally create challenges in the booking process, especially when trying to choose a preferred seat. These restrictions can stem from safety-related considerations or the layout of the aircraft's cabin.

8. **High Demand**: These seats are often desired because of the prospect of extra legroom. Thus, they can sell out quickly, particularly on popular routes during busy periods. While not a major issue, this does reinforce the fact that planning and early bookings can offer the desired seating preference.

9. **Mobility Trade-offs**: While some of these seats offer windows, the position within the aircraft can make it more difficult to move around the cabin during the flight. This might matter more for passengers who prefer being able to stretch their legs and walk during longer journeys. The interplay of factors for passengers needing to be up can be very complex.

10. **Bulkhead Legroom Illusion**: A bulkhead in front of these rows might create the illusion of more legroom. However, the actual space might not necessarily translate into a significantly enhanced comfort experience. This can sometimes be a visual trick that might not reflect the passenger's true experience. It does underscore how the overall cabin design impacts the space experience.


The insights into the specific features of these rows reinforce how seat selection on a budget airline becomes a multi-faceted process. There are multiple interdependencies that can lead to an unexpected experience during a flight. Passengers considering these rows should check available seat maps and review online comments to understand the specific conditions related to a seat to be able to make an informed choice.



A Detailed Look at Ryanair's Seat Dimensions Comparing Standard vs

Extra Legroom Options in 2024 - Non-reclining Seat Design Impact on Long Haul Flights





The growing trend of eliminating or limiting seat recline, especially in economy class, is impacting long-haul flight experiences. This design shift, driven by the need for airlines to maximize space and accommodate more passengers, is becoming increasingly prevalent, with Ryanair's 2024 seating options highlighting this evolution. While airlines like Ryanair offer extra legroom options, often at a premium, the absence of recline in some seating configurations can pose a challenge for comfort, especially on longer routes. This focus on capacity over individual passenger comfort is particularly evident in aircraft like the Boeing 737-800, which are being reconfigured to optimize for efficiency and passenger numbers. However, whether passengers will readily accept this trade-off remains uncertain, as comfort becomes a larger consideration for travelers on longer journeys. Passengers must now factor in the potential limitations imposed by these new seat designs when booking flights, balancing the desire for extra legroom with the need for recline and comfort, particularly for those with back or joint issues. While airlines benefit from increased operational efficiency, the future of non-reclining seats in long-haul travel remains debatable as passenger preferences continue to shape the industry. This delicate balance between capacity and passenger experience, especially as it pertains to comfort, is a pivotal point that the airline industry will need to carefully navigate in the coming years.

1. **The Discomfort Factor**: While non-reclining seats are promoted for their space-saving benefits, especially in economy class on long-haul flights, they can potentially increase passenger discomfort. Sitting in a fixed position for extended periods can contribute to lower back pain, circulation issues, and a general feeling of stiffness. Research suggests that prolonged immobility can have a noticeable impact on how people feel throughout a flight.

2. **Cabin Space Optimization**: The switch to non-reclining seats is driven by airlines' desire to pack more passengers into the cabin, boosting revenue. These designs can simplify the overall seat structure and reduce the aircraft's weight, which in turn contributes to better fuel efficiency. It's a strategy that's especially attractive to budget-focused airlines.

3. **Perceptions of Space**: Interestingly, even with similar seat pitch and width, many passengers feel that non-reclining seats offer less personal space compared to seats that do recline. This can have a negative impact on passenger satisfaction, particularly on long journeys. There's a psychological element at play here where people feel a greater sense of being enclosed when they can't recline, regardless of the actual physical space they have.

4. **Evacuation Considerations**: A potential benefit of non-reclining seats lies in the potential to improve safety in emergency evacuations. Fixed seat backs create less obstruction in the aisles, allowing passengers to exit more quickly. This is a key area of focus for aviation safety authorities and directly impacts how airlines design their cabins.

5. **Increased Demand for Legroom**: The absence of seat recline has led to a more noticeable increase in demand for extra legroom seating options. Passengers are willing to pay extra to secure a bit more space and minimize discomfort on longer routes, even with budget airlines. This indicates that people are increasingly valuing comfort when they travel, and airlines are starting to adapt to these shifting needs.

6. **Dynamic Seat Pricing**: Airlines employ complex pricing algorithms to determine seat costs. Factors like passenger demand for extra legroom and the presence of non-reclining seats play a role in how ticket prices change. This dynamic pricing, seen in the Ryanair example, requires passengers to be strategic when booking if they are looking for affordable options.

7. **Physical and Psychological Impact**: Studies suggest that seating design, including the absence of reclining, can directly impact both physical and psychological comfort during a flight. Passengers may feel more confined and experience heightened anxiety on long flights when the seat can't be adjusted. Understanding the interplay of comfort and psychology during flights is a relatively new field of study, and there is much still to learn.

8. **The Design Compromise**: While non-reclining seats lead to more efficient use of the cabin, it comes at the cost of reducing passenger comfort. This leads to a complex balancing act for airlines as they try to meet the need for both profitability and passenger happiness.

9. **Bulkhead Seats**: Bulkhead seats are frequently associated with more legroom and are often non-reclining. They can be desirable for individuals who seek a more private travel experience or families wanting more space. These seats represent another way that airlines are designing planes with an emphasis on maximizing capacity.

10. **Seeking Improved Comfort**: Recognizing that many travelers find non-reclining seats undesirable, some airlines are introducing design tweaks aimed at improving comfort. Features like adjustable leg rests and upgraded cushions are being tested to see how they might reduce passenger discomfort. It's an interesting period of innovation in seating, with many ideas being tested and refined to enhance passenger well-being.


In conclusion, the introduction of non-reclining seats in airline cabins has sparked a complex debate about the relationship between efficiency and comfort. While it undeniably contributes to maximizing aircraft capacity, the trend has brought concerns regarding passenger well-being on longer flights. The shift is a fascinating example of how airline economics, design, and passenger preferences constantly interact.


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