How to Book the Best Tall-Friendly Economy Seat (Step-by-Step)
1. Check the aircraft type before booking
Not all planes are equal. Look up the aircraft (A350, A380, 787, etc.) wide-body jets usually offer better legroom and cabin comfort than older narrow-body aircraft.
Tip: When searching on Aviasales, use filters and flight details to confirm the exact aircraft type before booking. For tall travellers, this step alone can make or break a long-haul flight.
2. Compare seat pitch, not just ticket price
Aim for 32 inches or more of seat pitch. A flight that’s €30 cheaper can feel far more expensive after 10 hours with no legroom.
SkypropreAir tip: Aviasales often shows multiple fares on the same route — check each option carefully, as different aircraft on the same route can have very different legroom.
3. Target exit-row or bulkhead seats early
These seats sell out fast. If you’re tall, they’re often the single biggest comfort upgrade in economy — even more important than seat width.
Once you’ve booked via Aviasales, head straight to the airline’s seat map to lock in an exit-row or bulkhead seat before they disappear.
4. Choose an aisle seat for long flights
Aisle seats make it easier to stretch your legs, stand up, and avoid feeling trapped — especially on overnight or 8+ hour routes.
If flexibility matters, Aviasales lets you compare multiple departure times and aircraft so you can prioritise aisle-friendly layouts on long-haul flights.
5. Consider “Economy Plus” or “Extra Legroom” zones
If the upgrade cost is reasonable, these seats can add 2–4 extra inches of legroom — a game-changer for tall passengers.
Many airlines release extra-legroom seats after initial booking. Set a reminder and re-check your booking via the airline after securing your flight on Aviasales.
6. Avoid last-row and lavatory-adjacent seats
These often have limited recline and constant foot traffic, making them uncomfortable for long legs especially on night flights.
Before confirming your booking on Aviasales, always cross-check the seat position using the airline’s seat map or a trusted seating guide.
7. Re-check seats after booking
Aircraft swaps happen. Log in again closer to departure to confirm your seat still offers the legroom you chose.
Smart travel move: Pair your flight booking with SafetyWing travel insurance. If a last-minute aircraft change or disruption affects your journey, you’re covered for delays, interruptions, and unexpected costs — a small upgrade for peace of mind on long-haul trips.