I have flown first-class and I have to say I did like it. I was bumped from coach because I asked to be put on a list. I just asked the person at the Delta desk, “If first class is not full, I’d like to be put on the waiting list. Thank you.” That is it.
That doesn’t work every time obviously. I want to tell you the best second option. Reserve an exit row. I’m a tall guy and I have had the unfortunate experience of being in a standard seat and having the passenger in front of me drop their seat back. It would be comical if it weren’t so physically uncomfortable. I couldn’t put much on my tray table and it was hard to even read a book. I thought of resting the book on their head to make a point, but I didn’t.
The exit row is what you want. if there are two exit rows over the wings as in the example of the DC-9 above, The best seat is the window seat in the first of the two exit rows. “Why is that?” you may ask.
1. The exit row in a DC-9 has an extra 8-10″ of legroom.
2. The first exit row has an exit row behind it so you won’t feel bad dropping the back of your chair into someone’s lap. Always ask first – even if they don’t like the idea, they will appreciate the gesture.
3. The window seat gives you something to lean on to sleep
4. Chances for a quiet flight are 2X as likely with only one person next to you.
5. No one kicking the seat behind you!
6. No moving your leg over for a passing cart.
7. You control the amount of light into your row.
You may be wondering why I think this is first class treatment.
I just ran a query on Expedia.com and found that a round trip from New York – LA is $198 round trip for coach, but the first class equivalent is $1,578. Is that extra width of seat and a crappy airline meal plus a couple glasses of wine worth an extra $1,300 and change?
Here is what I propose for the best coach experience.
1. Reserve the first row of exit row seats and take the window. Some airlines make you pay extra for it. The $20-$30 is well spent for the experience. You are saving more than that by just booking the flight yourself.
2. Get a nice pair of Noise Canceling headphones. Be prepared to pay $60 on up. Sony has several models to chose from (don’t wait to buy them at the airport). You will be glad you did. Once you take them off in flight, you will be surprised as to how loud of an environment it normally is.
3. Right before you get on the plane – SPLURGE and get an amazing meal to go! Treat yourself to better than first class food. Get the best juices, coffee and fresh rolls just to annoy all of those other passengers around you.
4. Before taking your seat, grab a blanket and pillow available in the storage area overhead.
5. Have your sunglasses with you in case you want to take a nap.
You will have better-than-first-class experience. For less than 20% of the cost of first class.
Have a great flight!
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