The Meaning and Experiences of Flying Coach
Many travelers often use the term 'coach' when referring to flying in the economy class section of the plane. Though this terminology is primarily used in the United States, it is important to understand the context in which it is used and how it compares to other classes of service offered by airlines.
What is Coach Class?
Coach seats, in the most common usage, refer to the standard economy seats—that is, not first class or premium seats. This terminology is commonly employed in the United States, and many US carriers designate these seats under the term 'economy class.' In many US airlines, seats in the economy class section offer limited services that may need to be paid for, such as checked bags, on-board food, and the hiring of headphones.
Comparing Coach Class to Other Classes
When air travelers refer to 'flying coach,' they typically mean flying in the economy class. This is increasingly used as a comparison to higher classes of service such as first class. Airlines often designate classes of service, typically combining economy, premium economy, business, and first class. These classes differ based on the size and comfort of the seating space, the level of onboard meal and beverage service, and the amenities provided.
The airline may also give different classes of service their branded names, like 'World Traveler' or 'Business Comfort.' For US domestic services, the economy or coach class usually includes 1–2 beverage services (alcohol is not usually free), a small snack item, and buy-on-board food and snacks for longer flights. However, the seat sizes and layout largely remain the same, with smaller seats in width that are 3 across, with an aisle in the middle, consisting of 3 seats on each side of the aisle. In smaller regional jets, the layout can be a 1 and 2 configuration or 2 and 2.
The Tradeoff of Flying Coach
The main tradeoff for flying in the economy class section is lower pricing. For the majority of passengers, the lower cost is often worth the reduced comfort. If you can only afford a limited number of trips, the ability to purchase multiple tickets at a lower cost may outweigh other perks. Additionally, these tickets fit well within your budget, leaving you enough for accommodation and entertainment upon arrival.
Optimizing Your Coach Experience
For the best coach experience, you can make a few adjustments. Sit in an aisle seat and be as close to the front of the plane as possible. This can help reduce your exposure to turbulence and allow easier access to the aircraft's amenities. Additionally, bringing your own water and snacks can help you stay comfortable during the flight. Many carriers, with the exception of Spirit Airlines, allow the transfer of luggage from other carriers, which is particularly beneficial for connecting flights.
Airline Comparisons
While all airlines offer a decent experience in their economy class section, different carriers excel in different areas. United Airlines is a popular choice for business flyers, offering the best overall service. Delta Airlines has some innovative technology that families and tourists will find enjoyable. However, Southwest Airlines is highly favored for its excellent customer experience but might not be the best choice for frequent flyers or those unable to tolerate cancellations other than those due to weather.
Final Thoughts
When deciding whether to fly coach, consider the length of your flight. If you are flying overseas and expect to be on the plane for more than 8 hours, the experience can be quite daunting, especially for first-time travelers. In many cases, it may be worth paying a premium to have a significantly better experience. In some situations, even a 30 to 40 dollar increase in fare can make a substantial difference in your travel comfort.