Not every inflight experience is the same. In fact, passengers looking to book a plane ticket have access to a variety of airlines, addons (like premium meals or Wi-Fi) and classes of seating to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for flights using airfare search websites with the goal of finding a great deal or are a loyal customer of your favorite airline, there are steps you can take to make your time in the air as comfortable, enjoyable and productive as possible.
Airlines are typically transparent about their cabin features, so when you finally press that “book flight” button, you should know what to expect during your upcoming flight.
When booking your next flight, make sure to consider the following things:
- What kind of inflight entertainment will be in the cabin?
- Is IFE provided via seatback screens or through your own device?
- Are there meals available and what are the options?
- What is the legroom?
- Does the airline offer a rewards program and upgrades?
Is There Inflight Entertainment on the Flight?
Entertaining yourself on a flight can be challenging, especially if you’re on a long-haul flight. Airline carriers know this and seek to remain competitive by offering fliers several different entertainment options. While IFE has been around for decades, there have been several technological developments since movies were first shown on a plane.
Most planes still come equipped with seatback screens. If you’re booking a mid or long-haul flight, check if the flight you’re looking to book offers seatback screens with access to premium entertainment, such as a large and diverse selection of movies, shows, games, music and a 3D moving map. You’ll also want to check if the IFE is included in the price of your ticket or if you’ll need to pay an additional fee to access it.
Is IFE Provided via Seatback Screens or Wi-Fi?
Watching movies via seatback screens isn’t the only IFE airlines offer nowadays. In fact, more and more airlines give passengers the opportunity to entertain themselves and stay connected with inflight Wi-Fi.
Having access to inflight Wi-Fi allows you to use your own smart device for entertainment. You can bring your ground experience on board and use your favorite apps, binge shows, message friends and family and even knock out a few work emails. With access to inflight Wi-Fi, the entertainment possibilities are endless.
Are There Meals Available and What Are the Options?
As travel restrictions have been lifted, airlines have largely reintroduced inflight food and beverage offerings. Whether you’re flying business class, premium economy or basic coach, you can expect some sort of meal service on board. While first and business class passengers often receive a complimentary hot meal service, other passengers will likely have the option to purchase snacks and premium meals either prior to or during the flight.
If you’re booking a long-haul flight and have dietary or religious restrictions, make sure the airline can accommodate your needs. Most carriers offer a wide selection of special meals adapted to your preferences, such as vegan, kosher or gluten-free, but you’ll likely have to request your special meal at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
What Is the Legroom?
In the world of aviation, legroom refers to the distance between two rows of seats on a plane. You’ll want to book a flight that offers the most legroom for the price to be as comfortable in your seat as possible. First-class or business flyers generally enjoy significantly more leg room than those in coach or economy, but some airlines may offer less expensive options as well.
Generally, most airlines offer 30-32 inches of legroom in their economy class. If this seat pitch doesn’t seem comfortable enough because you’re tall, flying with a pet or the flight is several hours long, check if the airline of your choice offers premium economy seats, which usually offer more legroom (38-41 inches).
Does the Airline Have a Rewards Program or Upgrades?
Lastly, you may want to book your flight with an airline that rewards loyal customers. Many domestic and international airlines offer attractive rewards programs. Program participants accumulate points every time they fly with the airlines. After a while, the points you earn can be redeemed for things like seating upgrades, free access to airport lounges and fast track.
If you’re a frequent flier, consider enrolling in a rewards program with the airline that caters to your unique needs and preferences.
Choose Rosen Aviation to Create an Unparalleled Passenger Experience
Our team of experts at Rosen Aviation offer one-of-a-kind cabin display and inflight entertainment solutions.
To learn more, call 1-888-668-4955 or send us a message.