CHOOSE THE
RIGHT AIRCRAFTNot all airplanes are created equal.
Some incorporate technology designed
to reduce fatigue and increase comfort,
particularly on longer flights.
For instance, while most airline cabins
are pressurized to the equivalent of
8,000 feet above sea level, the Boeing
787 and Airbus A350 and A380 (all
typically used on international routes) are
pressurized to the equivalent of 6,000 feet,
which may improve oxygen absorption
and reduce headaches and fatigue. Boeing
and Airbus say the advanced air treatment
systems on these models also make them
less arid and more comfortable than other
aircraft. Booking long flights on one of
these types of planes may help you arrive
feeling fresher and even reduce the effects
of jet lag.CHOOSE THE
RIGHT SEATSavvy travelers know that choosing
a seat involves more than deciding
between window and aisle. While
most seats in the economy section
typically offer the same amount of
personal space (many airlines allow
you to purchase a few extra inches of
legroom in coach for an added fee),
other factors can make a seat more or
less desirable. For instance, flyers sitting
near the galleys or bathrooms may be
subject to more noise, light, and even
jostling from other passengers than
those in other areas of the plane. Before
choosing a seat, consult a website such
as SeatGuru, which highlights the most
and least desirable locations. (If you’re
flying on one of the cheapest fares, youSECRETS TO STRESS-FREE TRAVEL
As airlines reduce legroom and seat width
to shoehorn more passengers into their planes
for profit, comfort is in increasingly short supply.
The 55,000 CR members who completed our
most recent airline satisfaction survey gave
legroom and seating comfort the lowest
possible scores for all the domestic airlines
we rated except JetBlue, which members
gave only slightly higher marks.
Also distressing were reports from parents
flying on the least expensive fares that
airlines wouldn’t guarantee they could sit
with their young children unless they paid a
fee or upgraded to a higher fare.
Here, we offer some easy and affordable
ways to make flying more comfortable and
increase the chance you’ll be seated with your
kids without having to pay for the privilege.
And our exclusive luggage ratings and advice
will help you choose the bags that will serve
you best for the long haul.
44 CR.ORG FEBRUARY 2020