Insufficient leg space tops passenger complaints
Contributors are not employed, compensated or governed by TD, opinions and statements are from the contributor directly
According to a recent survey, lack of legroom is the biggest concern about flying today, with 80% of passengers expressing preparedness to pay extra for more space. On the up side, 60% of survey respondents lauded improvements in airline booking procedures over the last five years.
The news was announced by TripAdvisor, which released results of its inaugural air travel survey of more than 1,200 respondents from Southeast Asia.
“Interest in international flights continues to rise despite some persistent air travel frustrations, such as uncomfortable seats, limited leg room and unpredictable flight changes but we are also seeing some positive signs as flyers report easier booking and more flight routes that help improve the traveller experience,” said Andrew Wong, regional director of TripAdvisor Flights, APAC.
Asked how their in-flight experience might be improved, responses reflected fliers pet hates. In total, 28% of respondents wanted more leg room, 24% wanted more comfortable seats, and 80% said they are prepared to pay extra for additional leg room. As for those frustrated by loud and crying children, 48% of respondents would pay to sit in a child-free section.
Offering credit where due however, flyers in Southeast Asia recognised a number of improvements in air travel over the past five years. In total, 63% of travellers reported improvements in booking procedures, while nearly half said air fares had become more affordable in the last five years. Trailing the top five improvements is in-flight entertainment, which remains important with 95% of passengers rarely or never forking out additional fees for internet access.
Box out: Top complaints among South East Asia air passengers
- Uncomfortable seats / limited legroom – 61%
- Unpredictable flight delays / cancellations – 50%
- Costly airline fees and ticket prices – 50%
- Long security lines – 43%
- Loud / crying children – 42%
Box out: Top five biggest improvements in air travel
- Easier booking – 63%
- More affordable flights – 49%
- More flight routes / options – 45%
- More streamlined check-in process – 38%
- Better in-flight entertainment options – 25%
Comments are closed.