Flying in economy class can be a mixed bag for passengers, with comfort levels often varying widely depending on the airline and aircraft design. One of the most controversial features of economy seating is the recline function — or lack thereof.

While many passengers appreciate the ability to recline during long flights, some airlines have opted for fixed-back economy seats that do not recline. Fixed-back seats, such as the Acro Series 9 and Series 6, are designed to save space, reduce maintenance costs, and improve overall cabin efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at five airlines that have embraced this seating concept.

1

Spirit Airlines

An ultra-low-cost carrier known for its no-frills flying experience.

According to Condé Nast Traveler, reclining seats in economy class are increasingly being omitted by airlines seeking to reduce costs. One such airline is Spirit Airlines, an ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in the United States. The airline has integrated Acro Series 9 Fixed Back seats across its fleet to maintain its reputation as an affordable carrier. These seats are designed with a slim profile that maximizes legroom while eliminating the recline function entirely.

The fixed-back design offers a durable and lightweight alternative to traditional reclining seats, which fits perfectly with Spirit’s operational goals. Passengers who fly with Spirit often prioritize low ticket prices over added comforts, and the Acro Series 9 seats help Spirit keep fares competitive.

Key features of Spirit’s fixed back seats:

  • Slim Design: The ultra-thin seatback creates more perceived legroom and optimizes living space in high-density cabins.
  • Durable Materials: Reduced wear and tear compared to reclining seats, decreasing maintenance turnaround.
  • Cost Efficiency: Simple, straightforward non-reclining build contributes to lower maintenance costs and reduced fuel costs due to the lightweight materials used.

2

Jet2

A British leisure airline catering to holiday travelers.

Before Spirit Airlines adopted the Acro Series 9, Jet2 – based in the United Kingdom – was the first airline to select the seats from Acro Aircraft Seating, per Economy Class & Beyond. Known for its budget-friendly flights to popular holiday destinations across Europe, Jet2 prioritizes operational efficiency to keep fares low. In February 2023, Jet2 became the first carrier to utilize Acro Series 9 Fixed Back seats.

jet2 a321neo

The airline’s fixed-back seats are part of its fleet of Airbus A321 and A320neo aircraft. For Jet2, the Acro Series 9 seats offer the perfect balance of comfort and practicality for leisure travelers on short-haul routes. All in all, the carrier’s passengers benefit from the airline’s focus on value and reliability, even if the seating lacks some of the comforts found on legacy carriers.

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The airline has come a long way since its foundation.

According to Acro Aircraft Seating, the key facts about the Acro Series 9 Fixed Back seat include:

  • Low weight of just 16.5 lbs (7.5 kg) per seat.
  • Suitable for both single- and twin-aisle applications.
  • Offers class-leading width, with cleverly designed wide but space-saving armrests.
  • Features an integrated headrest.

3

Pegasus Airlines

A Turkish low-cost carrier prioritizing efficiency and affordability.

Pegasus Airlines has followed a similar approach by adopting Acro Series 9 Fixed Back seats for its fleet of Airbus A321neo aircraft. According to an AviTrader report, 50 of the carrier’s A321neo will be outfitted with the compact, no-recline seats.

Pegasus Airlines Airbus A321neo Inflight

Photo: Airbus

The fixed-back seats align with Pegasus’ strategy of optimizing cabin layouts for maximum passenger capacity. By eliminating the recline function, the airline minimizes maintenance needs and creates a uniform seating experience across its economy cabins.

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With its hub at Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Pegasus is known for offering affordable fares across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Its passengers often praise the airline for its punctuality and value-for-money proposition, although the fixed-back seats may not appeal to those seeking added comfort.

Acro Series 9

Photo: Acro Aircraft Seating

Here’s what we know about Pegasus Airlines’ upcoming Acro Series 9 Fixed Back seats on its A321neo:

  • Upholstered in rich navy vegan leather, featuring custom trim and finish in Pegasus’ iconic red and yellow.
  • Pre-reclined to 21.5 degrees.
  • Deliveries of A321neos equipped with the Series 9 seats will begin in the first quarter of 2025.
  • A total of 50 aircraft featuring the seats will be delivered by 2029, with a potential for 50 further aircraft to follow.

4

Electra Airways

A niche charter airline with an eye on efficiency.

Electra Airways, a Bulgaria-based charter airline, also features Acro Series 9 Fixed Back seats. Operating primarily on seasonal routes and charter services, Electra Airways caters to leisure travelers who are less concerned with premium amenities and more focused on getting to their destinations affordably.

According to an Acro Aircraft Seating press release, the charter and AMCI airline opted to retrofit its Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft in 2023. Installation of the seats – in the airline’s rich red branding – on the first A320 took place in early 2024.

Related

Flying Etiquette: When Is It OK To Recline Your Seat?

I’ve had a few funny experiences with seat recline. If you fly low-cost, this probably won’t be an issue, seeing as most have taken away our ability to recline at all. But for many legacy airlines, economy passengers have a small recline of 2 – 3 inches, which can make all the difference to comfort when flying long haul.
On a recent Air Canada flight, I was keen to recline after the meal service, but was aware of the inconvenience reclining your seat can have on the person behind, particularly if they’re trying to use their tray table or still eating. As such, I patiently waited for the passenger behind me to finish their meal before attempting the lean-back.
Sadly, the person in front of me did not have such courtesy, and almost knocked my min wine off the table as they aggressively reclined the minute they finished eating. When you’re sitting upright and the person in front is reclined, it feels as though the IFE screen is right in your face

These seats allow the airline to maximize cabin space and offer competitive charter rates to tour operators and private groups. Electra Airways uses a variety of aircraft types, but the inclusion of fixed-back seats ensures a consistent and cost-effective experience across its fleet.

Acro Series 9 front view

Photo: Acro Aircraft Seating

According to Acro Aircraft Seating, Electra Airways selected the Acro Series 9 for the following reasons:

  • To suit the airline’s stylish yet classic livery.
  • The seats align with the airline’s brand values while meeting its passenger standards.
  • Sustainability – the Series 9 boasts a remarkable 99% recyclability of seat components.

5

Allegiant Air

An American carrier known for serving underserved markets.

Last up on this list is Allegiant Air, which also uses seats that cannot be reclined. Unlike the other airlines mentioned, however, this carrier utilizes the Acro Series 6 Fixed Back seats on its aircraft. An earlier version of the Series 9 that we discussed extensively above, the Series 6 seats are lightweight and pre-reclined to an optimal comfort angle of 23.35 degrees, per Acro Aircraft Seating.

Syracuse, NY- 3-25-2024-Allegiant Airlines Boeing 737-arrival Syracuse Hancock International Airport Syracuse, NY

Photo: Brenda A. Owens | Shutterstock

As an ultra-low-cost carrier based in the United States, Allegiant focuses on connecting smaller cities to major tourist destinations. The Acro Series 6 seats are tailored for short-haul flights, providing passengers with a basic yet functional seating experience.

The Acro Series 6 Fixed Back seats feature:

  • Synthetic leather seat cover
  • Sliding single-leaf table with cup recess
  • In-arm tray table for front-row seats
  • Aluminum armrests with disabled access
  • Life vest pouch

According to an Acro Aircraft Seating press release, the carrier selected the Series 6 seats for 50 of its Boeing 737 MAX aircraft in 2022. Allegiant’s route network and business model are built around keeping costs low, and the fixed-back seats play a crucial role in achieving that goal.

Acro Series 6

Photo: Acro Aircraft Seating

The seat’s basic design offers reduced operating and maintenance costs for the ultra-low-cost airline, without compromising on comfort. While passengers may not enjoy luxury seating, they appreciate Allegiant’s affordable ticket prices and direct flights to leisure destinations.

Final thoughts: the benefits and drawbacks of fixed back seats

While many passengers might disagree, the use of fixed-back seats does, indeed, offer advantages for both airlines and passengers. One notable benefit of non-reclining seats is the increased perception of legroom. Without the encroachment of reclining seats, passengers often feel they have more personal space, leading to a more pleasant travel experience.

For airlines, these seats result in lower maintenance and operational costs. Fixed-back seats are simpler in design, requiring fewer moving parts and less upkeep, which ultimately helps reduce costs for carriers. Another advantage is the uniform cabin layout they offer.

Allegiant Air planes lined up on the apron

Photo: BCFC | Shutterstock

By eliminating the option to recline, airlines can maintain consistency throughout the cabin, making it easier to plan seating arrangements. Nonetheless, while these seats offer practical benefits, they raise questions about passenger comfort, particularly on longer flights.

So, it’s no surprise that, despite their benefits, non-reclining seats come with a few drawbacks. As one would expect, they can be less comfortable on extended flights, as passengers may desire the ability to lean back for relaxation or rest. Another disadvantage is the inability to adjust the seat angle to suit personal preferences. For many travelers, the lack of flexibility can make long-haul journeys feel more rigid and less enjoyable.

Related

La-Z-Boy Petition To Ban Reclining On Flights Receives Over 186,000 Signatures

The company’s petition comes during the busy holiday travel rush.

Balancing its advantages and disadvantages, the adoption of fixed-back economy seats by airlines such as Spirit, Pegasus, Jet2, Electra Airways, and Allegiant Air highlights a growing trend in the aviation industry. By prioritizing cost efficiency and cabin optimization, these airlines have managed to offer lower fares while maintaining operational reliability.

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 737 Economy Seats

Photo: Sorbis | Shutterstock

For passengers, fixed-back seats represent a trade-off between affordability and comfort. While some may find the seating restrictive, others appreciate the increased legroom perception and streamlined cabin design. Ultimately, the decision to fly with these airlines often comes down to personal priorities — whether that’s budget travel or a more traditional flying experience.

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