Yahoo Autos Why You Should Check the Plane Model Before You Book Your Next Flight
Carry-on travelers, this is for you.
Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images
Preparing for a big trip? Then it’s time to do a little homework.
Sure, you likely already know where you want to go, what hotel you want to stay in, and which time of year you’d like to visit, and you may have even looked into flight options. But, before you book, you should check out the plane model and layout so you can find the perfect seat.
Why is this extra step important? An airline’s cabin layouts and seats can vary even within the same class from plane to plane, and that means the in-flight experience can vary, too. Different plane models offer varying in-seat amenities and different sizing for overhead compartments and underseat storage. This is critical for die-hard carry-on-only travelers. You may have purchased a carry-on-sized bag, but that does not mean it will fit inside all overhead bins — and if it doesn’t, it could get gate checked.
Perhaps most importantly, different airplane models offer varying seat pitches which means the amount of legroom can vary, even in economy class. And in-flight entertainment options can differ, too, so you’ll want to see what your plane has on board — and download movies, podcasts, or TV shows before you go to avoid hours of boredom.
