Tetris at 35,000 Feet: Airlines Reshape Business Class to Fit More Seats

The focus was once on complete commonality across fleets. Now, more airlines seem willing to add cost and complexity to squeeze in more business class seats.

Business class remains where most full-service carriers make most of their money. As a result, airlines have long sought to maximize revenue by offering a product that keeps their most lucrative (and often most informed) customers from moving to a rival with a better seat.

On twin-aisle widebody aircraft, direct aisle access for every passenger is critical for any serious international airline choosing new seats.

Airlines are now in the position where a seatmaker’s ability to squeeze an extra two seats compared with their nearest competitor is a