tired of the Middle seat? Airlines Offer Ways to Buy Space & Fly in Comfort
For many travelers, the biggest annoyance of flying isn’t turbulence or delays – it’s the dreaded middle seat. Now, several airlines are offering options to buy extra space and enjoy a more agreeable flight, from bidding for an empty seat to booking an entire row. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available and how you can take advantage of these new offerings.
Virgin Australia: Bid for Breathing Room
Virgin Australia is pioneering a unique approach with its “Bid to Seat” program. This allows you to actively bid for the empty seat next to you.
* Bids start as low as AU$30 (approximately €17).
* You submit your offer through the Virgin Australia app.
* Triumphant bidders are notified up to two hours before departure.
* If your bid wins, but the seat is later sold as a standard economy ticket, you’ll receive a full refund.
However, there are a few limitations:
* Bookings are limited to a maximum of two passengers.
* You can only bid on one seat per booking.
* A successful bid secures the space only, not extra baggage allowance.
* Economy X and Business Class passengers are ineligible.
This program stems from a 2023 survey revealing that 42% of Virgin Australia customers would pay extra for an empty middle seat, especially on longer flights. over a third expressed interest in doing so on domestic flights exceeding three hours. Currently available on routes like Melbourne to Adelaide and Sydney to Perth, the airline plans to expand the program.
European Airlines: More Options for Personal Space
Across the Atlantic, European carriers are also responding to the demand for more comfortable flying.
Air France: “Empty Seat – My Extra Space”
Air France offers real-time seat privatization at check-in, allowing you to book up to three adjacent seats, subject to availability. Pricing varies based on destination and the number of seats you choose.
Lufthansa: From Free Neighbors to Sleeper Rows
Lufthansa provides several options:
* “Free Neighbor Seat”: Book the seat next to you on both continental and intercontinental routes by contacting the airline’s Service center.
* “Sleeper’s Row”: For ultimate comfort on long-haul flights, reserve a full row of three or four seats in economy Class.
* This includes a thin mattress, business Class-quality blanket, and pillow.
* Sleeper’s Row is available for flights approximately eleven hours or longer.
* Book directly at check-in or the gate (subject to availability).
* Expect to pay between €159 and €229 per leg. Advance reservations aren’t possible.
Why Airlines Are Offering These Options
These initiatives reflect a growing understanding of passenger preferences. Airlines recognise that comfort is a notable factor in the overall travel experience. By offering options to buy space,they cater to those willing to pay a premium for a more relaxing journey.
Moreover, these programs can potentially increase revenue for airlines, capitalizing on a demand that previously went unmet.
Is Buying Space Worth It?
Ultimately, the value of these options depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize comfort, especially on long flights, the ability to secure an empty seat or a full row can be a worthwhile investment. Consider your flight duration, personal space preferences, and overall travel budget when deciding if these options are right for you.
Resources:
* [Euronews: EES launch – will Eurostar passengers be asked for medical insurance at the border?](https://www.euronews.com/travel/2025/09/26/ees-launch-will-eurostar-passengers-be-asked-
Worth a look