The last thing a passenger wants during a flight is to feel cramped next to a stranger, no matter the length of the journey.
Fortunately, a new scheme has been launched by a major airline which could see travellers be given the opportunity to keep the seat next to them empty.
Virgin Australia has introduced ‘Neighbour-Free seating’ on select short-haul international and domestic flights.
In a dream move for introverts or those who simply want a little more space in a tiny plane, passengers can now reserve the seat beside them.
Using the airlines app, economy passengers can save the spot at ‘an accessible price point’ of £14 ($30).
But that doesn’t necessarily mean the seat will definitely be empty.
The holidaymaker will be notified if their bid is successful two hours before the flight is due to take off.
If the seat ends up reserved by someone else, the passenger will be refunded their bid.
Virgin Australia has introduced ‘Neighbour-Free seating’ on select short-haul international and domestic flights
The new product comes after a consumer survey in 2023 by Velocity Frequent Flyer found 42 per cent of Virgin Australia passengers would be open to paying for the middle seat to remain empty on international flights longer than three hours.
Meanwhile, 35 per cent admitted they would do the same on a domestic flight that lasted more than three hours.
Virgin Australia Executive, Libby Minogue explained how the airline wanted to give customers more space ‘without the price tag’.
She said: ‘Our priority is to give Virgin Australia guests even more value and choice when they choose to fly with us.
‘Neighbour-Free Seating is a clever add-on for Economy travellers who want the certainty of extra space without the price tag.’
The airline boss revealed the move was based on the wants of passengers.
Libby added: ‘We actively listen to guest feedback, and this initiative is a direct response to what our customers have told us they want.
‘It is a step forward in enhancing the onboard experience and a game changer for those who want more comfort and space during their flight.’
In a dream move for introverts or those who simply want a little more space in a tiny plane, passengers can now reserve the seat beside them (stock)
Other airlines offer similar options, including Air France which has ‘Empty Seat – My Extra Space’.
With this scheme, passengers can book up to three seats next to them for ‘greater comfort, space, and privacy’.
It comes as a Ryanair flight was diverted after a passenger reportedly ‘ate his passport’ and another attempted to flush one down the toilet.
The plane recently jetted off from Milan to London Stansted but quickly turned to chaos.
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Major airline lets passengers ‘bid’ £14 to keep the seat next to them free
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