Qatar, Emirates, Etihad: Who has the most legroom in Economy?

There is no denying that the Middle East’s big three carriers, Qatar Airways, Emirates and Etihad, offer a superior on-board experience across all cabin classes. In fact, all three airlines just won in the AirlineRatings rankings. Airline of the Year Award 2024 but which one offers the most space in Economy?

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has a fairly diverse fleet and with that comes a range of seat pitches. Qatar Airways’ A380 and A350 aircraft have a seat pitch of 31 to 32 inches and that of the Boeing 777 ranges from 31 to 33 inches. Their 787 Dreamliners have a pitch of 31 inches and the A330, 32 inches. Seat width varies greatly from 16.9 inches to 18.5. The author experienced both scenarios in Qatar and if you are lucky enough to board a plane with later seat pitch, it is a comfortable flight.

Emirates

Emirates currently operates a fleet of 777 and A380 aircraft. The minimum seat pitch is 32 inches and the maximum is 34. Seat width is fairly consistent, at 17 inches on the 777 aircraft and 18 inches on the A380.

Etihad

Etihad, like Qatar, has a varied fleet and with that comes a mix of seat spacing and width. The airline’s 787 Dreamliners have a seat pitch of 31 to 32 inches and a width of 17 inches. Boeing 777 and A330 aircraft can vary from 31.5 inches to 33. The width is constant at 17.5 inches. Etihad’s A380 aircraft also offers economy class passengers a seat width of 17.5 inches and seat pitch of 31 inches.

SOMEONE ELSE IS READING THIS THINKING ‘UMMMM THERE IS NO SHINY STAR HERE?’

We agree, there is no shining star, but let’s be honest, an inconclusive article is just plain boring. So who would we choose? In this case we should say Emirates, just for consistency. If you could choose the Qatar plane with a seat pitch of 33 inches and a seat width of 18 inches it would definitely be our winner, there is simply more personal space, but it is very difficult to know exactly what you will get.

One thing is for sure, anything about long-haul economy is never the most comfortable, BUT these three proven airlines, with their outstanding economy on-board product, make the trip much more enjoyable.

*Figures obtained from SeatGuru and Airline PR