Bid for Space: This Airline Lets You Pay for Extra Elbow Room

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Virgin Australia Introduces 'Neighbour-Free Seating' Option

Virgin Australia has introduced a new service called 'neighbour-free seating' on select domestic and short-haul routes. This innovative offering allows passengers to bid for the privilege of having an empty seat beside them during their flight. The airline uses a bidding system, which sets it apart from other carriers that allow passengers to purchase adjacent seats outright.

The process is straightforward for eligible passengers. Those who have booked an economy ticket on certain Virgin Australia flights can use the Virgin Australia app to submit a bid for a neighbour-free seat. Bids start at AU$30 (€17), and successful bidders are notified no later than two hours before the flight’s scheduled departure time.

However, there are some conditions. A free neighbouring seat is not guaranteed, as these seats remain available for purchase with an economy ticket during the bidding window. If this happens, the bid will be refunded. Additionally, customers must have a maximum of two passengers on their booking and can only bid on one seat. It's important to note that a successful bid only grants the seating space and does not include an extra baggage allowance. Passengers in Economy X and business class are also not eligible for this scheme.

This initiative was inspired by a 2023 consumer survey conducted by Virgin Australia, which revealed that 42 per cent of its customers would consider paying a fee to have the middle seat empty on international flights. More than a third of respondents said they would do the same on a domestic flight lasting longer than three hours.

Currently, the 'neighbour-free seating' option is available on selected routes, including Melbourne to Adelaide, Brisbane to Sydney, and Sydney to Perth. The airline plans to expand the service to more routes in the future.

European Airlines Offer Similar Options

Several European airlines have also introduced similar schemes to provide passengers with more space and comfort. For example, Air France offers an 'Empty Seat - My Extra Space' option, allowing passengers to privatise up to three adjacent seats. This option is available at check-in in real time and is subject to availability. The cost depends on the flight destination and the number of seats passengers choose to keep free.

Lufthansa provides a 'Free Neighbour Seat' scheme, enabling passengers to book an adjacent seat on continental and intercontinental routes. To book this, passengers need to call the airline’s Service Centre. Lufthansa also offers a 'Sleepers Row' option, which gives passengers a full row of three or four seats in Economy Class on long-haul flights. If booked, passengers receive a Sleeper’s Row set on board, including a thin mattress plus a Business Class-quality blanket and pillow.

On long-haul flights lasting approximately eleven hours or more, customers can book a Sleeper’s Row directly at check-in or shortly before departure at the gate, subject to availability. The additional charge for this service ranges between €159 and €229 per leg, and advance reservation is not possible.

These options highlight how airlines around the world are continuously looking for ways to enhance passenger experience by offering more personal space and comfort. Whether through bidding systems or premium seating options, the focus remains on meeting the evolving needs of travelers.