Two versions of the Boeing 737-800 are currently being manufactured. The two jet engine planes are used by American Airlines for short- and long-distance flights. Boeing 737-800 aircraft accommodate a total of 162 passengers in two different flight classes or 189 economy class passengers. First-class passengers have a distance, or pitch, of 40 inches from the headrest to the headrest of the seat directly in front of them. First-class seats are 21 inches wide. Economy-class seating measures 17.2 inches in width with a 31- or 32-inch pitch.
Two versions of the Airbus A320 are used by United Airlines. The planes are able to accommodate a total of 150 passengers in two different flight classes. The two jet engine aircraft can also transport 164 to 179 passengers on an all-economy- class flight. First-class seating is 20.5 inches wide with a 38-inch pitch. Economy Plus seating is 18 inches wide with a 36-inch pitch. Economy seating is 18 inches wide with a 31-inch pitch.
The Boeing 747-400 is a four jet engine aircraft used by Air India. The plane accommodates up to 416 passengers in three travel classes, 524 in two and 568 on all-economy class flights. Executive-class seating measures 19.5 and 21 inches in width and has a 57- to 59-inch pitch. Tourist-class seating is 17.3 to 18 inches in width. Seating pitch measures between 31 and 34 inches. First class seats are 19.5 to 21 inches in width. Seating pitch is 82 inches.
Alaska Airlines uses the Bombardier Q400. The small plane runs on two turboprop engines. Unlike jet engines, turboprop engines rely more on propeller action than exhaust gases for movement. Q400 planes accommodate a total of 70 to 78 passengers. There is only one travel class, coach. All seats measure 17 inches in width and have a 29- to 30-inch pitch. None of the seats reclines, and overhead space is limited on the aircraft. There are no window shades.
