Coach seating is the most basic level of seating, with no extra features attached. First class or business seating usually gets more leg room, comfier and larger seats and other perks such as different menus or complimentary drinks.
Geekabout.com reviewed coach seats on several airlines and came up with the most comfortable options. Virgin Airlines gets points for leather seats and the latest technology offered to all its patrons. JetBlue has the most leg room, while British Airways, Emirates and Qantas all earn high marks as well.
If you're flying with a partner, consider flying Air New Zealand, which has just introduced new cuddle class seating for coach, where couples can lie down together.
Conde Nast Traveler offers a few tips on how to get the best coach experience. For example, flying at off-peak times will increase your chances of getting an empty seat next to you to stretch out (and also likely result in a lower fare). Try to book an aisle or window seat; middle seats are the least comfortable options. Exit row seats offer extra leg room but don't recline. Also, ask the flight attendant once on the plane if any better seats are available. She may move you somewhere better in coach or even upgrade you for free to a better class.
