As air traffic slowly recovers, big US carriers struggle financially. Southwest Airlines, the nation's largest domestic airline, withdrew their Coronavirus pandemic
promise of blocking middle seats this week, as many worry. Southwest Airlines won't prohibit middle seats on future flights due to their pandemic policy.
Southwest capped flight passengers at 66% after that policy. Every middle seat would fly vacant, increasing passenger distance.
Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines will ban middle seats until January 6. Delta and Alaska Airlines are the two major US carriers barring middle seats over the holidays.
JetBlue will cap seat sales at 70% until December 1. The airline cannot guarantee that you will not be seated next to another customer.
Southwest, American, and United cite pandemic studies claiming flying is safe. Hospital-grade air filters, mask laws, and thorough aircraft cleaning are cited.
Public reaction to Southwest's decision was quick. Southwest was criticized on Facebook and Twitter for prioritizing money over people.
One customer said, “I'm very sad about you unblocking the middle seat. I loved my flights, but now they'll be full with masks and strangers sitting next to you.
Airflow into the cabin is high. Most airplanes exchange air 20-30 times per hour, compared to 2-3 times per hour in offices and 10-15 times per hour in schools.