It seems to have died down a bit but recently Qantas and all the other major long haul carriers were being hauled into the courts to defend claims relating to DVT or ‘economy class syndrome’. Passengers claimed the condition was a result of their legs being immobile and cramped for an extended period of time. In the case of Qantas many passengers would argue that they had no option and Qantas were liable since requests for additional legroom were denied and exit rows were the exclusive reserve of elites.

If passengers now decline the extra legroom offered (at a price) and ignore the inflight health suggestions I think the chances of succeeding in a legal case against Qantas are lessened. It may not be popular with elites but from a shareholders perspective I think there is a lot to recommend in this strategy.