That would not reduce the depth of my laptop. It still would not fit between me and the seat in front. The old pitch was just within the limit of usability.
Not trying to either defend airlines (it is not just WN doing this), or get on your case. But traveling with smaller devices nowadays really is the way to go.
I am quite comfortable with an 11'' notebook, but even a 13'' "works" for tight seating.
I realize that some can not make this change for some reason, but for anybody who can it is a huge win. Soooo much easier to lug around, keep charged and find room for.