Today I flew ATH-AMS on a brand new 737-800 (PH-BCK) which features not only the new luggage bins and sky lighting...it also has totally new/different seats. I havent seen much/anything about these here on FT yet so I thought to post my review.
Lets start with the good. The luggage bins are much larger, similar to the B777 bins. They allow to store the troleys sideways..so theoretically that makes it possible to store quite a few more of them. The seats have adjustable headrests (adjustable in height & the sides are foldable), sturdy traytables, coat hanger, and a separate pocket for magazines. There's also a USB power plug at every seat.
This flight was, including boarding time and delayed departure, over 4 hrs in length. I was seated in EC with the middle seat free and that was fairly comfortable overall. Though less comfortable than the old seats.
While I cannot prove it, my impression is that the seating surface is shorter than it was before. The last 10cm of my legs were basically not being supported by the seat. Maybe that has always been the case, but I noticed it and the seat felt 'short' to me. The seat pitch in EC was good.
Back support is less good than what it was in my opinion. They are slimline seats, and even though there does seem to be some lumbar support - I found the old seats slightly more comfortable.
Another thing I REALLY do not like is the armrest. They have been made much slimmer than before, and shorter in length. If you thought you had to fight for them before, now they are even borderline uncomfortable if you do manage to get both of them for yourself. I don't think they can be shared with your neighbour any more. This may be fine for short flights, but for me personally good arm support is important - especially if you are in the aircraft for 4+ hours. This I consider the largest downside of the new interior to be quite honest.
Have others flown these new aircraft with the new interior? What are your experiences?
Some impressions:
Oh and if you thought you had privacy in business...not any more.
