Yes LY have 32" vs. CO only 31" on 777. In my opinion it makes a difference. As to the Hassidim, my cousin flew from Milan to JFK on Alitalia. A hassid was sitting next to her by the window and she was in the middle seat! For 9 hours he was praying throughout the flight and she said it was actually quite annoying. Personally on the flights I have taken I have never experienced any problem but I understand my cousin.