My bad. - Bruce Lewis

This is one of those very divisive debates... - Stephen Mack

I'm only 5' 5" and in United planes my get close to hitting the seat in front. When reclined they get crunched. I have ankle and foot issues and often need to do sitting exercises or change my leg positions (crossed, un crossed) to keep even slightly comfortable. This is impossible when the chair in front in reclined (at least in United's cramped plane - Canada Air and Jet Blue who I also flew on this trip, were much better). I posted this yesterday when we were stuck on the runway and the guy in front of me reclined and went to sleep. The steward even had to shake him to wake him up when we were ready to take off. I didn't know it was going to get worse. As soon as we were up his seat was back down. The temp on the plane was horrible and I had to get my ankle brace off for more comfort. I could not move my legs or get to my brace. I managed to squirm and get it unstrapped and unlaced but I couldn't get it off my foot, so I left it as that was better. Unfortunately the velcro from the straps kept sticking my foot to the ground and I could move even less. I tried to wake the guy gently but I couldn't. And he had been a bit huffy with the steward when during the first time he was woken so I didn't want to be more forceful. Basically the flight was totally full. Reclining your seat only takes what little space the person behind you has to begin with. I don't recline without checking behind me first and confirming that either that person is reclined or is a kid or empty. It was a miserable flight. - Rachel Lea Fox

JetBlue was better with or without the "even more space" option? - Bruce Lewis

Sorry it was so terrible Rachel. When I fly United for any long distance I always pay the few extra bucks for Economy Plus. It really does make a huge difference. I have knee issues when I fly so I need to be able to move my legs around as well. Sorry you had such a bad experience. - Georgia

JetBlue is better in every way Bruce. There is more space. The tv in the back of the seat with entertainment is awesome. the stewards are on average nicer (I didn't go into my dislike of one of the stewards on the united flight). Their snack service is wonderful. There is always one free bag check and the second is not horrible pricing. I always arrive feeling better when I fly JetBlue. I will always choose JetBlue if I can. It just didn't work out for the return flight. - Rachel Lea Fox

Georgia, I often do too, but there was none available. It was a practically booked flight when we booked. - Rachel Lea Fox

Ow. I hope your ankles and feet are better now. - Bruce Lewis

Couldn't agree more. It's so frustrating when someone reclines their seat into my lap. I'm sure the discomfort you're causing me is more than the slight additional comfort you get in leaning back an inch. - COMPLICATED MR. NOODLE