Plane maker Boeing and Alaska Airlines have unveiled expanded overhead bins which the companies hope will see an end to the daily carry-on crush as passengers board planes.
The bigger ‘space bins’ allow for nearly 60 more bags on a Boeing 737-900, which Alaska has configured for 181 passengers.
There is an extra two inches of space in the overhead bins which extends downwards, meaning two inches less headroom for passengers.
Brent Walton, manager of 737 interiors at Boeing, said few passengers will be impacted by the reduced headroom, while access to overhead lights will be easier for all.
Alaska takes delivery of the first of the newly fitted jets this week.
A major complaint from flyers is the lack of overhead space for all bags on full flights, especially when most US airline charge a fee for carry-on bags.
"Alaska is relentlessly focused on making the travel experience better. We’ve been on a mission to improve our cabin experience for several years and Space Bins are part of a $150 million investment we’ve made to make flying more comfortable and enjoyable," said Sangita Woerner, Alaska Airlines vice president of marketing.
By the end of 2017, nearly half of our fleet will have larger bins to accommodate a carry-on bag for virtually every customer."
