A social media user has sparked a major online debate after claiming a simple trick using her corporate email consistently bags her an entire row to herself on flights.
The Viral Claim and The Backlash
Rachel, who posts on TikTok and Instagram as @rachelinarealway, refused to 'gatekeep' her secret. She shared a video suggesting that because she books flights using her corporate email address, airlines give her preferential treatment, placing her in empty rows.
She captioned the clip: "POV: you started booking flights with your corporate email and started getting put in empty rows." The post quickly went viral, but it was met with immediate scepticism from travel professionals and frequent flyers.
A corporate travel agent with a decade of experience directly refuted the claim, stating: "I can confirm it’s not true in any way." She explained that while companies might have discount codes, these play no role in seat assignment. Another frustrated user commented, "Do you think the airline isn’t going to sell seats because some person has a corporate email? Having extra seats around you is luck. That’s it."
What The Travel Experts Say
Amanda Parker from Netflights confirmed there is no credible evidence supporting the viral hack. She addressed the theory that corporate clients are placed in sections less likely to sell out, stating: "this is not guaranteed."
She explained that airline seating is influenced by numerous factors, including time of check-in, overall flight bookings, and the type of aircraft. Therefore, passengers cannot rely on this method to secure extra space.
Proven Strategies For More Space
Instead of relying on unverified email tricks, Amanda Parker recommended more reliable strategies. One involves a psychological gamble: book a window or aisle seat in a three-seat row. Many solo travellers actively avoid the middle seat, so you might get lucky if no one books it.
She also emphasised the importance of timing. "Avoid flying during holidays and school holidays," she advised. Flying midweek rather than on weekends, and choosing midday flights over early morning or late afternoon departures, can significantly increase your chances of being on a quieter flight with more empty seats.
Ultimately, while these tips can improve your odds, securing a whole row often comes down to chance. As the experts confirm, you should always expect to have a seatmate.
