As seasoned travellers and comfort connoisseurs, there’s value in a little extra elbow room on flights.

Whether jetting off for a grand adventure or visiting loved ones, having an empty seat next to you can transform your journey from tolerable to delightful.

What are the chances of this small pleasure becoming a reality on your next flight?


The Department of Transport's latest International Airline Activity report, published in late March, sheds light on this topic.

With a significant 35.4 per cent increase in available seats on international flights to and from Australia this January compared to last year, there's been a notable shift in occupancy rates.

Almost one-fifth of seats were empty with 81.5 per cent occupied—a five-point drop from January 2023.

Let's dive into the details and discover which routes are your best bet for finding that coveted extra space and which ones you might find more cosy.


Flights Most Likely to Have Empty Seats

If you're planning a trip to Timor-Leste, you're in luck.

Qantas flights on this route had the lowest occupancy, with only 32.9 per cent of seats filled.

Beijing-based Capital Airlines flights to China are not far behind, with a mere 33 per cent occupancy rate.


It seems that travelling to China offers a high chance of additional space, with Hainan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and Tianjin Airlines all reporting less than half their seats occupied.

For those with a penchant for island destinations, flights to Indonesia on Citilink Indonesia, Thailand on Thai AirAsia X, the Solomon Islands with Solomon Airlines, Vanuatu with Air Vanuatu, and Western Samoa with Virgin Australia also promise a more spacious experience.

Flights Least Likely to Have Empty Seats

However, if you are heading to India on Air India, be ready for a full house.

With a 93 per cent occupancy rate, the likelihood of an empty seat next to you is slim.

Qantas flights to the Philippines, South Africa, Canada, Chile, and Fiji were among the fullest, with occupancy rates all above 88 per cent.


Air Asia X flights to New Zealand are nearly as packed, with 90 per cent of seats taken.

Similarly, flights to Singapore on Scoot and Singapore Airlines, and Jetstar services to Thailand leave little room for stretching out.


The Most Popular Travel Destination for Australians

Based on 2023 data, Indonesia has recently claimed the title of the most popular travel destination for Australians, surpassing New Zealand for the first time.

With 1.37 million Australians visiting Indonesia in 2023, it's clear that the allure of its tropical landscapes and cultural richness is strong.

New Zealand, a long-standing favourite since the Australian Bureau of Statistics began recording tourism data nearly 50 years ago, now sits in second place.


When planning your next trip, consider these occupancy rates as a guide in selecting routes that may offer more comfort.

While an empty seat next to you is never guaranteed, choosing a less crowded flight could increase your chances of a more relaxed and enjoyable journey.
Have you recently flown on a route with plenty of extra space, or did you find yourself on a packed plane? Share your experiences in the comments below!