OUGHTA BE A LAW

Congress Wants FAA to Set Minimum Legroom Requirements for Airlines

The FAA would be required to set new standards for seats under bipartisan legislation.

Air travelers who are feeling the squeeze could be getting some relief from Congress. Lawmakers from both parties announced Saturday that they are including minimum requirements for legroom in a five-year extension of federal aviation programs. The space between rows in economy has shrunk from 35 inches to less than 30 on some planes in recent years, with carriers charging more for seats with extra room to stretch out. If Congress passes the extension bill, the Federal Aviation Administration would be required to set new standards. The legislation would also bar airlines from bumping passengers who have already boarded and would ensure flight attendants get 10-hour breaks between shifts.