Courtesy of RJ Hinkle of Quadphoto

Americans may not be getting slimmer, but the seats on Southwest Airlines are. The carrier began a $60 million overhaul of its interiors earlier this year, including a new seat that reduces weight on each plane by 635 pounds for an annual fuel cost savings of $10 million. Each 737-700 gains six seats, raising capacity to 143 from 137 (or one more seat row). Seat recline is reduced to two inches from three, and seat pitch drops to 31 inches from 32. Southwest claims the lighter seats are actually more comfortable and have more room underneath for luggage. New interiors also sport recycled carpet and brighter colors. Southwest is expected to complete the retrofit by the end of next year.

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