There is a growing divide on narrow-body planes. Hawaii flights have always been long (for domestic flights), but now the in-flight experience is getting even more challenging. While shrinking seats and packed cabins get most of the attention, another issue has quietly escalated—getting to the lav and who gets to use which restroom?
In recent comment bantering, long-time reader Marilyn said, “Aloha, on an AA flight the pilot indicated that passengers should use the lavatory in their cabin. I have heard that first class passengers do not want to share.”
Regular Don replied, “Guess what Marilyn, when we actually pay for first class it does entitle us to perks that coach passengers don’t have and if that means a less frequently used lavatory then so be it.”
Passengers seated in economy are increasingly finding themselves locked out of first-class lavatories, with airlines actively announcing and enforcing policies that keep passengers in their designated class. At the same time, long lines, narrow-body aisle congestion including from service carts, and limited restroom options in economy are making some flights to Hawaii more uncomfortable than others.
“Stay in your own cabin.”
For some passengers, being denied access to a first-class lavatory feels like an unnecessary restriction. Airlines have long preferred that economy passengers avoid the forward restroom, but on certain flights, they are more frequently making such formal announcements.
Another frequent flyer commenter confirmed this practice is not limited to one airline, stating, “Some airlines, like American, regularly make announcements for passengers to use the lavatory in their ‘ticketed cabin.'”
It is a rule that divides opinion. Some see it as a first-class perk. Others argue it is simply impractical now, especially with the increasing congestion and lack of facilities in economy cabins.
What about the FAA policy to not congregate at restrooms?
The rule about not forming lines for restrooms is still technically in place per FAA regulations, but in practice, it’s inconsistently enforced. Airlines used to announce it more frequently, especially post-9/11, as part of security measures. However, enforcement nowadays seems to vary—it’s still common to hear it for the front lavatory near the cockpit, but much less so for mid-cabin and rear lavatories.
On many flights, passengers still queue in long lines heading towards the rear lavatories without issue, and crew often let that rule slide unless it becomes an extreme congestion problem. When it comes to the first-class lavatory, some airlines actively discourage economy passengers from using it entirely, citing the “use the restroom in your ticketed cabin” guideline.
The single-aisle bottleneck.
The issue goes beyond first-class access. Lavatory placement on Hawaii-bound aircraft has created an unexpected headache for travelers seated in economy.
“I never thought about lavatory placement before,” one reader admitted. “But I got stuck in an aisle seat near the back of the plane. Every few minutes, someone was brushing past me or hovering over my row while they waited in line. It is not just uncomfortable—it is claustrophobic.”
Others noted that it is the modern airliner layouts that create traffic jams such that simple tasks like stretching, standing, or even getting to the restroom are a very real challenge:
“These narrow-body planes have really taken the joy out of it,” another traveler wrote. “It is a battle just to get up to stretch or go to the restroom without bumping into half the plane. At one point, I gave up trying and just stayed in my seat for the last two hours of the flight.”
The problem is, as we pointed out previously, especially severe on aircraft with only two rear lavatories, such as on the United Airlines MAX 8. To have a look at how aircraft for Hawaii flights are configured, see: Not All Hawaii Flights Are Created Equal—Here’s Why
One commenter said, “I have been on those United MAX 8 flights, and the aisle situation is a disaster. There is no way two people can pass each other, so if someone is waiting for the restroom, everyone is just stuck. Even the flight attendants seem frustrated because they cannot move around freely to do their jobs.”
A class divide—or a human necessity?
First-class passengers have their own opinions on the situation, with some defending restricted restroom access as part of the experience they paid for.
Another traveler raised concerns that allowing full access to first-class lavatories could turn them into just another economy bathroom, losing any sense of exclusivity. Others, however, see it as a practicality issue rather than a class divide.
“I get that narrow-body planes are more efficient,” a traveler wrote, “but can we at least have enough bathrooms spaced to avoid the endless lines? On my last flight, I counted at least seven people waiting in front of me at one point, blocking the aisle for the entire back section. It was ridiculous!”
The Restroom Controversy Extends to BOH Editors: Rob vs. Jeff
The divide over restroom access isn’t just happening among passengers; even Beat of Hawaii editors, Rob and Jeff, have different takes on the issue. Rob, for instance, believes that unless it’s an emergency, it’s part of the experience to wait in line for economy lavatories at the rear of the aircraft. He’s not as bothered by the limited facilities or the wait. On the other hand, Jeff, who often flies in economy using the 3-seat trick, has a more nuanced approach. He admits that when seated in the front of economy and faced with impossibly long restroom lines reaching the rear lavatories, he sometimes takes the “luxury” of using the first-class lavatory quickly, if it is available.
“While I’d never make a habit of it, in those tight moments, I do what I need to do to avoid the discomfort,” Jeff says. “Otherwise, I’m going to give up drinking water on these flights.” Rob, however, counters, “If you’re in economy, you deal with it. First-class lavatories are a perk. You’ve paid for that space and accommodation.”
This internal disagreement reflects the broader divide on Hawaii flights, where restroom access is becoming as much about class as it is about convenience.
The real problem is capacity.
The root of the problem is not just who can use what—it is the overall lack of enough restrooms for the number of economy passengers on board and the ability to get to them easily.
Older wide-body aircraft used to provide multiple restroom options and access for economy, easing congestion. But as airlines move to single-aisle aircraft like the A321neo and 737 MAX, restroom availability and access has shrunk in economy, especially given high passenger loads the airlines need.
Some airlines have attempted to address this by adding mid-cabin lavatories, but others have opted for configurations that force economy passengers to wait in long lines for the only restrooms that are located at the very back of the plane.
One traveler pointed out the stark contrast of different airlines and aircraft, stating, “I think seat comfort is comparable, but the NEO had the benefit of a mid-cabin lavatory and Delta’s excellent inflight entertainment. That made a difference.”
Another noted the practical challenges of restroom access, saying, “Heaven help you if you must use the restroom and you are behind the refreshment carts.”
What’s next?
While the debate over first-class lavatory access continues, the larger problem remains—Hawaii flights are feeling more congested than ever. The airline industry’s push for efficiency means every seat filled. So restroom access, like legroom, is not what it used to be.
For now, passengers have limited options beyond strategic seat, airline and aircraft selection and hoping for airlines to reconsider restroom placement in future aircraft layouts that unfortunately remain decades away. Until then, the frustration of long lines and restricted access is not going away anytime soon.
Do you have a take on economy passengers accessing first class lavatories?
Beat of Hawaii photo of United Airlines Max 8 compact lavatory.
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I could buy a main cabin ticket 75% cheaper than the delta 1 ticket I buy so of course I don’t want main cabin using the delta 1 bathroom. Delta announced they have increased the price of delta 1 tickets to make up for what they’re loosing not being able to fill up main cabin. There is only so much I’m going to pay. You would think they’d be smart enough to put in a couple more toilets so people booked main cabin again.
It’s not an FAA policy but a TSA Security Requirement. The standard announcement as required directs passengers to use the lavatory in their ticketed cabin so that FC and therefore the close proximity to the cockpit not become open season to any and all passengers and those with bead intentions.
Part of what I pay for in first class is the use of that bathroom, me and all the other first-class passengers.
The problem is there is only one bathroom in first class, and although there are more people in economy there are minimally two bathrooms. If anyone is allowed to use the first-class bathrooms you will see the same lines form and that will be worse because airlines really don’t want people congregating around the cockpit!
I agree. When the pilot or captain use the restroom they block off the area. It would never work to have a congregation of people by the cockpit for security purposes.
Action needed: we ALL must write to the airlines about the lack of bathrooms on flts longer than 4 hrs. Short, sweet and to the point. Also, the location of bathrooms. Need to be mid cabin. They don’t care unless they hear from many passengers.
They are flying the smallest planes to the farthest distance. We must revolt to management. Otherwise nothing changes. The crews hate this too. Don’t blame them. Write, write, write.
Airbus has mid-Cabin Lavatories on Single Aisle Aircraft, no reason Boeing can’t do the same thing, it just means 2 Rows/6 Seats Revenue, to create the Lavatory. As cramped as 737MAX First is, and Alaska’s plans to use for Hawaii, it may be time to reconfigure Cabin’s, and take the first 2 Rows in Coach for a Lavatory, this way when the Carts are in use, both front and back are accessible in Coach.
The issue is the airlines. I understand main cabin passengers wanting to access 1st class, especially when there are only 2 bathrooms in the back. I fly 1st and main cabin. The issue I have when I’m in 1st, is the impact when trying to sleep, which is why I fly 1st. The bumping into the seat, increased traffic, noise etc.
I dont have an answer, we as fliers keep putting up with the legroom, small bathrooms, etc.
It works! The unsaid airline truth and financial strategy is to “purposely” make people uncomfortable – “Calculated misery” (minimum Restrooms, minimum Legroom, Lower Air Quality, Food, etc.) for financial gain. They will never admit it outside of strategic planning.
When people are uncomfortable in economy for whatever reason (restrooms), there is a greater propensity and demand for First Class/Business Class Seating and Restrooms. Therefore, people would be willing to pay a mint for those First Class Seats and Restrooms.
And it just so happens that the First Class section has a more favorable and convenient Passenger to Restroom ratio.
Actually, you’d probably be surprised at the percentage of people flying up front that did Not “pay a mint” to sit there. I’ve seen upgrades to Hawaiʻi for as little as $150. Hardly “a mint”. Many people use miles to pay for the trip or to upgrade from coach. Some passengers up front got complimentary upgraded due to their elite status with the airline.
It doesn’t have to cost “a mint” to fly up front if you know what you are doing.
Conspiracy theory, anyone?
I don’t understand why people got so excited about the 3-seat trick? Yes, you don’t have anyone seated next to you, but you’re still in a regular narrow seat and with the crammed leg space. Not even remotely an alternative to the business class, let alone the first class.
As someone who consistently buys, or uses frequent flyer miles, regularly for first class seats to Hawaii, I’m not so upset over economy passengers using the first class lavatory. But I am upset when economy ticketed passengers use up first class over-head bin space as they are boarding narrow bodied aircraft, and throw their carry on bag into a first class over-head bin on their way back to coach!
Not good.
This is sad. This is class warfare when it’s not necessary. Instead of fighting each other, pressure the airlines to provide more bathrooms on planes. Can we have sympathy and empathy for each other?
I don’t understand “Fly 1st or don’t fly at all” as posted by some. So if flying Chicago to Charlotte, you would choose 1st class only because you need the restroom on a 1.5 hour flight? I bet 40% of flights are under 2.5 hours long. So if you use the terminal restroom 20 min before departure and don’t drink anything 2 hours before departure — most can “hold it” without using the restroom. But of course we cannot discipline ourself to do this. And then airlines hand out water and sell beer?
A few of us can’t stop our medications, especially when traveling long distances. Some medications help us get rid of excess fluids to help our hearts and lungs. That means we go to the restrooms more often than the average person. I can’t afford first class so I’m stuck in bathroom lines in the back.
I mainly book 1st class on narrow body barely 1st class aircraft because I need quick access to bathrooms due to a medical concern. I dont mind an occasional person from economy when blocked by a cart or with similar medical issues using the forward one, but if it becomes too common it seems like the added cost of barely better than economy first class won’t be worth it. We considered the 3 seat method, but bathroom access is the reason we dont use it. It’s a long 2 flights on narrow body aircraft from Indianapolis to LIH or KOA.
First off why do subscriptions have to scroll for decades to your birthday? Just type it in.
First class is first class. Those who travel so don’t want to even be close to economy travel.
I’m not even close to a millionaire but I am above dumb scum. I save for two seats first class, business, etc so I don’t sit next to anyone. Noone sits next to me. And I choose not to share a toilet with others who don’t want to pay for a more private area.
Why are you whining? Cough up extra money.
And seat squatting pay for what you want.
As a no class first class passenger, i would much rather see the 90 year old grandma, seated in 10a, venture up to the first class toilet when the seatbelt sign is on and she absolutely has to go, rather then having her venture to row 35 when the seatbelt sign is on and where the toilets are in coach. I think risk analysis would favor her having a lessor chance of injuring herself or anyone else, when uncontrollable nature absolutely calls. Of course i would much prefer her to be able to wait until the seatbelt sign goes off entirely. I seem to recall another airline, i think it was ATA that had their 737s configured with three sets of toilets just past the trailing edge of the wing, near the jet escape drop down exits at roughly row 22 when i went to Hawaii. This seemed liked a good compromise rather than having toilets only at the extreme ends of the narrow body cabin. Airlines can put toilets almost anywhere they want except it costs more thus, they don’t bother.
It’s really quite simple, Airbus has Single Aisle Aircraft with additional Coach Bathroom at mid-cabin. Boeing can do the same taking out roughly 2 Rows on one side or both, Mid-Cabin, or behind First Class optimally. This would allow during Service, access in short in front, and in back. Reduced Seat Revenue will raise prices, but First Class has always had announcements, plus it keeps people from crowding that cabin, that has a substantial Premium and Pilots also use that facility.
If you want first class, perks… Pay for them. Very simple. Aloha, Mike.
All the complaints from coach section are valid ones, which is why I no longer fly coach and choose first class.
The way I see it there are 2 options, fly in 1st or don’t fly at all.
Aloha BOH, Depends , pun intended , or pay the price for the comfort and convenience of first class. Knowing after meals and beverage service there is always the rush to the head, time your intake to align with the slower periods. We eat and drink at different intervals than the on board service. Sounds unrealistic but it works.
Aloha and Mahalo
I don’t understand how this can be an issue.
Sit in the seat you paid for and use the restroom assigned for your seating area. If you want the privilege of using first class restroom then pay for a first class seat.
I was a stewardess 58 years ago and even then first class restrooms were for first class passengers. This is not a new policy. The flight crew also uses them. What is new now is that people are feeling so entitled. Sitting close to first class does not entitle you either.
You hit the nail on the head. Not all airplanes And airlines are designed the same way.
Your readers need to know, if this is an issue, Always book Alaska Airlines.
They have more lavatories per customer than any other airline.
Alaska Boeing 737-800/Max 8: 4 lavs; 1 up front, 3 in the back
Alaska Boeing 737-900/Max 9: 4 lavs; 1 up front, 3 in the back
Air Canda Boeing 737-Max 8: 3 lavs; 1 up front, 2 in the back
American Boeing 737-800/Max 8: 3 lavs; 1 up front, 2 in the back
Delta Boeing 737-800: 3 lavs; 1 up front, 2 in the back
Delta Boeing 737-900: 4 lavs; 1 up front, 3 in the back ** some have only 2 in the back.
Southwest Boeing 737-800/Max 8: 3 lavs; 1 up front, 2 in the back
Sun Country Boeing 737-800: 3 lavs; 1 up front, 2 in the back
United Boeing 737-800/Max 8: 3 lavs; 1 up front, 2 in the back
United Boeing 737-900/Max 9: 4 lavs; 1 up front, 1 midcabin, 2 in the back
WestJet Boeing 737-800/Max 8: 3 lavs; 1 up front, 2 in the back
Terrific info. Thanks!
The more context we can get on topics like this allows me to be better informed. Regarding the bathrooms, it would be useful for BoH to get commentary from the actual airlines. The more they are pressed by the media on this topic or any other topic, the more they are likely to consider how they can differentiate themselves from the airline list above.
I think we’re all barking up the wrong tree here. The only way the airlines will take notice is if it becomes a real big issue. While I sympathize with passengers in first class, the inhuman treatment of economy class justifies breaking a stupid rule and heading for the front if necessary. Something is seriously wrong when decency is forfeited because someone paid more.
Problem is, part of the First Class experience is a more spacious cabin, and more privacy.
Having a nonstop congo line from economy to the front lavatory negates that.
Great article gentlemen.
I have to agree that airlines are really screwing people with how they configure their planes.
There should be a standard number of bathrooms for x amount of people.
Travelers should also book flights on planes that have more restrooms on them.
Bathroom access and the great experience is one of the reasons that I exclusively fly first/business class.
Airlines want people like me because what we pay is what helps them to be profitable.
Yet another reason why I grimly refuse to fly narrow body (I regularly fly them to Vt which is much less time in the air) to Hawaii… I’ve never had any problem accessing lavatories on them. My last flight going in Dec, the AA pre/econ cabin on the 777 right up on first class had a mid area facility and both classes used it.
Returning in Jan, I was in first on a Delta A330 and the lavatory was by the cockpit. The the pax in premium cabin behind first used it no problem. Even stretching my legs and walking through coach, there seemed to be 4 adequate lavatories there. It’s no joke needing to go and trying to find a free stall once you (and your bladder) hit a certain age!
I have not flown economy or coach class for over 35 years. There is a reason why! It is the not luxury or a status statement to me. It is for the seating comfort & when I rarely need it, an available restroom. Since I do not eat meals offered, drink or use the entertainment on any flights, it is the one connivence I will pay extra for. I am not out to “get every penny” I paid for. Also, the first class restrooms on Hawaiian Airlines are cleaner than those shared with economy class on domestic flights. To me, it is worth the price differenctial.
Oh Boy! This topic will get Many comments!
Fly early morning so that at least you have clean bathrooms for part of your trip. After the third hour of flight time most lavatory floors have a wave of pee sloshing back and forth. Come on guys! It is not the ladies.
How about paid and attended lavatories? Contract the space. Guaranteed revenue.
I flew home to Hawaii last week and had a terrible experience with bathroom lines. I think the biggest problem is the lack of facilities. There needs to be more restrooms for the number of people on these flights, no matter how the seating is arranged. What were airlines even thinking. Oh yeah, and the size of the lavs is also crazy small.
Rob is respectful and makes a good point, but I’m with Jeff. It’s just a bathroom! It shouldn’t be a luxury to get to use one without waiting a half hours and looking back to keep checking the line that never diminishes. Sheesh. I’ve had enough of that hassle on narrow-body flights to Hawaii.
Honestly, I’m starting to get used to it. I’ve been flying a lot recently and while it’s annoying, I’ve come to accept that cramped aisles and long bathroom lines are just part of the deal now. It’s not ideal, but it’s a reality I can get used to I guess.
I have a hard time believing first-class passengers think it’s “their” lavatory. I mean, we’re all humans and need to go at some point. Seems like the airlines should just include more bathrooms for everyone, no matter where you’re sitting. Who ever did the calculations for how many are reasonably needed?
First Class products include more space and a more private cabin. That should also include keeping foot traffic down. I’ve flown a lot in First Class, and the majority in steerage. If you want egalitarian flights, then fly Southwest.
Yes this has got to be one of the worst things about flying to Hawaii right now. I’ve been on so many flights where the bathroom lines were unbearable. There has to be a better way to manage space on these planes, and the restroom situation should be a priority for airlines to deal with.
I’m with Jeff on this one. Sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. When you’re stuck in the back with no room to even move, and the line is so long, using the first-class lav is the lesser evil. I’ve done it a few times—doesn’t seem like that big a deal to me.
I just paid $3,000 plus dollars one way for 2 people nonstop to the Mainland. We’re older adults, want to be closer to restroom facilities, have faster easier boarding, nicer food selection, lay down if we need to. We’ve worked hard our whole lives can now afford this luxury to ourselves in our late 70’s,which is about 10 times the cost of an economy round-trip fare for two. We Pay Dearly for Privileges of luxury food, comfort, ease of boarding and no waiting in lines for the lua. We skrimped and paid economy fares our whole lives up to age 75. The flights on most carriers now are barely tolerable these days unless You Pay For First Class! Sad ! But Economy paying passengers should respect this and should be nicely but firmly directed back to their paid section by staff. It’s Not Cool to pretend unawareness. These types just feel entitled to wander where they like, no matter how uncivil nor disrespectful of rules.
As an 80 year old with a disability that makes standing for any period difficult and balance an issue as well as I use a walker, I find your rant offensive. I am not a rich entitled person like you so I usually try to get the seats just behind 1st class. I ask the staff if I can use the front washrooms and they usually say yes. My situation is such that I get off last and get a wheel chair. Sorry I bother you Sir>
I agree. I used to have a good paying job until 20 years ago and a truck drove into me. I’m very glad to be alive but can barely stand or walk, and sitting is a beast of pain to endure when it’s absolutely necessary. And now we are poor. It happens when you can’t work for 20 years. I seldom fly unless it’s to Oahu and back the same day for healthcare. Needless to say, jets have Really changed in the last 20 years since I’ve been to mainland. But that’s another story. I am flying in a couple days to the mainland. I book near restrooms but the crowds that build up back there! So far people are polite enough but even when I’m not in line, it gets really hot and muggy with all the people lined up like cattle just to care for a mandatory, necessary bodily function. We need more restrooms in the middle of the plane, Please! It’s humiliating to be treated this way. I just can’t imagine flying for “fun” like this if I were more able.
Dear entitled. I am 80 not rich and use a walker and wheel chair. Balance and standing a problem. I try to get just behind 1st class and ask permission to use front washroom. I am last off as I need wheel chair. I am offended by your absolute entitled attitude. Yes you are entitled and offensive.
Your comment is equally offensive. If you read the entirety of her statement, you’ll see that she said they flew economy most of their lives, scrimping and saving so that now they can indulge. That is not entitlement, that is choice. You can’t take it with you so you might as well book first class to Hawaii.
If there is no bathroom in the middle – 1st 18 rows go forward + last 18 rows go backwards. If there are 200 people on a plane, it’s just dumb to restrict 1 bathroom for the use of 12 people, while 188 have to use only 2.
Entitlement sucks. get over it. Be a nice human being to others
I get that first-class is a premium experience that is paid for, but also true is that the bathroom situation in economy is becoming a real problem. With the way narrow-body planes are packed, it’s hard to even get up without bumping into people. It’s so frustrating!
I don’t understand why economy passengers aren’t allowed to use the first-class bathrooms when they’re not in use! It feels unfair, especially when there’s a long line in the back and limited space wrecking it for passengers and crew alike. At least make it an option for a quick stop, especially on longer flights.
I feel that those seats in the front of the economy sections should be able to utilize the forward rest rooms. It cuts down on congestion in the rear of the aircraft, and allows more people in the rear to use that restroom. Now if there are 1st class carts in the aisle, that changes things. On a seven hour flight, everyone on the flight will probably need to go. Let’s show some dignity and allow restroom access when available.
On longer flights (3hr or more), the gate agents should “remind” passengers 20 minutes before boarding starts that “it would be a good idea to use the restrooms in the terminal now”. If that only encourages 10 people to do so, it would help space out the restroom needs during the flight. Also I note that often the Fasten Seat Belt light does not go off once at cruising level as it used to 10 years ago. Sometimes it is 30+ minutes after take off. That again reduces time available to use restrooms. And I agree, carts in aisle can be an issue – especially if blocking access from front of economy to the rear.
When I used to fly a lot for business in the ’80s, ’90s, and ’00s, including plenty of economy trips, I never considered using the front restrooms unless I had a ticket in that section of the plane. Now, I fly strictly for personal vacation-type trips and pay a lot extra to sit in the front. I’ve noticed a lot of folks from the economy using the front restroom(s), especially on narrow body jets with only a center aisle. That’s not right. I’ve never seen a front-seated passenger complain, and I’ve never seen a flight attendant turn someone back, but I have seen them put up the divider (rarely) and announce the rules. It’s true that if you have to go and the cart’s in the way, you have to go to the front. On the other hand, with the advent of DEI, more people may believe they are entitled. Passengers might pay for better treatment. After all, many pay extra to visit the airline lounges.
I have been seated in the rear of a single aisle plane near the restrooms. People with their butts in your face in an aisle seat..So it can be, similarly, “Elevators smell different to a midget”ì!
Flying to Hawaiʻi for 5 – 5 1/2 hours on a narrow body will seem like a piece of cake when the A321XLR comes online with more airlines. AA has already said it will allow them to fly to parts of Europe only serviceable by wide body aircraft now. You think 5 hours is a long time? Just wait until you’re flying 8 or 9 hours to Europe in one!