[island911]

Originally Posted by jyl

Seat pitch was typically 40 inches in the 1940s-1950s. In the mid 1970s, typical was 34-36 inches. In the late 1980s, typically 32-33 inches. Currently typical is 30-32 inches, this is in standard coach.

Flying Across America - Daniel L. Rust - Google Books

There is no rule that says airlines have to provide reclining seats.

What happens then? The seat pitch pulls tighter, 30" or so.

IOW, each seat-back is then in the passenger's face as would be a reclined seat in front of an upright seat ... and there will be no reclining away from that close seat back. But at least everyones knees are more cramped. :-/

Oh, and more competition for the overhead bins! yay!