The number of vacant houses in Japan has surged to a record high of nine million, surpassing the population of New York City, as the country grapples with a declining population. Known as “akiya,” these abandoned homes are typically found in rural areas but are increasingly appearing in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. This trend poses significant challenges for a government already struggling with an aging population and a falling birth rate.

Traditionally, akiya refers to derelict residential homes in rural regions. However, the phenomenon is becoming more prevalent in urban centers, complicating efforts to address Japan’s demographic issues. “This is a symptom of Japan’s population decline,” said Jeffrey Hall, a lecturer at Kanda University of International Studies in Chiba. “It’s not really a problem of building too many houses but a problem of not having enough people.”

For decades, airlines prioritized cramming as many seats as possible into economy class. Now, in a global pursuit of high-spending passengers like Natalie Rasmussen, they are redirecting their efforts toward offering more spacious and luxurious seating options.

Natalie Rasmussen, an application scientist residing near San Jose, California, is among the growing number of travelers who refuse to endure long-haul flights in standard coach seats. “I’m not going to fly to Europe in 36B. 36B is a bra size, not an airline seat,” she declares. Instead, Rasmussen opts for business class or premium economy, a newer cabin class that provides extra legroom, larger seat-back screens, and other amenities, though not the lie-flat seats found in the premium tiers.

The demand for premium seats has become essential for airlines as standard coach fares dwindle and business travel’s post-pandemic recovery levels off. Amid these trends, passengers have demonstrated a willingness to pay for additional onboard space following the COVID-19 pandemic.