Aisle pay that: seat surcharges leave spectators on edge at some of Australia's biggest events

"Some fans hate being stepped over inside the stadium and just want to enjoy the action in peace. Others won't sit anywhere else except the end of a row, and are prepared to pay a premium for the privilege. The extra cost of an aisle seat has reached $25 at the Melbourne Formula One Grand Prix, as part of a trend adopted at sporting events such as the MotoGP at Phillip Island and the Australian Open tennis,"

"A spokesperson for Tennis Australia confirmed aisle seat pricing was first introduced at the Melbourne Park major in 2022, with a modest premium of $5, responding to fan preferences for extra legroom and easier access. The Australian Open is placing a premium of between $5 and $15 on aisle seats for the 2026 tournament, although not all bays in all sessions carry the extra charge. Academic research, including a study published last year in the Sport Business and Management journal, has found aisle seats at sporting events are more valuable than others on the secondary market."

"In one of the sideline bays on the lower bowl of Rod Laver Arena for the first 2026 Open evening session, an ordinary seat costs $319, while the two seats on either side of the stairs cost $334. A similar aisle seat on the same night at Margaret Court Arena costs $139 in a bay where seats otherwise cost $129. Data showed aisle seats consistently sold first, confirming strong demand, Tennis Australia's spokesperson said."

Aisle seats at major sporting events and some concerts are increasingly sold at a premium because fans value easier access, extra legroom and the ability to avoid stepping over others. Pricing has ranged from a modest $5 premium at Melbourne Park in 2022 to up to $25 at the Melbourne Formula One Grand Prix, with the Australian Open adding $5–$15 for some aisle seats in 2026. Academic studies find aisle seats fetch higher prices on secondary markets. Event data show aisle seats sell quickly and premiums are applied selectively based on demand. Researchers describe the extra charge as a convenience premium reflecting willingness to pay for easier access to facilities.

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