While it is not guaranteed, it is possible to increase your chances of getting a seat to yourself on an airplane without having a first-class ticket. Here are a few strategies that may help:

1. Choose less popular flights: Flights during off-peak times or on less busy days of the week tend to have lower passenger loads. Consider booking flights on weekdays, early morning, or late evening when there may be fewer travelers.
2. Opt for less crowded seating areas: During the seat selection process, try to choose seats in less crowded areas of the aircraft. For example, selecting a seat at the back of the plane or near the window can sometimes increase the chances of having an empty seat next to you, especially if the flight is not fully booked.
3. Check seat availability closer to departure: Airlines often release unsold seats or make last-minute changes to seat assignments. Checking the seat map or contacting the airline closer to the departure time may reveal if there are unoccupied seats that you can request during check-in or at the gate.
4. Consider less busy routes or airlines: Choosing less popular routes or airlines that have lower passenger demand may increase the likelihood of having empty seats nearby.

It’s important to note that airline policies and seat availability can vary. Even if you follow these strategies, there is no guarantee that you will have a seat to yourself. Airlines may assign passengers to fill empty seats for balance or operational reasons, or other passengers may be reassigned due to unforeseen circumstances. The airline’s priority is to maximize revenue and passenger comfort, so they may make seat adjustments as necessary.

It’s always recommended to check with the airline directly for any specific policies, inquire about seat availability during the booking process, and remain flexible in case seat assignments change.