Choosing the best seat on a plane can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, selecting the right seat can provide added comfort, better views, and even a greater sense of safety. With various options available, making an informed choice is key. Here’s a detailed guide to help you find the perfect seat for your next flight.

How to choose the best seats on a plane?

Here are the seats that offer the best comfort, space, and amenities for a pleasant journey:

Exit row seats

Exit row seats are often favoured for their extra legroom, which can be a real advantage for taller passengers or those who value more space on long flights. This additional space can greatly enhance comfort, especially on longer journeys.

Emergency exit seat row.

However, passengers in these rows must be willing and able to assist in an emergency, which comes with specific age and mobility requirements. Additionally, these seats might be slightly narrower since the tray tables are usually stored in the armrests.

Bulkhead seats

Bulkhead seats, found at the front of a section, also offer more legroom as there are no seats directly in front of them. These seats can provide a quieter environment, as they are often located further from the engines and galley areas.

Airplane first row seats.
Photo: Djedzura | Getty Images

However, the lack of under-seat storage can be a drawback, and proximity to bathrooms or galleys can lead to increased foot traffic and noise.

Window seats

Window seats are ideal for those who enjoy looking out the window or prefer a bit of privacy. They offer a wall to lean against, which can be more comfortable for sleeping. This seat choice is perfect for passengers who prefer not to be disturbed during the flight.

Aircraft window seat.
Photo: pixelshot

However, if you need to move around frequently or use the restroom, a window seat may not be the best option, as you’ll have to ask your seat-mates to move.

What are the worst seats on a plane?

Middle seats

Empty airplane seats.
Photo: Gabriel Albu’s Images

Middle seats are typically considered the least desirable due to the limited personal space and lack of access to either the aisle or window. Being wedged between two passengers can be particularly uncomfortable on long flights, offering minimal opportunity for movement and little privacy.

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Seats near the bathrooms

Airplane lavatory door.
Photo: Tomwald | Getty Images

While these seats might be convenient for bathroom access, they come with increased foot traffic and noise. The constant opening and closing of the bathroom door can be disruptive, and there may be odour issues to contend with.

Last row seats

Last row seats on a plane.
Photo: Gabriellephotos | Getty Images

The last row often has limited or no recline, as it’s usually positioned against a wall or partition. Additionally, being near the galley and bathrooms means more noise and potential disturbance from other passengers and crew.

What are the safest and least safe seats

Statistically safest seats

The middle seats

The statistically safest seats are generally found in the rear third of the plane, specifically the middle seats within this section. This area typically includes rows towards the back of the aircraft, behind the wings.

Studies have shown that passengers seated in the rear are more likely to survive in the rare event of a crash, as this part of the plane often experiences less impact.

The rear seats are also further from the engines and fuel tanks, reducing risks in scenarios involving fire or explosion.

Moreover, these seats are closer to the tail exits, which can be beneficial during an evacuation, depending on the situation.

Statistically least safe seats

The front of the plane

On the other hand, the statistically least safe seats are usually located in the front third of the plane, including first-class and business-class sections, as well as some premium economy areas.

These seats, positioned towards the nose of the aircraft, often experience greater impact in severe incidents, such as crashes with high-impact landings. The front of the plane, including the first few rows, tends to have a marginally lower survival rate in certain crash scenarios.

This is partly because these seats are closer to the cockpit and other structural complexities, leaving less room for the aircraft to absorb impact forces.

Pros and cons of window vs. aisle seats

Window seats

Window seats offer the benefit of views and a place to lean against, making them ideal for passengers who enjoy looking outside or prefer a bit of privacy. These seats also allow for a more comfortable sleeping position. However, window seats may not be suitable for those who need to move around frequently, as accessing the aisle requires disturbing seat-mates.

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Aisle seats

Aisle seats, conversely, provide easier access to the restroom and overhead bins. They are ideal for passengers who prefer to stretch their legs or get up often during the flight.

Airplane aisle seats.
Photo: MediaPhotography | Getty Images

However, aisle seats can be less private and more prone to disturbances from other passengers and the crew passing by.

Differences between front vs. back seats

Front seats

Front seats, often part of premium economy or upgraded seating classes, are closer to the exits, allowing for quicker deplaning. They are also typically quieter, being further from the engines. However, these seats may experience more noticeable turbulence and are often more expensive.

Back seats

Back seats, while sometimes considered less desirable due to longer deplaning times and proximity to the engines, which can be louder, may be perceived as safer by some passengers. Additionally, flights with lighter loads often have empty seats in the back, offering more space and sometimes a quieter environment.

Conclusion

Choosing the best seat on a plane depends on your priorities, whether it’s comfort, convenience, or safety. By understanding the pros and cons of different seating options, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs. Whether you’re planning a holiday or a business trip, the right seat can significantly enhance your flying experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which seats should I avoid if I want to be comfortable?

It’s best to avoid middle seats, seats near the bathrooms, and the last row. Middle seats offer limited personal space and access. Seats near the bathrooms can be noisy and crowded, and the last row often has limited recline and is close to the galley and restrooms, leading to more disturbances.

What are the statistically safest seats on a plane?

The statistically safest seats are generally located in the rear third of the plane, particularly in the middle seats of this section. This area is often less affected in severe incidents and is closer to the tail exits, which can be advantageous during evacuations.

Are there seats that are considered less safe on a plane?

Yes, seats in the front third of the plane, including first-class and business-class sections, are considered less safe in certain crash scenarios. These seats are closer to the point of impact and the aircraft’s structural complexities, which may reduce survival rates.

What are the pros and cons of window seats?

Window seats offer great views and a place to lean against, making them ideal for passengers who like privacy and a better position for sleeping. However, they can be inconvenient for those who need to move around frequently, as you have to disturb others to access the aisle.

What advantages do aisle seats offer?

Aisle seats provide easy access to the restroom and overhead bins, making them ideal for passengers who need to move around during the flight. They allow more freedom to stretch your legs, but they may also come with less privacy and more disturbances from passing passengers and crew.

Should I choose a seat at the front or back of the plane?

Front seats allow for quicker deplaning and are generally quieter but may be more expensive and experience more turbulence. Back seats may offer a quieter environment and more space if the flight isn’t full, but they involve longer deplaning times and are noisier near the engines.