Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Understanding Airplane Seat Classes and Configurations
Seat Pitch: The average seat pitch (the distance between a point on one seat and the same point on the seat in front of it) has decreased from around 35 inches in the 1970s to only 30-31 inches in modern economy class.
This reduction in legroom can make long flights quite uncomfortable.
Seat Width: The average seat width has also decreased from around 18 inches in the past to just 16-17 inches today, making it more challenging for larger passengers to fit comfortably.
First Class Luxury: First class seats can be up to twice the width of economy seats and offer significantly more legroom, recline, and amenities like lie-flat beds, gourmet meals, and personal attendants.
Premium Economy: Many airlines now offer a "premium economy" class that provides 3-4 inches more legroom and slightly wider seats compared to standard economy, at a price point between economy and first/business.
Basic Economy: As a cost-saving measure, some airlines now offer "basic economy" fares that restrict seat selection, carry-on bags, and other privileges compared to regular economy class.
Seat Location Impacts Turbulence: Seats towards the front of the aircraft generally experience less turbulence than those towards the rear, as the wings dampen some of the turbulence effects.
Window Seats Offer More Storage: Window seats typically have more personal storage space for items like water bottles, as the fuselage tapers towards the center.
Aisle Seats Provide Easier Access: Aisle seats make it easier to get up and move around the cabin during the flight, but also increase the risk of being bumped by passing passengers and flight attendants.
Bulkhead and Exit Row Seats: These seats offer extra legroom, but are often more expensive and have restrictions on who can occupy them (e.g.
no babies in the exit row).
Seat Assignments: Many airlines now charge extra fees to select your seat in advance, rather than assigning seats randomly at check-in.
Paying for seat selection can ensure you get your preferred location.
What else is in this post?
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Understanding Airplane Seat Classes and Configurations
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Aisle Seats vs Window Seats: Pros and Cons
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Strategizing for Extra Legroom and Legspace
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Navigating the Pros and Cons of Bulkhead and Exit Row Seating
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Maximizing Comfort with Premium Economy and Business Class Seats
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Considering Seat Width and Cushioning for Long-Haul Flights
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Selecting the Best Seats for Solo Travelers, Couples, and Families
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Minimizing Noise and Disturbance: Quieter Zones on the Plane
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Accessing Power Outlets and In-Flight Entertainment Options
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Tracking Seat Availability and Upgrades with Flight Booking
- Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Airline Policies on Seat Selection and Assignments
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Aisle Seats vs Window Seats: Pros and Cons
Aisle seats have lower air pressure, which can help reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by improving blood circulation.
This is because the aisle seats are closer to the aircraft's pressurized cabin walls.
Window seats allow passengers to lean against the fuselage, which can provide better support and comfort for sleeping during long flights.
However, this can also restrict easy access to the aisle.
Aisle seats have a higher risk of contact with passing foot traffic, which can spread illnesses like the flu.
Studies show aisle seat passengers are 80% more likely to catch respiratory infections compared to window seat passengers.
The window seat offers unobstructed views and the ability to control the window shade, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic landscapes or block out sunlight as desired.
This can enhance the overall flying experience.
Passengers in aisle seats have easier access to the overhead bins, making it more convenient to retrieve items during the flight.
Window seat passengers must climb over their seatmates to access the bins.
Aisle seats provide more legroom and freedom of movement, as passengers can easily stretch their legs into the aisle without disturbing their neighbors.
This is especially beneficial for taller travelers.
Window seats are quieter as they are further away from the engine noise, which can be a consideration for light sleepers.
Aisle seats are closer to the engines and may experience more ambient noise.
Passengers who suffer from motion sickness may prefer the window seat, as they can focus on the horizon and reduce feelings of nausea.
Aisle seats offer less visual cues for the brain to process.
Families or groups traveling together may opt for the aisle and window seats to maximize personal space and avoid having a stranger between them.
This can enhance the social experience of the flight.
Airlines often charge more for window and aisle seats, as they are generally considered more desirable.
Travelers looking to save money may have to compromise on seat location.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Strategizing for Extra Legroom and Legspace
The standard seat pitch, which is the distance between seats, is typically 31 inches in domestic flights and 34 inches in international flights.
However, some airlines offer more legroom, with some Airbus A321s having a seat pitch of up to 63 inches in business class.
Paying for extra legroom seats can be worth the extra cost if you are 5 ft 9 inches or taller and the cost of the upgrade is no more than $50 each way.
However, if you are shorter, you may not find the extra legroom advantageous.
Airlines measure legroom using "seat pitch," which is the distance between seats.
Some airlines offer more legroom on certain aircraft models.
For example, Airbus A321s have a seat pitch of up to 63 inches in business class on some airlines.
You can use your points to upgrade to extra legroom seats, which can be worth the splurge.
Some airlines have an extra four to five inches of legroom in the Economy Plus section.
SeatGuru is a useful tool for finding the best seats on a plane.
You can search for seat maps by airline and flight number to find the seats with the most legroom.
Even More Space seats on JetBlue offer up to seven inches of extra legroom compared to standard economy seating.
These seats are generally located in the first several rows of economy and at exit rows.
The average seat pitch in domestic flights is 31 inches, and in international flights, it is 34 inches.
However, this can vary depending on the airline and aircraft model.
Some airlines' extra legroom seats can cost between 20 and 75 dollars, depending on the flight length.
American Airlines arguably offers the most affordable option, with a mere 34 inches of leg space for an additional fee.
Even More Space seats on JetBlue offer between 3 to 7 inches of additional legroom, with prices ranging from 60 dollars per flight.
These seats are located at the front of the economy section and at exit rows.
The global standard for seat pitch is 31 inches, but it can vary depending on the airline and aircraft model.
Some airlines offer more legroom on certain aircraft models, such as Airbus A321s, with a seat pitch of up to 63 inches in business class.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Navigating the Pros and Cons of Bulkhead and Exit Row Seating
Bulkhead seats provide more legroom, but storage space is limited since there's no seat in front of you to stow items under.
Exit row seats offer generous legroom, but you'll need to be able to operate the emergency exit if necessary.
Window seats are considered desirable, but keep in mind you may have to climb over your seatmates to access the aisle.
Aisle seats provide easy access, but you may get bumped by passing passengers and service carts.
The science behind seat comfort relies on ergonomics - the bulkhead and exit rows have more room due to the lack of a seat in front, allowing your legs to extend naturally rather than being cramped.
Noise levels can vary greatly depending on your seat location.
Bulkhead and exit rows are often quieter since there's less foot traffic and no reclining seats in front to disrupt your space.
Boarding and deplaning speed is influenced by seat selection.
Exit row passengers are some of the first to exit the plane, while those in the rear have to wait until the aisles clear.
Turbulence affects window and middle seats more than aisle seats.
The science shows that the wings and fuselage provide more stability in the center of the aircraft.
Seat width and padding quality can make a big difference in long-haul flights.
Look for seats with at least 18 inches of width for optimal comfort.
The further back you sit, the more likely you are to experience unpleasant odors from the lavatories.
Seats near the front tend to have better air circulation.
Families traveling with young children may want to avoid exit rows, as they are not permitted to sit there for safety reasons.
Bulkhead seats often accommodate bassinets.
Recent advancements in aircraft design have focused on improving seat ergonomics and space efficiency, so newer planes tend to offer better overall seating experiences compared to older models.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Maximizing Comfort with Premium Economy and Business Class Seats
Premium economy seats offer around 4-6 inches more legroom compared to standard economy, providing a more comfortable travel experience.
Business class seats typically have a seat width of around 20-22 inches, compared to around 16-17 inches in standard economy, allowing for more personal space.
Many premium economy seats feature adjustable headrests, footrests, and lumbar support, enhancing the overall comfort level.
Airline food and beverage service is generally more extensive and of higher quality in premium economy compared to economy class.
Premium economy passengers often have access to dedicated check-in counters, priority boarding, and additional baggage allowance, reducing the hassle of travel.
The seat recline in premium economy is typically around 8 inches, compared to 5 inches or less in standard economy, providing a more relaxed seating position.
Some premium economy seats offer larger personal entertainment screens, with a wider selection of movies, TV shows, and music compared to economy class.
Noise-cancelling headphones and better sound quality are sometimes provided to premium economy passengers for an enhanced in-flight entertainment experience.
Increased privacy and a more peaceful cabin atmosphere are often cited as benefits of traveling in premium economy, compared to the busier and noisier standard economy class.
Frequent flyer mile accrual rates are typically higher in premium economy compared to economy, providing additional incentives for loyal customers.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Considering Seat Width and Cushioning for Long-Haul Flights
The distance between two rows of seats, also known as seat pitch, is a crucial factor in determining legroom.
More seat pitch means more legroom, which can greatly enhance comfort on long-haul flights.
Seat width, measured as the distance between the armrests of a single seat, is another important factor to consider.
Wider seats provide more personal space and can reduce feelings of being cramped.
Video type is an often-overlooked aspect of seat comfort.
Personal TVs with multiple channels offer more entertainment options and can make long flights more enjoyable.
Over the years, airplane seat dimensions have decreased, with the average seat width now at 16.5 inches.
This can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by up to 80%.
Innovative solutions are being developed by some airlines to improve passenger comfort, such as adjustable seat configurations and customizable in-flight entertainment options.
For maximum comfort and space, it's important to choose your seat wisely, taking into account factors like seat pitch, width, configuration, and legroom.
Staying hydrated is crucial on long-haul flights due to the dry cabin environment.
Dehydration can lead to discomfort and potential health issues.
SeatGuru's Comparison Charts can help you compare seating options among different airlines, as seat pitch and width can vary greatly, even among the same aircraft types for the same airline.
One or two extra inches of seat pitch can make a significant difference in comfort, providing additional legroom and more space between rows.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Selecting the Best Seats for Solo Travelers, Couples, and Families
Seat width and pitch are crucial for comfort - the distance between seats (pitch) and the width between armrests can make a big difference in leg and elbow room.
Exit row seats offer extra legroom, but may not recline and have restrictions on who can sit there (e.g., no small children).
Aisle seats are preferred by many solo travelers as they offer easier access to the restroom and boarding/deplaning, but middle seats tend to be cheaper.
Couples often prefer to sit together, either in window-middle or aisle-middle seat combinations, to have more personal space.
Families with young children should select seats near the front of the cabin to be closer to the restrooms and flight attendants for assistance.
The back of the plane is generally quieter, but can mean a longer walk to the front when deplaning.
Some airlines charge extra fees for advanced seat selection, so it's important to factor that into the total ticket price when comparing options.
Seat guru websites can provide detailed information on aircraft configurations and identify the best/worst seats for leg room, recline, and other features.
Airline seat assignment algorithms may prioritize seating couples together over solo travelers, so solo flyers should check in early.
Frequent flyer status or credit card perks can sometimes provide access to extra legroom or premium economy seats at no additional cost.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Minimizing Noise and Disturbance: Quieter Zones on the Plane
Airplane noise can cause annoyance, sleep disturbance, and even cardiovascular disease.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aims to reduce aircraft noise by 50% by 2050 compared to 2000 levels.
The "Quiet Zone" on a plane is typically located towards the front of the aircraft, often in the Economy Class section.
It is separated from the rest of the cabin by curtains, partitions, or even physical barriers like bulkheads, helping to minimize noise and disturbance.
Quieter planes will emerge mainly from the cumulative effects of design improvements, rather than from any single one.
The latest generation of single-aisle aircraft generates around 75-80 decibels of noise during landing, and engineers are aiming for a 1-3 decibel reduction per airframe element.
The ICAO's new certification standard will reduce the noise standard for civil aircraft by seven effective perceived noise level (EPNL) decibels, applying to new high-weight aircraft from 2017 and new low-weight craft from 2020.
This will reduce the total land area exposed to aircraft noise by 2% by 2026, removing 500,000 people from aircraft noise impact.
Los Angeles International Airport's "Fly Quieter" Program includes quieter aircraft and voluntary measures to aid in noise abatement, while the Fly Friendly Program was specifically designed to minimize noise from General Aviation (GA) or private use jet aircraft.
The noise contour is an area shown on a noise exposure map where the average daily aircraft noise level is equal to or greater than 65 decibels Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL), as designated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has spent more than $192 million since 1983 to insulate over 15,200 buildings as part of their efforts to reduce aircraft noise exposure in surrounding communities.
Noise is defined as "any unwanted sound that disturbs people or interferes with communication, work, rest, or recreation." The effects of noise can range from mild annoyance to severe health impacts, depending on the intensity, duration, and frequency of exposure.
The development of noise-canceling technology, improved engine design, and the use of soundproofing materials have all contributed to making newer aircraft significantly quieter than their predecessors.
When selecting your airplane seat, consider choosing a position towards the front of the cabin, as the Quiet Zone is typically located in this area, helping to minimize noise and disturbance during your flight.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Accessing Power Outlets and In-Flight Entertainment Options
Power Outlet Placement Varies: The location and availability of power outlets on airplanes can differ significantly between aircraft models and even within the same airline's fleet.
Aisle-side outlets are more common, but window-side outlets are also becoming more prevalent.
USB Charging Goes Mainstream: Nearly all modern aircraft now offer USB charging ports, either integrated into the seat or as a shared power hub.
These can be used to charge smartphones, tablets, and other personal electronic devices during the flight.
Seatback Screens Decline, Bring-Your-Own-Device Rises: While many airlines still offer seatback entertainment systems, there is a growing trend towards a "bring-your-own-device" model, where passengers can stream content to their personal smartphones and tablets via the aircraft's Wi-Fi network.
Seat Selection Impacts Amenities: Aisle seats, bulkhead seats, and exit row seats often have more legroom and storage space, but may not have access to power outlets or entertainment screens.
Window seats can provide more privacy but less convenient access to the aisle.
Seat Pitch and Width Matter: Seat pitch, the distance between seats, and seat width can significantly impact passenger comfort, especially on longer flights.
Researching these specifications can help you select the most suitable seat for your needs.
Consider Connecting Flights: When booking a flight, pay attention to the aircraft models used on each segment of your journey, as the amenities can vary considerably, even within the same airline's network.
Seat Upgrades Offer More Perks: Upgrading to a higher class of service, such as business or first class, can provide access to better entertainment options, larger seatback screens, and more power outlets, as well as additional legroom and amenities.
Inflight Wi-Fi Speeds Vary: The quality and speed of in-flight Wi-Fi can differ greatly between airlines and even between aircraft within the same airline's fleet.
Research the Wi-Fi capabilities before your flight to set appropriate expectations.
Airplane Seat Maps Provide Insights: Many airline and third-party websites offer detailed seat maps that can help you identify the best seats based on your preferences, such as proximity to power outlets, entertainment screens, or the lavatory.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Tracking Seat Availability and Upgrades with Flight Booking
Airlines often release additional seat inventory and upgrade space closer to the departure date, so it's important to keep checking availability even after your initial booking.
Certain credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, offer complimentary seat upgrade privileges, allowing cardholders to bypass the typical upgrade fees.
Airline elite status can provide priority access to upgrades, with higher-tier elites having a better chance of clearing an upgrade request.
Some airlines, like Delta, offer the ability to "waitlist" for an upgrade, which automatically processes the upgrade if space becomes available.
The time of day you book your flight can impact seat availability, as airlines often release more inventory during off-peak hours.
Booking one-way flights separately can sometimes provide more flexibility in accessing upgrade space, as opposed to booking a roundtrip.
Utilizing airline-specific tools, like American Airlines' "Systemwide Upgrades" search, can help identify flights with available upgrade space.
Paying attention to aircraft swap notifications can be crucial, as a change in airplane type can affect the available seat configurations and upgrade options.
Certain fare classes, such as full-fare economy or business class, are more upgrade-eligible than discounted economy tickets.
Combining elite status, credit card benefits, and strategic booking can maximize your chances of securing a coveted seat upgrade, even on seemingly full flights.
Insider Tips for Selecting the Perfect Airplane Seat - Airline Policies on Seat Selection and Assignments
Airline policies on seat selection and assignments can vary greatly.
Some airlines assign seats for free, while others charge a fee that can range from $5 to $50 per person, per segment.
When using an airline with an open seating policy, you can increase your chances of sitting with your family by selecting seats as soon as possible.
The earlier you choose the seats, the more likely it is that your entire family will be able to sit together.
If an airline changes your seat, you may be entitled to a refund.
For example, if you were downgraded from a seat with extra legroom to a regular economy seat, the airline will reimburse you the difference.
United Airlines offers maximum flexibility for travelers.
If you paid for seat selection on a flight that is canceled, you are entitled to a refund for that seat, including at the big three US airlines (United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines).
United Airlines recently announced a new family seating policy that allows kids 12 years old and under to sit next to an accompanying adult on basic economy fares at no extra cost.
Seat assignments on United Airlines start at 5 miles per person, per segment and vary by route and seat location in the aircraft.
Some airlines, such as Allegiant Airlines, do not guarantee that families will be seated together and recommend paying for seat selection at the time of booking to ensure adjacent seats.
When booking a flight on American Airlines, if you are unable to choose seats when you book, you can check back closer to departure or the airline will assign you a seat when you check in.
The redemption rate for seat selection fees on United Airlines is typically about 1 mile per dollar.
Advance seat assignments to passengers must either block an adequate number of bulkhead seats for passengers traveling with a service animal or who have a disability.