
A disadvantage of these seats is that the tray tables are tucked into the armrests on some aircraft and as a result, you can't lift the armrests. You also have easier access to the aisles regardless of whether you are sitting in an exit or the aisle seat. Exit row seats are located next to the emergency exit rows, and have significantly greater legroom than standard seats.

SeatGuru (noted just below) can help you avoid this. Poor foot room can be a major annoyance and source of discomfort on long flights. This can significantly compromise foot room for those seated behind. On well-equipped aircraft, some seats in each row may have entertainment electronics installed underneath. The third possibility is middle seats, which combine the disadvantages of both aisle and window seats without the advantages of either, although taller passengers may still be able to see the view from the window. Some airlines will disembark those with connections first before disembarking those that have reached their final destinations. Planes usually disembark row-by-row, so a seat further forward will often get you out at your destination quicker than an aisle seat farther back. On long flights, though, it's hard to sleep with people walking by, seatmates climbing over you, and the risk of an elbow being hit by a service trolley.

You may also have slightly less floor space due to the curvature of the plane, and the wall can become quite cool.Īisle seats are the choice of some road warriors, because they make it easy to get out and off the plane. The major downside is that you'll have to clamber over a seatmate or two to go to the bathroom or access any of your carry-ons in the overhead (although most airlines also allow you to stow baggage under the seat in front of you). Window seats are popular with many flyers, as they allow you to look out the window, rest your head against it while sleeping and not be disturbed by other passengers. What's desirable? Different seat types on a plane have advantages over others: If you are checking in at the airline's counter with no seat yet assigned, you should ask if a desirable seat is still available. If so, visit its web-site soon after, and if dissatisfied with the automatic selection, see if you can choose another inter-actively from all available seats on the plane in your cabin class.

If seats are not designated, passengers take them by a first-come rule.Ī few airlines do not assign seats (e.g., Southwest), but do assign you a boarding group based on how early you confirm your flight on-line within 24 hours of the flight.Īs they receive your booking for a specific flight, most airlines will promptly assign you a seat. This is a travel topic, and an appendix to Fundamentals of flying and Tips for flying.Īircraft seats can be designated at booking, or at check-in at the airport.
