What Makes a Great Seat? Typically, exit rows,
aisle or window seats, and seats nearer to the front of the plane are
considered the best. Be careful: not all exit or "bulkhead" rows are
created equal. On some planes, the first bulkhead row may be cramped and
uncomfortable.
In some cases you might not want a bulkhead
seat. Like if you have 2 carry-ons. This is because you don't have
the extra space under the seat in front of you that you normally would.
You might have to set your bag in a different part of the plane or they
might have to check it in.
Some other things to consider: On a short
business trip, you probably want an aisle seat near the front of the
plane. On an overnight flight, you'll want a window seat so you can rest
your head. Nervous fliers may want to sit over the wing, where there is
less turbulence. Rows near flight attendant areas and restrooms may be
noisier and experience more traffic, and seats very close to cabin movie
screens can be uncomfortable, or bright if you are trying to
sleep.
If you are flying a red-eye (overnight) flight
and the planes not too full you can usually move around to a
seat that has vacant seats on both sides and then you can stretch out for
a nice sleep. But note that you are required to keep a seatbelt on and
visible. This is often more comfortable than the first class cabin seats
because the first class cabin seats often don't recline fully. And the
window tends to be too far away from your head. If you are on a red-eye
flight and cannot find 3 vacant seats, you still can get some
sleep if you have those neck pillows that go around your neck.
They are very useful. They keep your head from falling over and waking you
up.
Another thing to consider is whether the plane
has engines near the tail of the plane. If it does, you may not want to
get a seat near the back of the plane. It gets pretty loud back there. If
you don't have a choice in the matter, bring your noise cancelling
headphones.
Aircraft seat maps vary by airline and
type of plane. If you know exactly what seat you want, it can be easier
for agents to get it for you. Instead of asking for an exit row, or "a
good seat," if you can ask for "12A," you're more likely to get what you
want.
