Choosing the right seat on a plane can really make or break your whole flight experience you guys. While some rows look amazing because they seem to have more space or offer quick exit times there are often hidden downsides that you might not notice until you are already buckled in and the plane is in the air. Let’s look at why that convenient spot might not be so great after all.
The Very Front Bulkhead Row
The front wall means no one is reclining into you which is great but you do not have any storage space under a seat in front of you for your small bag. Those tray tables are almost always inside the armrest making the seat itself just a little bit narrower and maybe slightly uncomfortable for a long journey in my opinion.
Rows That Are Missing A Window entirely
You think you are getting a great window seat but sometimes you get to the row and it is just a solid airplane wall right next to your head. If you like looking out or just need the natural light so you do not feel trapped it might be a huge bummer for the whole trip.
The Row Right In Front of An Emergency Exit
You are sitting there and you try to push the button but the seat does not recline at all because it can’t block the emergency path. Having to sit perfectly upright for many hours is really tough on your back and I find it quite hard to relax when I can’t lean back.
Sitting Right Behind the Engine
For me this row is just really loud the entire time and it can make it almost impossible to sleep or even watch a movie in peace. The constant engine roar is very draining for many passengers who do not have those fancy noise-canceling headphones.
Being Close to the Aft Lavatories
This is a really busy spot because there is always a line of people standing right next to your shoulder while they wait their turn. You also get all the noise from the door opening and closing and sometimes the smells can be quite unpleasant when the flight is full.
The Middle Seat In Any Row
We all know it is the worst because you are squished between two other people and you do not have easy aisle access or a window to lean against. You always feel like you are on display or in someone’s way especially if you need to use the restroom during the flight.
Seats In the Very Last Row
Similar to the exit rows these seats frequently do not recline because they are right up against the back wall of the aircraft. You are also the absolute last person to get off the plane which can be very stressful if you have a tight connection to make.
Right Next to the Galley Kitchen
This area is constantly bustling with flight attendants preparing carts and chatting which makes it a very noisy place to be. You also have to deal with the bright lights that stay on even when the rest of the cabin is dark for sleeping.
The First Economy Row Behind Business
A lot of passengers like this spot because you get served food very quickly after takeoff which is nice if you are hungry. However that little curtain between sections sometimes drifts into your face or people use your seat back for support when walking which is annoying in my opinion.
Non-Standard Seats on Small Planes
Sometimes small regional planes have rows with less cushioning or weirdly angled walls because of how the plane curves. I once had a seat that felt completely tilted and my legs were cramping after just an hour so it is good to always check the detailed seat maps for those smaller flights.
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