BEST Plane Seats Revealed (and which to avoid at all costs!)
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- Опубликовано: 9 май 2024
- Get ready to find out the best seats on a plane, and the plane seats every traveler should avoid. We will dive into the pros and cons of sitting in a window, middle, or aisle seat as well as if the front of the back is better so you know exactly where to sit on your flight. We'll also talk about United Airlines' new boarding process, WILMA, and how it can affect where you should sit.
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🐶 Chapters
00:00 Where to sit on the plane
00:22 Window seats
01:22 Aisle seats
02:46 Best for nervous traveler
03:07 Middle seats
03:33 BIG airline update (changes things!)
04:18 Why I WON'T book aisle seat
05:07 Right or left side?
05:36 Front of the plane
05:59 Why I avoid the front
06:21 Get a full row of seats
06:35 Most turbulence
06:45 Safest seat
07:00 WORST seats
07:17 Seat HACK
07:37 Bulkhead seats - should you book?
08:10 Exit row seats - should you book?
08:25 Aisle seat HACK
08:54 My FAVORITE seat
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On a recent long flight from Europe to the US, I was on the aisle seat next to a couple, and we quickly came up with a clever way for the bathroom routine during the flight -- we'd all three go at one time and stand in line, with the person in the window going first, then the middle, then the aisle (me). That way no one disrupted another person getting in and out.
These good people are rare. But yes, that’s a good plan.
and what if you don't have to go
how did you program 3 human bodies to all need to go to the toilet at the same time????? lol U you really think all 3 people sitting in a row is all gonna want to go to the toilet at the same time?
@charlesjay8818 you already eat at the same time on the plane, sleeping periods are already programmed as the lights on the plane will be dimmed at specific times and combine that with general digestion of an average human being .
@@woble9795 and what with a person with a weak bladder?
It is proven that if you drink beer that you have to go more.
I used to fly a lot and I remember when the gate crew had to physically look at you before they would assign you to the exit row. They needed to make sure you were actually able to move the door if there was an emergency. Now, they will sell it to whomever pays for it first.
A shout out to the cabin crew on American flight from Miami to Buenos Aires. I had purchased my ticket close to the date of the flight and was only able to get a middle seat. My seat mates were huge and I was effectively pinned into my seat on each side by their girth. Once we were at altitude the stewardess asked me to come to the back galley. It was difficult for the aisle seated passenger to get up so i stood on my seat and stepped over them. In the back galley she said she had noticed my predicament but could not put me in a higher class but could put me in the flight attendant seat next to the exit hatch. It had a 4 point harness and I could sprawl out. Best flight ever. Thanks American cabin crew!😊
I feel your pain, brother. And when you said, " . . . so i stood on my seat and stepped over them. . . " I burst out laughing picturing you doing that. (Air travel sucks.)
@@terry_willis_ thoughts and prayers that is not any reference to UAs' current crap i.e. wing clipping et al ..!,¿
@@terry_willis_ used armrests like stepping stone(s) once - worked well .. ....
I remember the time when all the seats were occupied and an overweight passenger sat down hard and broke his seat. Having seen me chatting to the pilot before boarding, the stewardess resolved the problem by putting me on the flight deck. The journey seemed a lot quicker with so much to chat about.
This was back in the 1970's, how things have changed, but certainly not for the better.
You must mean an FA seat since jump seats are in the cockpit and you would not be allowed up there unless you were an airline employee.
What frustrates the heck out of me is the lack of size enforcement!!! I have seen all too many times, a 26" bag taken on board as a carry-on, inevitably taking up an entire bin. While we are at this rant: I have seen people board with 2 full size carry on, rather than one overhead and one under the seat bag. No wonder there is no room for everyone's baggage. Argh. End of rant. Thank you for your informative videos. They are very useful!
I hear your frustration, Louise! Glad to hear you enjoy the videos!
@louiseahrens5575 THANK YOU! I see this all the time and it's infuriating. There are all of these rules and yet some people take their entire house onto the plane.
And then there are the people sitting in the back who stow their bag in the front - I guess because they don’t have to worry about their compartment being full, or (horrors!) having to wheel their bags all the way back to their seat. This leaves the people in the front waiting until everyone disembarks so they can go backwards to get their own bag. Rude!
I deal with this all the time and share your frustration. As a photographer my gear is not checkable and so I have to make sure my bags are "regulation." That said, different airlines have different rules so I have bags for those situations.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who's noticed the huge carryons and personal items. How do they let them get away with that?
Another possible consideration when choosing which side of the plane to sit on is where the sun will be. If (for example) you choose a window seat on the right side of the plane, on a flight heading north in the morning hours, you are likely to be roasted (or blinded) by the sun coming in your window. If you want to enjoy the view on such a flight, it would be better to choose the left side of the plane.
Good tip! Thanks, Mark!
Or shut the blind..
@@GWJUK Yes, that works, but if you chose the window seat in order to enjoy the view, it kind of defeats the purpose.
They’re called ‘window shades’
@@debbylou5729 They might be called shades but as suggested, on many flights you will be blinded by the sun if you don't use them and if you put them down, you may as well be blind so far as looking at the view goes. So I think blinds is a more accurate description of them.
My wife and I fly from the West Coast to SE Asia once a year. I'm about to turn 70 am in fairly good health but last trip forgot to keep drinking water and unknowingly got very dehydrated. It took two days to recover and I was not at all well. Very important to keep drinking water during long flights.
In cabin humidity level is like a desert.
Most Asian carriers usually feed and water you very well on long trips while U.S. based carriers don’t. Asian carrier flight attendants are usually walking the isles at all times to see if you need a drink or something else. I’ve only flown U.S. carriers a few times for international trips and I’ve had to ask for drinks multiple times on each flight.
I've noticed this on Singapore airlines ... The flight attendants were always around whereas US and other westernize carriers rarely walk around checking on passengers during cabin dark time. Having said that, Delta to Japan, I brought a bottle of water and did not even have to open it as I was constantly being offered refreshments from the flight attendants. Very pleasant flight.@@lmcc0072
@@lmcc0072 I'm going to Vietnam soon and WILL NOT fly US airlines. Working on Japan or EVA Air.
I do aisle seats always. As someone who is tall I need the space. I don’t mind getting up to let people pass.
I'm not tall, but I also prefer the aisle seat. I don't mind getting up for others, but I don't like asking others to get up for me.
Same here. But I also do not mind paying for an Exit row seat because I need the legroom. Yes it’s a bit noisier and usually by the attendants galley but for me it’s worth it. No one is leaning back on you and being able to stretch my legs and not get up for someone needing to go to the bathroom really helps. Also on a long flight I can get up to stretch without standing in the aisle.
I choose the aisle seat bc I have claustrophobia
I used to travel by plane a lot, I always preferred a window seat for the reasons mentioned in this video and never bothered to analyze it so deep - thank you for it!
Thanks for watching, Alexander!
You Analyzed That unconsciously
Regarding United’s WILMA boarding arrangement…I flew United economy to Brussels this past September, aisle seat in a 4 seat center section configuration. I had absolutely no problem finding room in the overhead bin. In fact, the bin above me had my seat number on it! According to United, enough space is being allocated for everyone to have one appropriately sized bag in the overheads. In my situation, the bin with my seat number on it fit exactly one carry on. Probably would have fit my personal item too but I kept that under the seat in front of me. Being a guy in his 60’s, I need fairly frequent access to the lavatory so aisle seats will continue to be my first choice.
Good to know! I plan to fly United to Europe this summer.
I've only had problems in airplanes with 3-3 configuration. I believe not only are there more storage bins on 2-4-2 or 3-3-3, they also have more space in the bins.
I love that you used the phrase “ask permission” to get by if sitting in the window seat, that actually perfectly describes how I feel when I have to say it. I actually don’t mind getting up if in an aisle seat to let others out, that gives me an “unscheduled” chance to stretch. WilMA vs. WILMA maybe? “If you dislike people…😅” Thanks for the seat guru tip, I had forgotten about that. Great video Megan!
It's great having you on the channel! Thanks for watching!
@@PortableProfessional thank you, always learning! Taking a trip Tuesday from Albany, NY to Orlando, FL to visit family and, hopefully, find a place to live - the cold has finally gotten to me.
I just got back from a trip to England from Seattle. I paid the extra $40 to choose my seat to and from England, which worked out well as the middle seat remained unoccupied on both legs. I didn't bother paying to choose a seat from London to Manchester because the flight was so short, but unfortunately I got stuck in the very back (no reclining) window seat (only, no window, just a bulkhead) and the under seat space for my bag was rather cramped, not leaving much space for my feet. Fortunately, on my way back, I arrived early for check in and told the lady about my flight from London and asked to be seated anywhere but that location and she offered me a window seat in the emergency exit row.
I usually always request an isle seat though, for the reasons you mentioned. I don't mind standing up if someone in my row needs to use the bathroom as I see it as a chance to stretch my legs anyway, and I'd rather not have to deal with asking other people to move for me.
Seats only recline one inch these days. Not even worth pushing the recline button.
Depends on the aircraft ... My recent Singapore flight to Singapore was awful because the person in front of me was able to recline so far back that the screen was mere inches from my face so I could not use the entertainment system. Very uncomfortable.@@carollynt
An absolute game changer for non-reclining seats is a foam cervical neck brace with velcro closure. It supports the head to sleep comfortably, rolls up compactly, and weighs next to nothing. Absolute must for long-range buses and flights.
I fly regularly with Ryanair, and they have the good sense to use both the forward and rear doors for embarking and disembarking, which makes the process so much quicker.
The also have a system of priority and non-priority boarding, which deals with the issue of carry-on bags. If you pay extra for priority boarding, you can bring a carry-on bag, which addresses the issue of limited overhead bin space.
As regards using the toilet, I usually go before boarding and am good to go (or not to go) for must flights of up to 3 hours duration.
Finally! Someone came up with a better way to board. I used to live in Oslo and before the Gardemoen Airport was built the smaller really older airport of For ego in town was used. SAS allowed a free for all boarding as they could open and board both the front and the back area of the aircraft.
I used to be a window person but since I got a DVT in my leg, i am now an aisle person . I always upgrade my seats 💺 for the little extra legroom. It makes a big difference and is worth the extra money .
One of my concerns and one of the reasons why I do aisles for long hauls.
Window and I do pay for early seat selection at time of booking, it's worth it for me to start my vacation with seating as far forward as possible which helps with overhead bin availability. Hate that seat fee but generally always happy with the overall result.
After flying to Europe, in an aisle seat, beside a, very lovely, elderly couple, who needed about 6 toilet breaks each, I changed my preferences to the aisle on short flights, and the window on long flights.
Yeah that can be a pain ... I always preferred window seats for domestic flights but realized the hard way that it does not work for me on long hauls ... I get claustrophobic sitting at the window seat especially as most flight crew want the window shades down. I can rarely sleep on the long hauls anyways so it's aisle for me.
Thanks for sharing all your great advice. My family is going to Africa this summer and I have been watching your videos and taking notes. 😊 While we have a lot of experience traveling internationally, there’s always something new to learn to improve the traveling experience.
Bulkhead seats are awesome!. Just pack things you want during the flight in a plastic bag at the top of your personal item. Toss it on your seat, put your personal item in the overhead bin, then tuck the bag in the seat pocket on the bulkhead. That way they are safe from anything nasty in the seat pocket.
Great planning! Happy travels!
I love the idea of putting my most needed items during a flight in a plastic bag. I'll use a Ziplock baggie to put my mini tablet, chargers, hand sanitizer, tissues, lip balm, etc. in the seat pocket!
I don't mind bulkhead seats either and I do the same thing...I carry my essentials in a small bag I can stuff in the pocket that's affixed to the wall across from me. I once flew to Vienna on Austrian Airlines with two broken legs in boot casts. I was given these seats free of charge by the flight attendant when he saw my condition. One problem with bulkhead seats if you're in the middle row, people from left and right aisles will try to cross over your legs to get to the washroom. One passenger started to climb over my legs and the flight attendant barked at him to stop. I had the best care on that flight. Another time I flew back from Vienna with a cat I'd rescued and I had paid up front for a bulkhead seat, forgetting you can't store anything in front of your feet. The flight attendant moved me and my cat to a better seat in premium economy..
I have a bad knee and need to stretch out frequently. Bulkhead seats are good for this.
Aisle seats in the middle section of a widebody with the other two or three seats already selected is a great choice. You can get up whenever you want without bothering anyone and the other seats are likely travelling as a group and will likely climb over each other rather than disturb a stranger (you).
That is exactly what I hope for when booking that seat! Happy travels!
Good point. My first thought was, if there's three seats, the person in the middle might decide to go either way. I got lucky flying home from Bangkok the other day. Second leg of the trip, ICN-JFK, I was on the aisle of the middle section (4 seats across), with an empty seat next to me. Woo hoo! :)
I try for a midsection aisle with the other aisle seat already gone- being that the middle seat is the worst choice, there's always a chance that it will stay vacant so that you and that guy on the other aisle can have a bit of elbow room - and not have to communicate !
I prefer the aisle in the centre section too. They often don't have anybody in the middle seat anyway, and I think they are quieter, being away from the body of the aeroplane.
That's my strategy. Same when selecting seats in any 3 seat configeration@@gdj6298
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I always choose an emergency exit seat because of the leg room and the fact that the seat in front doesn't recline.
booked a direct flight to UK on AA. Paid extra to sit 3rd row from back because it is a 777 and the back three outside rows are only 2 seats instead of 3. So as a couple means easy access to bathrooms (and last time we got offered more free snacks!) Only downside other than engine noise is bathroom traffic but still 2 rows away so...
I flew United from San Francisco to Hong Kong in Economy Plus beginning of November 2023 and we didn't have to do Wilma. My husband always wants window seats and I like aisle seats and most of the time we are lucky and don't get anyone seated between us so we have the aisle to ourselves. I can't sleep sitting up so I will take a neck pillow and lay a compact pillow over it and set it in the empty seat and try to get some sleep laying over into the empty seat. I have done this numerous times on many different flights, on many different airlines and no one has ever said anything to me about it. If a flight attendant did, I would immediately stop and not make a big deal of it. Their plane, their rules. Also, I don't mind people asking me to move to use the restroom if someone is seated in the middle seat between myself and my husband. In the rare cases we have had someone sit in between us I always tell them to please let me know if they ever need to get out of their seat and it's not a problem for me to move to let them out. As for the food and beverage carts, my experience is that the flight attendants don't lean over you to get to the window or middle seat passengers. If those passengers aren't able to get their drinks or food, I get it for them and pass it to them and it's not an issue at all. I've not had one person leaning over me or in front of me to pass anything. For overhead bins, I have personally seen families bring on 2 full size suitcases a piece and take up the overhead bin space and there are 2 ways to deal with that. Tell the flight attendants and let them deal with those people or check your bag in. Since I fly internationally now most flights I take, my husband and I check in our main luggage and just bring carry ons that can go in front of us under the seats. We have realized it's a lot easier for us to get on and off the planes quickly without that extra luggage and it hasn't been a problem getting our luggage from baggage check at our end destinations. We can quickly get through airports and we haven't had any problems. The fees, if any, to check in luggage is worth it to us for the convenience of not having to deal with it.
Great analysis Megan. FWIW my wife and I always select an aisle seat opposite each other or behind each other as neither of us are great sleepers on flights - that has included 14-16 hour flights to Japan, India etc. Over 100 countries and hundreds of flights. We also prefer to be within 2 or 3 rows of toilets as we can see when they are available and not spend lots of time in lines.
Good idea, thanks
One advantage of middle seats is that there's usually more space under the seat in front of you to store your "personal item". Window and aisle seats are a little smaller due to the curve in the aircraft body and possible equipment under the aisle seat in front of you.
OMG it’s about time! I’ve been asking this for years!……but I always pick a window seat, and chose the middle seats
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Due to many slimmer longhaul planes lacking a crew rest, resting crew are seated in the regular cabin. In the case of the 767, several rear economy seats are designed for FA rest & are specifically designed with extra legroom, more recline & footrests. They are sold as revenue seats on shorter flights.
Megan, great tips as always. You really thought a lot of these things out based on your experience.
Thanks, Nathan! Glad you think so!
As always, great content Megan. Wish there was THE best seat, but.... very good info
Thanks! I think the BEST seat is different for everyone!
I have a flight on American Airlines and I chose seats 12C both going and coming home. It's an aisle seat toward the front, but far enough from the absolute front of the plane. I like aisle seats. I use my noise cancelling headphones most of the flight, and I do not mind getting up for the window and middle (usually empty anyway) seat folks to use the bathroom because it means I get a chance to stretch when I get up. I will NEVER EVER sit in a bulkhead seat. No place for my carry on bag with all my essentials, and looking at a wall is boring. My only complaint about the aisle seat is during food and beverage service. I feel like I have to scrunch in my seat so they can get by. Thank you for informing us about the WILMA for United flights. I will either choose another airline, or book early for a window seat. I will NEVER EVER sit in a middle seat. I can't stand being sandwiched between others. I get very claustrophobic. Flying is SHIT anymore.
My favourite seat is the pilots seat but it's always taken by the pilot so I would settle for a window seat either over the wings or an isle seat second last from the back of the plane.
Another excellent video, thank you for sharing.
Thanks, Geoff! I expect your selection will be more relaxing than than the pilots seat!
Geoff, I would say that you taking the pilot's seat would NOT be relaxing for everyone else on the plane!!!
@@dacorum8053 it was a joke so chill, anyway I can actually fly a plane. I have flown planes before.
@@geoff1971 And my reply was a joke as well!
@@dacorum8053 sorry, sometimes people take my comments wayyyyy too seriously, have an awesome day no matter where you are on the planet 😀
Flying in June . Aisle seat always on a 2-3-2 config. love your tips. Fellow Canadian from Nova Scotia.
I enjoyed your video. Thank you for this information! ❤
You are so welcome!
My preference is an aisle seat. I can get claustrophobic and the aisle seat lets me stretch my legs which helps. I will add another possible con to the aisle seat though. On some airlines the asile underseat storage is narrower than the window and center seats. That can make it difficult to impossible to get even some airline approved underseat bags to fit.
Good to know! Thanks for sharing that!
Great tips! Thank you!
I agree 100% ... Prefer aisle for long hauls but hate the fact that under seat storage (and leg room) can be limited on some aircraft.
I usually book window seats but after my trip to Spain last month I was so sore and needed to get up often. Since it’s almost impossible to sleep on a flight I think I’ll be booking aisle going forward.
P.s if you hear that AirCanada will follow the same boarding rules as United, please let us know. 😊
I prefer the exit rows on Southwest, but recently we had to fly Delta, and not knowing better, I booked the exit row on an A321 from ATL to MBJ . . . four hours and a beautiful approach into Jamaica with NO WINDOW
Aisle seats are pretty much a must for me because i am tall and i travel almost exclusively to Southeast Asia. My tip is too not use US based carriers. They pretty much pack you on a plane like sardines. The seat pitch is vastly superior on an middle east or Asian based carrier like Qatar or Eva airline.
Good to hear about Qatar. About to fly on a long flight on that airline.
Correct about EVA our airlines we always use never NA based ones
@@bananaanna1373 I used Qatar once on a flight to Bangkok from Chicago and would not hesitate to fly with them again. I was hesitant at first because of the potential Muslim bias, but that concern was unfounded. The flight attendants were more than courteous, even for those of us in basic economy, and the meals served were accommodating and tasty.
@@cdnsilverdaddy I have flown on JAL and ANA airlines. I've flown once on Cathay Pacific. I had a pleasant experience using Cathay Pacific. I had a connection in Hong Kong. My flight arrived early with a 4 hour lay over connection to Bangkok. They had seats available on an earlier flight to BKK. The Airline was courteous enough to book me on an earlier flight to BKK at no additional cost. I am grateful to them for that.
I have a pending flight on EVA Air for May 2024. I pretty much expect the same experience as EVA Air have consistently ranked amongst the best Airline service on the globe.
@@themorn2112 EVA's service even in Economy is superb... they are so nice...
Great video, I'm in Canada and tried Porter for the first time, it was their newer jets and must say I will take them when I can (limited routes) the included wi-fi amazing, compared to Air Canada and others that charge for everything..
Ty for this testimonial, I’ve been wondering about them
My parents always maintained Porter was the best.
Great video. Thanks for posting this. Have a nice day.
Thanks, you too!
That was detailed and very accurate !!!
My favorite seats on long international flights are the first full row just behind the center of cabin bathrooms. People avoid them, probably because of the noise from the bathrooms. On many occasions I have had the whole row to myself. Noise cancelling ear buds take care of the noise, and you can easily see if a bathroom is open.
Happy travels, George!
But… stinky
On long flts, seats very close to bathroom can smell on a very long flts.
My pet peeve is people who sit in economy storing their bags in the overhead compartment in premium economy which is a different
class than they have paid for and thus denying me what I paid for. (Edited to properly clarify my statement.)
I agree! Thanks for watching, William!
Why? There is no reserved space. Put your bag in the first place where it will fit.
@@randallgvideos Had a connecting flight that was late in arriving in premium economy so I boarded with economy and there was no room for my carry on. The bins are labeled prem economy. Someone from economy came forward after we landed and took out two bags. So yeah I have a gripe. I paid for that section. They had two bags not one. They were not sitting in my section.
@@williamdrake2315 I've never seen labeled bins! If I did I would honour that.
In the very back seats there is no overhead storage. It's all emergency equipment.
I agree about the emergency exit row, paid extra for that extra leg space and felt like in a freezer regardless of the sweater and jacket. Never again!
Thanks so much MEGAN for your travel TIPS.
My pleasure! Thanks for watching!
Actually in some planes the back row seats do recline. But my best advice is to fly business any time possible, especially on long hauls. If not an option, I prefer an aisle seat any time.
Thanks for watching!
@wncjan Business or First Class is great on long haul or ultra long haul if you are a rich guy with lots of money, or your company is paying for it. But quite a few of us are travellers who don’t have that kind of money. I always fly the cheapest seats in the back of the plane.
@@robertwilliamson922 I'm definitely not rich and my company don't pay but I rather fly less often, like every second or third year instead of every year to save up enough for a business class ticket.
@@wncjan That’s nice. But I would rather have all that extra money in my pocket or bank account, instead of the airline’s bank account.
I’ll still get to the destination at the same time and just as fast as the folks up in first class/business class for a few thousand bucks less.
(My international flights are fourteen and a half hours long or more. Big difference in cost between Economy seats in the back and the First Class/Business Class way up front.)
@@robertwilliamson922 To each his own. I actually flew economy from Denmark to Charlotte via JFK last year, and my ba k hurt for my whole stay, so I couldn't a tually enjoy my vacation. I support Madeline Albright who said "If the Lord had meant for us to fly econony, he would have created us narrower"!
On the bigger widebody jets that seat 3-3-3 or 3-4-3 in economy, the back section is ideal where the fuselage width tapers off thus making it 2-3-2 or 2-4-2 in the last few rows. Scored a "free" upgrade on a Lufthansa 747 a while back as the 2nd from last row gave me more strech room!
Only if you aren't in a rush, because you'll be getting off last with about 300 or so passengers ahead of you.
Great advice! Many thanks!
Very Helpful, thank you! Bookmarked a few of the sites you suggested.
I like aisle seats. Makes my journey bit less stressful.
If the flight is under 2 hours I try the window seat as I usually won't need the restroom in that short period of time. Longer flights I try to get the aisle seat so I do not have to bother anyone and I do not mind standing up to let the middle or window seated person get out as it gives me a nice opportunity to stand and stretch.
Why do you call it rest room? Toilet is universally accepted word.
@@jebaranidavid2217
Absolutely, surely staying in your seat is better for resting.
I also don't like when people say "bathroom". I want a piss not a bath! 🤣
Megan, it is not fair that you are so sensible and more beautiful than all of us here -- hehehe ! I am excited to be going on a Dreamliner, 787 to the UK and my dream to board an A380 jet going back to USA. I picked the right side going so I can try to view London as it nears Heathrow and I always get a window seat as you mentioned so I can lean to sleep better and I don't mind being on the colder side. The seats I like are just past the wing so I can get a good view. But I am going to take your advice after I post this to SeatGuru to see how I match up to my seating picks. Megan you are wonderful and love watching you always !
Thank you for sharing where to sit on whatever aircraft!!
My pleasure! Hope it helps for your next flight!
@@PortableProfessional Thanks It is nice to see what passengers feel about the best place to sit. For me, having been a former Purser Flight Attendant from our Chicago airline has helped me travel since I have left my former airline! ☺ Smile
My seat choice depends on the length of flight. I can put up with just about anything if it is a 2 hour flight. However, if I were on a flight that was maybe 8-10 hours, I prefer the ones behind a bulkhead. I understand the issue with the storage, but to me comfort and leg room take precedence on a flight over 4 hours. It's easier to hang in till you get there on shorter flights
Thanks for watching, Ashley!
So I just read the United article on "Wilma" they expect using the process will save 2 minutes off the total boarding process. Yep, you read that right TWO minutes. With the fights over the overhead space or gate checking bags, I doubt it will decrease time at all.
Some air crew members aren’t paid until the door closes, or the aircraft is pushed back. It helps if customers can be courteous.
Thanks for the video. Thought I already knew the best seats and avoidable seats. Seems I learned a lot. The update on WILMA was new info. So thank you!
My pleasure, Barry! Glad it was helpful!
I paid extra for a center row isle seat but when my connecting flight from Edmonton to Calgary got delayed I had to fly on the next flight from Calgary to London Heathrow 6 hours later and the only seat available was - wait for it- middle seat in the very back row. Right by the bathrooms.
My prefered seat is always inside the plane. With all the airlines changing the planes used on many routes, my careful seat selection is often changed by the airline when they upsize (rare) downsize ( more common) the aircraft they use.
Agreed! A seat ON the aircraft, not bumped so you have a seat in the airport you have to stay in for a couple more hours of waiting for the next flight.. and IF you're lucky you get a meal voucher for one of the fast food outlets..
😂
Rarely downgrade
I prefer a window bc of the views. Generally speaking I’ve had good luck simply waiting to visit the bathroom until one other person in my row needs to go. That way it’s fewer interruptions for the person that has to let us out. That said, I’m considering choosing a middle aisle next time just so I can move around anytime I like
Happy travels, Michael!
Great job 🎉. Quite helpful. Thanks
Yes the Seatgru is one of the best sights as you can check out any airline & see what they say about your seat. Great video.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
You failed to mention a major disadvantage of the window seat is that the overhead locker inhibits getting in and out of your seat unless you are extremely small!
Interesting because MythBusters tested different boarding strategies and I think they found while "WLMA" does work the fastest, it gained the least customer satisfaction (based on their small-scale test which was some 100 people, probably not representative of the total population but interesting regardless). In the end, I think they found that boarding by section gained the highest approval rate, and a reasonable time for passengers to board and be seated. It wasn't the fastest, but wasn't the slowest either. Personally I think boarding from the back to the front makes more sense, although those who maybe are more towards the front (and maybe paid a bit more for their seat to be closer to the front) may find that they don't have bin space, and perhaps one reason this has NOT been implemented. In some respects, this does reward passengers that would sit in the rear of the plane more. They board first, and get first dibs on bin space).
I still think that Southwest's "no assigned seating" procedure is still best. The only downside is the "lottery" system during check-in which does dictate which boarding group you board on and if you get in during group B you're chances of a bin are greater than group C. Obviously Group A people (which I think is 0-49) have the greatest chance of bin space and preferred seating. With Group C having the least chance and worst seating (middle row usually). If you're not traveling with bags or at least a carry-on then it's less of an issue. But personally I just pay the extra $15 fee to get in Group A (this way I'm automatically checked in and I get on in the first group so the first 50 seats basically, which means I will pretty much get a bin and a window or aisle seat, and for me, this is worth the $15 each time. And in reality, the $15 is nothing compared to what other airlines charge, which might be upwards of $50 or more. Generally they will offer other perks like a free checked bag which might even this out (since SW doesn't charge for checked bags usually -- assuming you have 2 or less both under 50 lbs each of course). The other advantage of SW's boarding system with the Early Bird access is that in most cases, you can get a seat over or in front of the engines, which is idea from a noise perspective (not that sitting behind them is terrible, but a bit more noisy and I've found on some places, behind the engines against the window may mean a bit more vibration from the engines, not a huge deal but worth noting, but is actually the case for most planes where the engines are located in the wing section).
While statisticcally the front and middle section of the plane may be safer, this is based on nose-first crashes, but neglects some other possibilities (that have happened) such as tail detachment (which is probably less common, although there have been some cases where the tail has been ripped off or worse yet, the rear section of the plane is ripped off for any number of reasons, usually due to poor repair or defects, not so much crashes themselves). And regarding families and children, I'm surprised airlines don't have a "children only" section (sort of like a church) where it would be sectioned off by a divider and some sort of door perhaps -- they could still install an emergency exit in this section) to keep noise down, maybe even offer a small discount for these seats so either those with children or those who want to save a few dollars, can sit in this section, but with the catch of flying in an area where there may be children, and thus, a little more noise). Or maybe charge an extra $10 for everyone else who is NOT in this section.
Thank you, excellent advise.
thank you for this video, I totally share your opinion and tips after a few million miles in the air!!
Thanks so much for the info. I always get a window seat so I can see the view. It always makes the cost of the ticket worth it. I can't imagine paying all this money and then having nothing to look at, especially since you are thousands of feet in the air and there are spectacular views to see outside of the plane. And I always get seat a few rows behind the wings so that they won't block my view.
My pleasure! Enjoy the view on your next flight!
A lot of airlines charge extra for seat selection,i usually wait and get whatever they give me,then when everyone has boarded the plane i walk around and see which seats aren’t occupied,often I end up with a whole row to myself !😃
Some airlines allow free seat selection during the 24 hr check in before flight but the choice will be more limited. Your system seems to work well for you though! Happy travels!
You’re so smart and very practical!
Exactly! Most Airlines don't really care where you sit once airborne. Air Canada for example.KLM gave me a tip in 3x4x3 configuration. Go to the back in the middle and you can often find 4 empty seats across to sleep. I respectfully remove my shoes and wrap my feet in my jacket. I'm always very polite with flight attendants an d always give them a warm smile and freindly greeting. They appreciate that considering the rude demanding people they come across.
The other advantage of aisle seats (or any seat really) in the middle section of a plane, is that if nobody is sitting next to you, sometimes you can lay down over the seats (airlines frown upon this but I've done it a ew times on long haul flights that were honestly not that full). Plus if you don't have anyone sitting next to you, you could take the center seat and have tray tables on both sides (and seats) you could put stuff in if you want to work during the flight (again, airlines don't really like this, some won't let you do this, but some will).
Thank you for a thorough analysis of seat selection. For shorter trips (less than 4 hours) I don't care where I sit. I learned the hard way NOT to opt for the aisle seat if I need to sleep on the flight. Even if I luck out with not having to get up much for my middle and window seat mates, the non-stop aisle traffic makes it hard to stay asleep.
I became a dedicated aisle-seat fan after a few flights where clouds obscured the view from my window seat for the entire trip; if there's no view, might as well pick the generally most convenient seat. The seat I will most likely be selecting the next time will be an aisle seat on an aircraft not owned by United or any of its regional affiliates: when I heard about United's new WILMA boarding protocol, I realized that my ability to travel carryon-only without messing with baggage handling and pickup would effectively be ended if I wanted an aisle seat...I don't normally fly on United, but it's sad that they concocted this boarding scheme...
I like window seats for the view. And clouds can also be very beautiful !
I'd just recently flown on a few flights and I selected my seats to be at the rear of the plane, hoping to be allowed to board before most of the other economy passengers. This worked out to be the case. 😁 Alas, the overhead bins for the last 4 rows are now reserved for crew members and emergency equipment. 😞 Is this now common practice for most airlines? Or did I just choose the wrong airlines to fly with (Air Canada and United)?
Very informative! Do you know if United will be implementing WILMA on Economy Plus fares as well? I have some travel in Europe this summer and South America in the fall and will likely end up
flying United on both!
You covered everything, Megan. Good job! As for noise, I own an MP3 player with about eight hours of music storage on it plus noise cancelling ear buds. I can groove to songs I like and have pre-selected.
Awesome! Thank you, Bob!
I’m surprised more kids/families are up front. We always preferred to seat in the back when our children were young. If the plane wasn’t full the back tended to be less crowded.
Also, if the airlines can’t have decent seat spacing no seat reclining should be allowed at all. If the passenger in front reclines it makes the tray table unusable and do you really want to put your head in a stranger’s lap? The last time this happened to me it was all I could do to keep myself from patting him on the head. I might not be able to resist next time.
The best seat is where you have courteous passengers in front, behind and beside you. In other words just fly with japanese passengers
Another great, informative video! Let’s hope you get to 100k subscribers soon!!🙏🙏
Thanks, Janice! I hope so too but more important is that my videos are enjoyed!
On the longest flight of our lives, my wife & I was on a 777 from LAX to GRU, 12 hr. 40 min. flight! On the leg back we came through Houston, which was almost 4 hrs. less.
Sitting in the front, if you have to connect, makes sense. I've had connections that became tight, because the flight into the hub was late.
Airlines are removing the fixed bulkheads between First and Coach. So, sitting in the "bulkhead" row of Coach means access to the underneath storage of the last row of First.
Usually, airlines that don't use WILMA or the Southwest "free for all" board back to front. Although years ago, America West used a sliding triangle model devised by a professor at Arizona State University.
Personally, I like the back row. I know there is no passenger behind me who will become infuriated with any recline, or a little kid to kick my seat.
Thanks for watching, Kent! Happy travels!
The very back row may not recline however, and you will be immersed in restroom smells!😮
I always get an aisle seat in one of the back rows because of the survival chances. To me that is paramount. They're also the seats nobody else wants, which means most airlines let you reserve them at no extra charge. So you save money AND you'll be more likely survive a crash. 😉
Safe travels, Joe!
By far the most dangerous seat on your trip is the one in your car to/from the airport!
Good tip about United & their new Wilma boarding policy. As I like aisle seats I've just bought a medium sized suitcase which I will check. And as a carry-on I will use a tiny backpack. If there is no space in the overhead bins it will be no big deal to put it under the seat in front. 😀
I always pick the exit row window with the extra leg room. Thanks for the advice! I find if I get a seat towards the front even with status I won’t have overhead bin space and I have to store back a few rows. Would rather sit in the middle or back of the plane unless I have a tight connection.
As an Aircraft Mech I always sit in the back, its the last to arrive at the scene of a crash. All joking aside, that was some well put together info!
Seatguru..... nice tip ! Thank you!
I always sit in the aisle and I love getting up to let the others out. Any reason to stand and move is good. I usually fly long distances. I go to the bathroom a couple times whether I need to or not just to walk.
Really good points thx u pierre
I just flew United and had booked.Premium Economy. Boarding group was group 2 and no issues w carry on bags. Even w my return flight, which I had to adjust to a whole new itinerary, I kept my boarding group 2 while sitting in row 33 for the last leg of the trip. That one unfortunately put me in the middle. Managed to not have to get up (Ohare to Newark) but, oh,boy, did I feel stuck! I'm an aisle person because I worry about needing the restroom and I do like to stretch my legs out into the aisle briefly. Just have to tuck head down when the service cart goes by.
Great tips! When Sue & I travel we like the rear section of the 777 since they have rows of only 2 seats instead of the usual 3, as the plane narrows. Thanks right. No middle seat! And you feel like you are away from all the commotion up front.
Window for me. I find aisle seats claustrophobic because you know you’re in a metal tube!
But lately crew insist on closing the blinds, no doubt to get everyone to sleep and not bother them!
I use to fly a lot "Internationality" and agree with You 100% ......... Well Done
Thanks a lot, Gregory!
All these tips are great for individual traveler. If travel as a family of 3 like myself, some of the tips can't apply
Exit row, bulkhead , or the occasional upgrade are mine. And aisle unless I'm travelling with someone who wants the window.
I’ve been in jump seats to Europe as well!
Great flight!
Also on the larger planes we’d take the middle middle seats then when everyone was boarded, we’d stretch out in a four or five seat row, put up all the arm rests and sleep lying down!
Cool!
Even three seats are better than one!
Unless I am flying in first or business class I always pick the window seat behind the wing as I love watching the engines and flaps and control surfaces. I also prefer looking out the window.
Thanks for watching!
I always take aisle seat. Biggest con is getting bumped constantly during boarding. I book delta’s comfort+. Quicker boarding, little more leg room, good access to overhead space.
Thank you for an interesting and useful video 😊😊😊
My pleasure 😊 Glad you liked it!
Good video and I agree with all yore comments and choices.
Great tips on WILMA! We will be traveling on United this summer and taking our son with us (family of 3). I will make sure his carry on holds the least amount of breakable goods when we board as I will be putting him in the aisle seat.
Summer will be here before you know it! Have a great trip!
Whew....a lot of info : ) thank you : )
Who knew there was so much to picking a seat!😂 Happy travels, Sheila!