The seats on the plane are not always the same, and there is a queue that you should avoid at all costs. Travel experts, cited by the British newspaper The Mirror, explain that choosing the wrong seat can turn a pleasant flight into a real nightmare, especially for those who are sensitive to turbulence, noise or lack of space.
Traveling by plane continues to be one of the most anticipated experiences for those going on vacation, especially in the cold months, when swapping the gray weather for sun and sea seems like the best idea. But there are flights that become uncomfortable before they even take off and, often, it all depends on where you sit.
Worst queue on the plane
According to experts cited by the same source, the last row of the plane is the least recommended. Nicholas Smith, holiday digital director at Thomas Cook, explained that “rear seats are generally less desirable. They are close to the plane’s kitchen and toilets, service tends to be slower, meal options are more limited and movement during turbulence is felt more intense.”
Furthermore, those who sit in the back are usually the last to board and the last to leave, as travel expert Izzy Nicholls, founder of the blog The Gap Decaders, recalls: “The back seats are noisier due to the proximity of the engines and the constant activity of the crew.”
For those who want a calmer flight
The consensus among experts is clear: the front seats are the most comfortable and stable. Izzy Nicholls reinforces that “passengers looking for a quieter journey should reserve seats at the front of the plane. This area is away from the bathrooms and passenger traffic, allowing for fewer interruptions.”
According to the same source, choosing an aisle seat in this area offers even more freedom of movement: “You can stretch your legs and get up without disturbing others.”
Space and luggage problem
The discomfort in the back isn’t just about turbulence. Jacob Wedderburn-Day, chief executive of luggage storage company Stasher, points out that the last seats suffer from a lack of space for cabin luggage.
“Avoid sitting next to the galleys and bathrooms, where crew members tend to store part of their material, leaving less space in the overhead compartments. If you board late, you may even have to store your suitcase several rows ahead”, he warns.
The expert also adds that the seats behind the dividing panels (bulkheads) are also not ideal, as “they often have reduced space for luggage and limited footrests”.
Where there is more legroom
According to Andrea Platania, a specialist at the transfer company Transfeero, those looking for more space should opt for seats next to the emergency exits or in the front rows (bulkhead). “They offer more space, but with some limitations: fixed armrests, reduced recline and, in some cases, restrictions for passengers traveling with children.”
And for those who suffer from motion sickness on turbulent flights, the advice is clear: “Choose seats on the wings. This is the area closest to the plane’s center of gravity, where turbulence is least felt. At the bottom of the plane, every movement is amplified.”
The secret is in the choice
To ensure a smoother trip, experts, cited by , recommend planning in advance and paying for a seat reservation, if necessary. “Thinking about priorities before booking makes all the difference,” says Nicholas Smith.
“Nervous passengers are better off in the wings, those with a short connection should choose a seat at the front, and couples can reserve a window and aisle seat in a row of three seats and, with luck, the middle seat will be free”, he adds.
Traveling can be a pleasure, but choosing where you sit well can be the difference between a restful flight and several hours of discomfort. Avoiding the last line is the first step.
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