A new study has uncovered the most coveted airplane seats by passengers. The results of a travel survey conducted by Texas-based Upgraded Points reveal preferences based on seat location, airline comfort, and specific needs, providing a comprehensive guide for passengers and, at the same time, aiming to settle once and for all the great debate: window or aisle?
“Understanding what travellers want is key to improving air travel,” said Keri Stooksbury, editor-in-chief at Upgraded Points. “We asked which seats were the most desirable and shed some light on the factors that influence seat choices, from legroom to perceived safety.”
The newest survey asked 3,100 passengers to choose their top seat location on Boeing 737-800 seat map. And here’s what they said:
The Great Debate: Window vs. Aisle
- Window seat wins: Window seats dominate 8 out of the top 10 selections, with 66.6% of passengers favouring them for the views and headrest convenience, ideal for sleepers.
- Aisle Seat Advantages: Aisle seats, preferred by 31.7%, offer more freedom to move around the cabin and often more legroom.
- Only 1.7% of passengers prefer the middle seat.
Most Desired Airplane Seats
- First-class favourite: Seat 1A: It is no surprise that seat 1A tops the list. This first -class spot offers ample legroom, easy restroom access, a window view, and the convenience of being one of the first on and off the plane.
- Economy comfort: Seats 7A and 7F: Close seconds are the window seats in the economy class bulkhead row. Seats 7A and 7F are favoured for their extra space, reduced foot traffic, and easy access to overhead bins, making them ideal for parents with small kids.
- Exit row excellence: Seats 20A and 20F – window seats in the exit row are among the top 10 choices. With added legroom and the advantage of fewer seat neighbours on less crowded flights, these seats are preferred by 41% of those surveyed, despite the added responsibility in emergencies.
Pay for Privilege
On average, passengers are willing to pay US$33.59 extra to select their airplane seat in advance.
Inflight Etiquette & Preferences
- Restroom usage: A full 21% of flyers report they never use the restroom on a flight, and only 16% prefer seats near the restroom.
- Seat etiquette 44% of passengers find reclining seats rude, but over half (54%) believe passengers should be allowed to take their shoes off during the flight.
- Personal space: More than half of those surveyed report that their seat neighbour often infringes on their personal space, while 23% have had difficulties when flying as, or with, a plus-sized traveller – ultimately emphasizing the need for more inclusive seating arrangements.