The best seat on a plane can make a huge difference in your comfort during a long-haul flight. A few hours in the air can be exhausting, whether you’re flying from the UK to the United States, Australia or Asia. Your seat can influence how easily you sleep, how often you can get up and how much space you have to stretch your legs.
No one seat fits all travellers. If you need to sleep, a window seat might be best, but if you need to get around, an aisle seat will be easier. Those who require extra legroom may want to sit in an exit row, while families may want to sit together.
The type of aircraft, cabin configuration and airline seating policies also play a role in determining which is best. Understanding these differences can help you identify the best seat on a plane for your needs before booking.
This World Flight Vibes guide covers the best seats on a plane for long flights, where to sit to sleep, and which seats might not be as comfortable and how to find a good seat without paying more than you need to.
What Is the Best Seat on a Plane for a Long-Haul Flight?
The best seat on a plane depends on your priorities. If you need to sleep, a window seat away from the service areas is a good option, but if you need to get up and stretch often, an aisle seat is better. If extra legroom is the primary concern, an eligible exit-row seat might be appropriate.
When choosing your seat, consider what is important on your trip.
| Seat position | Best suited to | What to consider |
| Window seat | Sleeping, privacy and views | You may need to move past other passengers to leave |
| Aisle seat | Easy movement and toilet access | Passing passengers and trolleys can cause disturbances |
| Exit-row seat | Additional legroom | Eligibility rules and possible recline restrictions |
| Bulkhead seat | Space directly in front | Fixed armrests and limited under-seat storage |
| Front of the economy cabin | Leaving the aircraft sooner | May be close to a galley or bulkhead |
| Seat around the wings | Passengers concerned about turbulence | Engine noise varies by aircraft |
| Rear seat | Travellers prioritising other factors | Some seats have limited recline or are near toilets |
These are guidelines and not guarantees. Depending on the aircraft and airline, two seats in the same class can be different in terms of comfort.
In the end, the best seat on a plane is the one that suits your comfort, convenience and budget.
Window Seat vs Aisle Seat: Which Is Better for Long Flights?
When selecting the best seat on a plane, one of the first choices you’ll have to make is whether you want to be by the window or the aisle. Both options are good, especially if you’re flying for 8, 10 or more hours.
Window seats: Best for sleeping and privacy
If you are going to sleep on your flight, a window seat may be a better option. You can lean against the side of the plane, pull down the window blind and get comfortable without having to shift every time someone else wants to get out of the row.
The window also offers views on take-off, landing and the flight. The wall on one side of the cabin can help you feel more comfortable when you’re sitting down, as you won’t feel like people are constantly walking by your seat.
One practical drawback to window seats is that you have to ask your row-mates to move if you want to get up. This can be a nuisance if you drink lots of water, have to go to the toilet a lot or like to walk around on a long flight.
A window seat is ideal for: passengers who wish to sleep, enjoy the view or prefer to stay in one seat for long periods.
Aisle seats: Best for freedom of movement
If you don’t want to feel cramped on a long trip, an aisle seat is a good option. No need to ask other passengers to move to get up and easier access to the toilet.
It may also be appropriate for taller passengers who need to move around frequently. The aisle should be kept clear, however, stretching legs into the aisle can block other passengers and cabin crew.
The main disadvantage is the possibility of being disturbed by people walking past, passengers accessing luggage and cabin crew moving service trolleys.
An aisle seat is ideal for: frequent movers, passengers who do not like to be cramped, and those who prefer to be near the aisle.
Are middle seats worth choosing?
Middle seats are not as popular as window seats or aisle seats, as they do not provide the same level of comfort or convenience.
However, they may be a good choice if you are traveling with friends or family and want to sit together. In some planes, the middle part can also be set up to be more suitable for your group.
If you are travelling alone, compare the available window and aisle seats before settling for a middle seat. When choosing the best seat on a plane, consider the whole seating arrangement rather than judging a seat by its position alone.
Best Seats on a Plane for Extra Legroom
Legroom is a key factor to consider when choosing a seat on an airplane, especially if you are tall or don’t like the standard economy seating.
A measurement to understand is seat pitch. This is the distance between the same point on two adjacent seats. It is often used to refer to seating space, but it is not the same as the actual space for your legs.
The seat shape, the structure of the seat and the space below the seat in front may all impact on the amount of room you have.
Exit-row seats
Passengers seeking extra legroom in economy class may find exit-row seats to be among the most appealing. They can be arranged around emergency exits to create more space in front of the seat, depending on the aircraft.
There are several factors to consider before selecting one:
- Eligibility: Passengers must meet the airline’s emergency-exit requirements and be willing and able to assist in an evacuation.
- Recline: Some exit-row seats have limited or no recline.
- Storage: Hand luggage generally needs to be stowed in the overhead locker during take-off and landing.
- Seat design: Fixed armrests and the shape of the exit structure can affect comfort.
- Cost: Airlines may charge extra for these seats, depending on the fare and booking conditions.
For instance, British Airways has specific criteria for passengers who choose seats in the emergency exit row. The official exit-row guidance outlines the duties of these roles.
If legroom is your primary concern, an exit-row seat might be worth it, but be sure to read the specific seat information before you pay for an extra legroom seat.
Bulkhead seats
Bulkhead seats are not behind another row of seats, but behind a wall or partition. They can provide more open space in front, depending on the aircraft.
If you don’t want another passenger lying flat in front of you, these seats can come in handy. There are also some bulkhead rows that can be used for bassinets, which is important for some families travelling with babies.
However, more space in front does not necessarily mean a more comfortable seat.
Bulkhead seats may also have fixed armrests that restrict the width of your seat. The entertainment screen can be placed in the armrest and hand luggage is typically not allowed on the floor when taking off and landing.
Bulkhead seats may also be near toilets or galleys. Check the cabin layout before selecting one.
Front-of-cabin seats
Seats towards the front of the economy cabin can be useful if you want to leave the aircraft sooner after landing. They may also be further away from certain rear service areas, depending on the layout.
But the front of the plane is not necessarily the quietest or largest. A seat next to a galley or bulkhead may be busier than anticipated.
A forward aisle seat might be a good option if you need to get off the plane quickly.
Best Seat on a Plane for Sleeping
For many travellers, the best seat for sleeping on a plane is a window seat away from busy areas of the cabin.
The window offers a place to lay your head down and you won’t be as likely to be disturbed by passengers walking down the aisle. Avoiding toilets and galleys can also minimize interruptions.
But more than your seat will determine your ability to sleep. It’s all about noise, lighting, cabin temperature, seat recline and your own sleeping habits.
Choose a window seat
A window seat lets you lean against the wall of the plane and get into a sleeping position without having to move when someone else wants to get up.
If you plan to sleep for several hours, consider bringing a supportive travel pillow, an eye mask and earplugs. These can be used to control the cabin environment, but they do not remove all disturbances.
Avoid busy cabin areas
Toilets and galleys can experience increased passenger traffic, particularly during meal services and before landing. Cabin crew may be preparing food or drinks, and passengers may be standing in line nearby.
If you are a light sleeper, look at the seat map and select a seat a few rows away from these areas if possible.
Service areas vary from aircraft to aircraft, so please don’t assume that all front and rear seats will be the same.
Consider the seat’s recline
Recline can impact comfort while resting. Certain seats may be limited in recline due to bulkhead or cabin structure behind the seat.
Please verify any seat restrictions before booking. While a window seat might be good for sleeping, a seat that doesn’t recline enough might not be right for you.
Think about the flight schedule
An overnight flight may be a chance to get some sleep, but the time of departure and arrival is also important. When crossing multiple time zones, think about when you want to sleep in relation to your destination.
For more tips, check out our article on long haul flight tips for some practical tips on preparing for a longer flight.
Which Plane Seats Should You Avoid on Long-Haul Flights?
While there is no such thing as the worst seat on a plane, some seats may be less desirable based on your preferences.
Seats beside the toilets
Toilets may have more foot traffic, noise and interruptions in seats adjacent to them. Passengers can stand around while waiting, particularly on a crowded flight.
If you prefer a quieter sleeping spot, choose a seat a few rows away from the toilets and galleys, if possible.
Seats close to the galley
The galley is where cabin crew prepare and organise food and drinks. Depending on the aircraft layout, nearby seats may experience more light, conversation and movement during meal services.
These seats are not necessarily uncomfortable, but they may not be as well suited for passengers who wish to get a good night’s sleep.
The last row of a cabin
It is important to look at the final row before booking. Rear seats may be limited in recline due to being against a cabin wall or partition.
They may also be close to toilets and galley areas. But not all aircraft have the same seat layout, so don’t assume that the back of the plane is all the same.
Seats with restricted recline
If the seat doesn’t recline properly, it may be uncomfortable for a long overnight flight, especially if you plan to sleep.
Restrictions may be present in more than one area of the cabin, not just the last row. Check for seat-specific details before making your choice.
Seats with awkward window positions
Not all window seats are next to a window. The window may be offset or not be present in a specific row due to aircraft structures and seating arrangements.
When booking, look at the seating configuration and available seat reviews of the aircraft to see if there is a window for views or a place to lean.
Knowing which seats to avoid can be just as helpful as identifying the best seat on a plane, particularly if you want to minimise disturbances during a long flight.
Best Seats on a Plane for Every Type of Traveller
The ideal seat on a long-haul flight will vary depending on who you are traveling with and what you are looking for from the flight.
Best plane seats for tall passengers
If you are tall, you might want to consider an eligible exit-row seat or a seat that is marked as having extra legroom.
Bulkhead seats may also offer additional leg room in front, but the wall may restrict the reach of your feet. The legroom advertised is not as important as the design of the seat and the area underneath it.
Check the actual seat specifications, not just the row number.
Best plane seats for families
Families with children may find it helpful to sit together and select seats that are easier to navigate the trip.
Bassinets are available in some bulkhead rows, but availability, weight limits and booking procedures vary by airline and aircraft. If you require a bassinet, please contact the airline or refer to their official instructions.
A window seat can also help to keep a child occupied with something outside. But the most crucial factor is choosing the right seats for the entire family and verifying any airline-specific requirements.
Best plane seats for solo travellers
Solo travellers are more flexible as they don’t have to arrange multiple seats.
A window seat may be a good choice if you need to sleep. If you prefer to get up frequently, an aisle seat may be more convenient.
Another factor to consider is the amount of money you are willing to invest in seat selection. A regular seat in an appropriate position can be comfortable enough without extra charge.
Best plane seats for business travellers
When travelling in economy class, an aisle seat towards the front of the cabin may be easier to move around and exit the aircraft after landing.
If you are going to be working during the flight, think about the tray-table design, the number of power outlets and if the seat has enough room to comfortably use your laptop.
The seat that is best for working may not be the same seat you would want to sleep in, so choose which is more important for that trip.
Best plane seats for nervous flyers
If turbulence is a concern, a seat around the wing might be worth considering. Due to its location in relation to the aircraft’s centre of gravity, movement may not be as noticeable there as at the front or rear.
But turbulence is a problem for the whole aircraft and no seat can ensure a smooth ride.
For some nervous flyers, an aisle seat might be preferable as it feels less cramped and offers better access to the cabin crew. Others may prefer to sit by the window. Select the seat that is most comfortable for you and listen to the crew’s safety guidelines during the flight.
Best plane seats for light sleepers
If noise is a problem, choose a window seat that is not near toilets, galleys or the busier parts of the cabin.
On some aircraft, the front half of a cabin may be appropriate, but noise levels will depend on the engine location, cabin design and location of service areas.
Do not assume that one section of the aircraft will always be quieter, but rather check the specific aircraft layout.
Does the Aircraft Type Affect the Best Seat?
Yes. Your seating options can be greatly affected by the aircraft model and cabin configuration.
Long-haul wide-body aircraft can be configured with economy seating arrangements of 2-3-2, 3-3-3 or 3-4-3. These numbers refer to the seating pattern on each row, with the aisles between the rows.
For example, a 2-3-2 configuration has two seats on each side and three in the middle. A 3-3-3 layout consists of three seats in each of three blocks, and a 3-4-3 layout consists of four seats in the middle block.
These differences impact the ease of access to the aisle and the number of people in each section.
A couple travelling together may find it convenient to have a pair of seats in a side section. If you prefer not to climb over multiple passengers, an aisle seat in a larger central block might be better.
The aircraft model is not a guarantee of a better experience. Different aircraft types can be equipped with various seats, cabin configurations and amenities.
Before booking, check:
- The aircraft model and exact seating configuration.
- The location of toilets, galleys and bulkheads.
- Whether your preferred seat has restricted recline.
- The available legroom and under-seat storage.
- Whether the airline may change the aircraft before departure.
Seat maps are available to help you compare the seats available, but please note that aircraft substitutions and operational changes may impact your seat assignment.
Minor Nuances & Modern Aircraft Trends
When choosing the best seat on a plane, a few small details can make a noticeable difference to your comfort, especially on a long-haul flight.
- Missing Windows: Some seats on aircraft such as the Boeing 737, Boeing 787 and Airbus A330 or A350 may not have a window directly beside them. This is often due to the aircraft’s structural design or internal systems. If having a window matters to you, check a detailed seat map, such as AeroLOPA, before selecting your seat.
- Economy Seats in Pairs at the Rear: On some wide-body aircraft, the cabin narrows towards the rear, which can result in a different seating layout. Certain aircraft offer pairs of economy seats in this area, making them a useful option for couples travelling together. However, these seats may be close to toilets or galleys, where there can be more noise and passenger movement.
- Fixed Armrests in Bulkhead Seats: Bulkhead seats often have fixed armrests because the tray tables and entertainment screens are stored inside them. This can reduce the usable seat width and prevent you from lifting the armrests to create more space. The design varies between aircraft and cabin classes, so check the seat details before booking.
How to Choose the Best Seat on a Plane Without Overspending
It is not always required to pay for a seat. This will depend on your budget, the duration of your flight and the importance of a specific position to you.
1. Check the airline’s seat-selection policy
Different airlines have different rules for advance seat selection. Some fares have it included, others have an extra charge or offer passengers the option to choose specific seats at a later stage.
Review the conditions of your ticket before booking. For instance, British Airways provides details about their seat selection and eligibility on their official seating information page.
Seats may be available and/or cost based on your fare, cabin and frequent flyer status.
2. Review the seat map early
Before selecting a seat, review the seat map to determine if there are seats with additional legroom, no congestion, and a seat that fits your preferences.
Don’t just look at the window and aisle labels. The location of the row, recline limitations and the distance to toilets can be as significant.
3. Decide whether extra legroom is worth the cost
If you’re thinking about paying for an exit-row seat, weigh the extra expense against the comfort you’ll receive.
Additional room can be especially important on a long trip, but it’s important to see what the seat allows before you pay for it. For some passengers, a standard aisle or window seat in a convenient location might be enough.
4. Check your booking again before departure
Seats may be subject to change due to bookings and cancellations. Airlines can also switch aircraft for operational reasons.
Review your reservation before departure to confirm your assigned seat. If it has changed, contact the airline to understand the available alternatives.
Before you pay, you can compare your options and find the best seat on a plane without paying more than you need to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best seat on a plane for a long-haul flight?
The best seat on a plane depends on your priorities. A window seat away from the service areas is a good option for sleeping, an aisle seat is good for getting around, and an eligible exit row seat may provide extra legroom.
Are window or aisle seats better for long flights?
Window seats are generally more suitable for those who prefer privacy or sleep. Aisle seats are ideal for those who have to get up frequently. Both are not necessarily superior, so select based on your requirements.
Where should I sit on a plane to sleep comfortably?
Consider a window seat away from toilets and galleys. It provides a place to lean and can help minimize disruption from other passengers passing by. A travel pillow, eye mask and ear plugs can also be helpful.
Are exit-row seats worth paying for?
They can be worthwhile if you need extra legroom, particularly on a long flight. But there are limitations on recline, storage and passenger eligibility. Please verify the exact seat information before booking.
Is the back of the plane the worst place to sit?
Not necessarily. The layout varies by aircraft, with some rear seats having limited recline or being near toilets and galleys. Before dismissing the back of the house, review the seating plan.
Which seats experience less turbulence?
The movement may be less noticeable around the wings than at the front or rear. But turbulence can occur throughout the aircraft and no seat can remove it.
Should I pay to select my seat on a long-haul flight?
It depends on your budget and preferences. Paying may be worthwhile if you need extra legroom, want a particular window or aisle seat, or need to sit with your travel companions. If you can be flexible, find out what is included in your fare before paying extra.
How early should I choose my plane seat?
This will vary by airline and fare. Some airlines offer seat selection at booking, others offer it at a later stage. If it is essential to sit together or to be assigned to a specific seat, find out the airline’s policy and options as early as possible.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Seat on a Plane
When it comes to picking the best seat on a plane for a long-haul flight, it’s all about comfort, convenience and cost.
If you need to sleep, a window seat can be a good choice, if you need to move around, an aisle seat can be a better choice, and if you need extra legroom, an eligible exit-row seat may be a better choice. In the meantime, steer clear of busy service areas and look for limited recline options.
No one seat is ideal for all passengers and the same seat may be different on different planes and airlines. A few minutes spent looking at the seating plan, comparing your options and reading the airline’s policies can help you select a seat that is more appropriate for your trip.
This World Flight Vibes guide will help you understand those options before you travel. If you’re looking for more practical tips on how to prepare for a long haul flight, check out our article on long haul flight tips.
With a little preparation, you can make a more informed decision and fly your next long-haul flight with greater confidence.
