by Helium01

Created on: May 27, 2009

Tips for choosing the best seats on airliners

Over the past year, I have become a frequent flyer of sorts. My home is in Canada, but my family and I are currently living in Central America. Given that my extended family still lives in Canada, I make several trips a year back home to see them. In the course of these flights, I have become a little savvier than the average traveler about choosing the best seats on airplanes.

Choosing the best seat on an airplane has a lot to do with personal preference. However, there are some seats that will always be considered the "best in the house". With the introduction of "pay-per-seat" charges on some airlines, the best seats are becoming quite clear because they cost more to reserve. Below are some tips to help you choose a comfortable seat for your flight.

Window or Aisle?

Whether you want a window or aisle seat depends on personal preference. Safety statistics indicate that being on the aisle makes it easier to exit the plane in the event of a crash. Being on the aisle also makes it easy to use the restroom when needed.

In contrast, if you tend to spend entire flights sleeping, the window is probably your better option. You won't be bothered by others asking you to move so that they can use the restroom, the noise of the engine will help to lull you to sleep, and you can rest your pillow (and your head) against the side of the aircraft instead of trying to sleep sitting straight up. Just be sure to read over the safety card, so that in the event of a crash landing, you will be prepared to exit safely.

Emergency Exit Row

The emergency exit row is often considered one of the best rows on an airplane because of the extra leg room that it affords. However, if you are not prepared to assist other passengers exit the aircraft in the event of an emergency, do not choose a seat in this row. Some airlines even have policies about who may, and may not sit in the emergency exit row. For example, my husband and I cannot sit in this row with our infant daughter (although my 6 foot 3 inch husband would certainly prefer it).

Front or Rear?

Again, from a purely safety perspective, statistics indicate that the rear of the aircraft may be safer. However, if you sit in the rear of the plane, remember that you will be last to exit, last to receive any food or beverage, and may be right in the path of the lineup for the restrooms. Sitting in the front of the aircraft allows for a speedy exit, and prompt food service. My personal favorite is row

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