Advantages and Disadvantages of Airplane Seats, from Window to Exit Row

Choosing a seat position on a plane can be quite important, especially when taking a long-haul flight that lasts for hours—the right seat can make the journey feel much more comfortable.

Some people prefer sitting by the window to enjoy the view, others choose aisle seats for easier movement, while some deliberately seek out exit row seats for the extra legroom.

Of course, every seat position on a plane has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Why Is Seat Position on a Plane Important?

For some people, choosing a seat on a plane may seem trivial, but in reality, seat position can greatly affect travel comfort. Especially on long-haul flights, sitting for hours in an unsuitable seat can make the body feel uncomfortable and quickly fatigued.

Beyond comfort, seat position can also influence your flying experience.

For instance, window seats offer passengers the chance to enjoy breathtaking views from above, while aisle seats provide more freedom of movement without disturbing others.

Practical factors are also no less important. Passengers who want to disembark quickly usually prefer seats at the front, while those who prioritize quietness may feel more comfortable sitting at the back.

In fact, seat position can even affect service—for example, passengers seated in the front rows are usually served meals earlier. Therefore, understanding the pros and cons of each seat position will help you choose the best seat according to your needs.

Window Seat

The window seat is often the target of many passengers, especially those who want to enjoy the view during the flight. From above, passengers can see stretches of clouds, sunrises or sunsets, and city views during takeoff and landing.

In addition to the scenery, sitting by the window also provides more privacy. Passengers are less frequently disturbed by others passing through the aisle, and this position is usually quieter as it is away from cabin traffic.

However, window seats also have disadvantages. Access to the aisle becomes more difficult, especially if you need to use the restroom or simply want to walk around to stretch your legs. Moreover, the temperature near the window sometimes feels colder due to exposure to the plane’s walls.

Aisle Seat

The aisle seat is often the favorite for passengers who prioritize freedom of movement during the flight. Sitting here makes it easier to go to the restroom or stretch your legs without having to pass by other passengers.

Additionally, the aisle seat is usually more practical during boarding as well as when the plane lands. Passengers in this position can disembark faster than those in window or middle seats.

However, aisle seats also have their drawbacks. Passengers are more frequently disturbed by others passing through or by flight attendants pushing food or beverage trolleys. It is not uncommon for shoulders or arms to be bumped if you lean too far into the aisle.

Middle Seat

The middle seat is often considered the most “undesirable” position by many passengers. The reason is simple: it is squeezed between passengers on the left and right, making space feel more limited.

There is no direct access to the window to enjoy the view, nor the ease of moving in and out of the aisle as with aisle seats.

In terms of comfort, sitting in the middle seat can make passengers feel more cramped, especially during long-haul flights. Privacy is also relatively reduced as you share space with two people at once.

However, that does not mean the middle seat has no advantages. On some airlines, middle seats are sometimes sold at a cheaper price compared to window or aisle seats, making them an option for saving on travel budget.

Wing Seats

Seats located near the wing are usually in the middle part of the plane. This position is often considered ideal for passengers who are easily unsettled during flights, as the wing is the most stable part of the aircraft.

This means turbulence is generally felt less in this area compared to the front or back of the plane.

In addition, sitting near the wing allows passengers to see the large structure of the plane’s wing up close, which for some can be quite fascinating.

In terms of comfort, wing seats are often quieter than the back of the plane, as engine noise is usually less noticeable. However, on some aircraft types, engines are mounted on the wings, which can make the noise louder—it depends greatly on the aircraft model used.

Exit Row Seat

Seats near the emergency exit, or exit row seats, are often sought after by passengers, particularly those wanting extra legroom. Compared to regular seats, this row indeed provides more space, making the journey feel roomier, more comfortable, and less cramped.

However, sitting in the emergency exit row is not only about comfort. Passengers in this row usually carry additional responsibility. In an emergency, they are expected to assist the cabin crew in opening the exit door and guiding the evacuation process.

That is why not everyone is allowed to sit in these seats, such as children, elderly passengers with physical limitations, or those unable to communicate effectively.

There are also other factors to consider. Exit row seats often cannot recline, making them less comfortable for sleeping compared to regular seats. The temperature can also feel colder due to proximity to the plane’s door.

Conclusion: Which Seat Is Most Suitable for You?

From the explanation above, it can be concluded that every seat position on a plane clearly has its own advantages and disadvantages. If you are the type who enjoys the view or prefers to sleep more comfortably without disturbance, the window seat is clearly the best choice.

On the other hand, if you tend to move around often, use the restroom frequently, or want more freedom to stand without bothering others, the aisle seat may be the best option.
If you are traveling on a budget, then the middle seat, which is usually cheaper, is the right choice.

Meanwhile, for passengers prioritizing extra legroom, the exit row seat may feel most comfortable. But remember that there are specific requirements to sit there.

Before choosing your seat, think about what you need most: comfortable sleep, ease of movement, lower cost, or extra legroom. From there, you can find the seat that best fits your travel style.