The worst airline seats to book - experts give their views

South Wales Guardian

21-07-2025

One seat in particular is the subject of some controversy - seat 11A.
The man who walked away from the Air India plane crash as the disaster's only survivor was sitting near an emergency exit on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner as it took off from Ahmedabad, India, on its way to London was 11A.
But, experts say that it's often the worst seat on the plane. Julianna Marshall, a travel expert, says that seat 11A (along with 11F) is often the worst on UK flights.
From limited recline to awkward proximity to high-traffic areas, these seats can make long trips even more uncomfortable.
"Choosing the right seat on a flight can vastly improve your travel experience," says Julianna, part of the the International Drivers Association,
"A survey involving British flight attendants highlighted specific seats that could ruin your flight experience—11A and 11F. These window seats might seem appealing at first glance; however, they come with disadvantages that most travellers overlook."
What's wrong with 11A and 11F on many flights?
These seats are often located near the exit rows, but contrary to popular belief, they do not always provide extra legroom. In some aircraft configurations, these seats might actually have reduced space due to safety equipment or the structure of the plane.
In certain models of aircraft, seats 11A and 11F might lack a window entirely, leading to a claustrophobic experience. For passengers who appreciate a view to alleviate the monotony of a flight, this can be a considerable inconvenience.
Being close to the plane's exit means these seats are often exposed to colder temperatures. This can make the flight uncomfortable, particularly on longer routes where adjusting to temperature shifts is crucial for relaxation.
Proximity to the exit can also mean being closer to the galleys or bathroom areas, often resulting in higher noise levels. Frequent disturbances from passenger movement and flight crew operations can disrupt peace, crucial for those who need rest.
Always look at the seat configuration for the specific model of aircraft you will be flying on. Websites and airline apps typically provide detailed seat maps.
Online forums and travel review sites offer insights from previous passengers about the benefits and downsides of specific seats on various aircraft.
When checking in, ask the airline staff about the best available seats. They can offer up-to-date information about the plane's layout and potentially quieter or more comfortable areas.
If comfort is a priority, consider paying for an upgrade to premium economy or business class where the seating arrangements and additional benefits are more conducive to a pleasant flight experience.
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Julia says: "Picking the perfect aircraft seat is not all about snagging a window or aisle, but it entails a number of factors that may affect your comfort and flying experience altogether.
"Though seats 11A and 11F are located at a highly advantageous spot in the aircraft, each has its downsides, which may not work to the advantage of every traveller.
"By way of prior knowledge and with being proactive in seat selection, travellers can make flying far more pleasant and enjoyable than it may normally be."