How do I get the best seats in economy?

The Economy Comfort Sweet Spot: Aim for the Center Aisle

Long-haul flights in economy can feel daunting. Cramped legs, limited recline, and the dreaded middle seat are often top of mind when picturing that transatlantic journey. But within the economy cabin, a sweet spot exists, offering a surprising degree of comfort and convenience: the center aisle seat.

While window seats offer views and a place to lean, and aisle seats on the sides provide easy access to the lavatory, the center aisle seats, particularly in the wider-bodied jets commonly used for long-haul routes, present a unique set of advantages.

Freedom of Movement is Key: The most significant benefit of a center aisle seat is the enhanced freedom of movement. While a standard aisle seat still requires you to climb over your row-mate, the center aisle allows you to stand and stretch, retrieve items from the overhead bin, or simply shift positions without disturbing anyone beside you. This is especially crucial on long flights where staying mobile can help prevent stiffness and improve circulation.

Amenity Access Advantage: In many long-haul configurations, the galleys and lavatories are centrally located. Center aisle seats provide quicker and easier access to these amenities, minimizing the time spent waiting in the aisle or squeezing past fellow passengers. This proximity can also be beneficial for grabbing a drink or snack between meal services.

A Sense of Space: Psychologically, having an unobstructed aisle beside you can create a sense of spaciousness, even within the confines of economy. Not having another passenger directly next to you can reduce feelings of confinement and make the flight feel less cramped.

Strategic Seat Selection: Of course, not all center aisle seats are created equal. Check seat maps carefully before booking. Avoid rows near the lavatories or galleys as these areas can be prone to higher foot traffic and noise. Rows closer to the front of the economy section often offer quicker disembarkation, but might be slightly more expensive.

Considering Your Travel Style: While center aisle seats offer many perks, they aren’t the ideal choice for everyone. If you’re a nervous flyer and prefer the reassurance of a window seat, or if you value undisturbed sleep above all else, a window seat might be a better fit. Light sleepers should also consider the potential for increased disturbances due to passenger movement in the aisle.

Ultimately, the “best” seat in economy is subjective. However, for those prioritizing freedom of movement, easy access to amenities, and a greater sense of space on their long-haul journey, the center aisle seat provides a compelling and often overlooked option for enhanced comfort.