This list of bad airplane seats will help you know where to sit for your next flight.

I will list the seats I do not like so that you can make up your own mind.

This video will help you know the bad airplane seats, watch it instead below.

Upright Position


Tip number one is to avoid the seats at the very back of the airplane. Not only do these seats often lack the ability to recline, making for an uncomfortable flight, but they also place you in the direct line of sight for passengers queued for the lavatory, leading to potentially awkward encounters.

Additionally, the row in front of the emergency exit seats suffer from a similar drawback, as these seats do not recline, compromising your comfort.


Particular aircraft, such as the Alaska Airlines 737-800, feature very back seats that do not recline. A valuable tip is to conduct thorough research on platforms like Seat Guru prior to purchasing your ticket, to avoid these and other less desirable seating options.

Middle vs. Window

While the middle or window seats may offer extra room due to the airplane’s shape bulging outward, and the middle seat gains the advantage of both armrests, aisle seats come with their own set of drawbacks. These include the inconvenience of being bumped into, frequently having to rise for fellow passengers, and, if situated near a mid-plane lavatory, enduring unpleasant odors.

First Class


First class seating on domestic flights might not live up to expectations either, with the absence of seat-back entertainment and reduced personal space. Certain airplane models feature a box under aisle seats, limiting legroom and comfort. It’s also noteworthy that sitting towards the front of the plane can result in a smoother ride, as there is generally less turbulence.

Other Considerations


For those sitting in seats that cannot recline or are in close proximity to the galley, prepare for a potentially noisy flight with limited space for personal essentials.


Another IMPORTANT tip: many airlines allow bookings with layovers as short as 50 minutes, which often is not sufficient time to make a connecting flight. This critical information is often overlooked, so it’s wise to allocate more time for layovers to avoid a frantic rush through the airport.


If you have not heard the newest updates for 2025, catch up by watching this Hacks for Airline Changes in 2025 video.


Based on my pros and cons, you will have to make the final decision before your next flight.