Is the emergency exit seat a good seat?

The Seat Behind the Emergency Exit: A Solidly Ordinary Choice

We all know the allure of the emergency exit row seats. Legroom for days! But what about the seat directly behind that coveted row? Is it a hidden gem, a cursed location, or simply… unremarkable? The truth, for most airlines and aircraft configurations, falls squarely into the latter category.

While the emergency exit row itself is often subject to extra fees and comes with the responsibility of assisting in an emergency, the seat immediately behind it is usually just a regular seat. You’re not getting the extra legroom, nor are you saddled with the emergency duties. In essence, you’re getting a standard economy experience, which can be either a blessing or a curse, depending on your priorities.

Why It’s Not Special:

• Standard Legroom: You’re going to have the same amount of legroom as most other seats in the main cabin. Don’t expect to stretch out and luxuriate.
• No Emergency Responsibilities: Unlike passengers in the exit row, you’re not expected to assist in the event of an emergency. You can relax and focus on your inflight entertainment (or try to get some sleep).
• Standard Amenities: Tray tables, entertainment screens, and charging ports (if available) are the same as in other standard seats.

Potential Considerations (Depending on the Aircraft):

While generally unremarkable, there are a few things to keep in mind that can vary depending on the aircraft and airline:

• Recline Limitations: In some rare cases, the seats behind the emergency exit row might have limited or no recline to avoid hindering egress in an emergency. This is crucial to check before booking, as a lack of recline can be very uncomfortable on a long flight. Airline websites and seat maps (like SeatGuru) can often provide this information.
• Proximity to the Lavatory: Depending on the layout, these seats can sometimes be closer to the lavatories. While not always a negative, it can lead to increased foot traffic and potential noise.
• Armrest Issues: In older aircraft, there might be variations in armrest design or functionality. Again, this is becoming less common with modern aircraft.

The Verdict:

The seat behind the emergency exit is, by and large, a neutral choice. It’s not going to provide you with a dramatically better or worse experience than other standard seats. It’s a perfectly acceptable option if you’re simply looking for a place to sit on your flight.

When to Choose This Seat:

• You’re on a Budget: If the emergency exit row is too expensive, but you want to be near the front of the economy cabin, this seat might be a good compromise.
• You Don’t Want Emergency Responsibilities: If you prefer to avoid the responsibility of assisting in an emergency, this is a stress-free alternative to the exit row itself.
• Seat Availability is Limited: Sometimes, this is simply the best available seat!

Before You Book:

Always check the seat map for the specific aircraft you’ll be flying on. Pay attention to any notes about recline limitations or proximity to lavatories. Ultimately, the “goodness” of this seat comes down to individual preference and the specific layout of the plane. Don’t expect extra legroom or special perks, but don’t necessarily shy away from it either. It’s just a regular seat, offering a regular flight experience.