There is nothing more annoying than a passenger with a crying baby sitting next to you or cramped legs for an entire flight due to lack of legroom. It is true that everyone wants an aisle seat on the exit row but it is not imperative that your luck will favor every time. However, it is also not completely untrue that you can plan and play safe to ensure you land up with the best seats on the airplane. Before diving into the tactics, you must know the comfortable seats we’re talking about here.
Exit rows, aisle and window seats and those closer to the front of the airplane are comparatively more comfortable. The type of seat that’d suit best also depends upon the duration of travel. If it is an adjoining flight or a short trip, choosing the aisle seat in the front of the plane is the trick. However, those traveling for longer durations can opt for coach seats next to the window.
Although every situation might create an obstacle, here’s how you can select the best seat –
Buying the tickets early
One way you can ensure you land a good seat is by booking in early. There are fewer chances that you’ll land up with an aisle seat just a day or two before the flight because the majority would be booked. Booking in early on an odd weekday afternoon like Wednesday or Thursday increases your chances of a good pick as the pool of seats available is large.
Purchasing with additional costs
If you don’t want to gamble on your chances of having a comfortable seat then many airlines run a program wherein they offer better legroom for additional charges. The economy class seats will be upgraded to almost seven inches greater legroom. However, please note that there are no other upgrades you are entitled to on this additional cost.
Select seat while booking
Most airlines have a feature where they allow you to select the seat you want. Some may have this provision after you complete your reservation. Although the majority of sites offer free selection, some airlines will require you to pay an additional cost for selecting a seat from the available lot.
Reach the airport early
If you check in late or are just on the edge for the departure time, the airline might process your seat to someone else. To avoid the last-minute hassle, it is important to keep some provisions on your clock.
Kindness goes a long way
One of the most important things to remember is to be polite to the crew and agents. They already have hundreds of complaints and issues to sort every day. Approaching them with an understanding tone and following instructions obediently might open doors to the best available seat on the plane.
Ask when in doubt
It is not as easy to walk up and sweet talk yourself into a business class seat but it’s always worth the try. Check for available seats till the last minute and ask the staff for any other available seats before the gates are closed.