Window, middle, aisle: Which plane seat is the best?

Friday, 22 March 2024

The argument for which is the better seat, window or aisle often ends in a ‘let’s agree to disagree’.

We asked the Stuff Travel team to argue their case for aisle or window seat. We even managed to find a middle seat supporter.

Let us know in the comments which is your preferred seat and why.

Aisle

As a tall person, is there any answer other than aisle seat? I can stretch a leg out and not feel so crammed in, especially on low-cost carriers. When flying I like to stay hydrated, getting a cup of water at every opportunity, so the aisle seat means I can nip to the loo without asking the person/people next to me, who are asleep or have a full tray table, to get up. Yes, I have to get up when my window-seat neighbour needs to go, but it’s a chance to stretch my legs.

I can also get things from the overhead locker whenever I like and can see when the food and drinks trolley is coming. When it comes to disembarking, I can stand up without having to hunch under the overheads and be off the plane faster. - Emma Stanford, senior journalist - travel

Window

I like to feel cocooned - it makes me feel cosy and safe, and that’s what the window seat represents to me. Sure it’s pretty hard on a long haul flight - you have to time it right so when your fellow seatmates are up, that’s your queue for a bathroom stop and a stretch. A window seat is a no brainer for domestic and short haul flights across the Tasman, but it has its benefits for the long trips too.

That little window gives me an illusion of having more space than I actually have. I can pop a pillow and jumper on the side to rest against the side of the cabin, which means I’m more likely to get some solid shut eye than sitting upright with a head loll in the other seats, or awkwardly falling onto my neighbour’s shoulder. And, when coming into land - you’re in prime photo-taking position to capture the best shots for the ‘gram. - Juliette Sivertsen, chief news director - travel

Middle

Let’s be honest; the middle seat is a tough sell. The armrests are often pilfered by those in the neighbouring seats, you’ll be disturbed every time the window passenger needs the restroom, obstructed by the aisle passenger if you need to stand up, and there’s no great position to rest your head.

But there’s one situation where this claustrophobic slice of aeroplane real estate does the job. If travelling with young children, the middle seat serves as the driver’s seat for parents wanting to avoid their little one roaming the aisle. As soon as they get a sniff of freedom, your plane ride turns from a relaxing stationary experience to aimless traipsing up and down the walkway under the gaze of fellow passengers.

Instead, claim the middle seat and trap your kid by the window where they can look out at the clouds and enjoy endless screen time and snacks without causing too much fuss. - Stephen Heard, travel content director - production

Which seat do you prefer - aisle, middle or window? Let us know in the comments.