A former National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Air Safety Investigator has provided crucial insights into a question that concerns many travellers: where are the safest seats on an aeroplane?
The Safest Seats According to an Aviation Expert
Gregory Feith, an experienced air crash investigator, addressed this query on WIRED's YouTube channel. Contrary to the belief that there is a single safest spot, Feith explained that multiple seats can offer enhanced safety.
The expert stated clearly: "The best place to sit is where you can access an exit. Over the wings or in close proximity to either the forward exit or the rear exit."
A Vital Pre-Flight Safety Task
Beyond seat selection, Feith strongly urges all passengers to perform one simple yet potentially life-saving task before takeoff, regardless of where they are seated.
He advises: "Count the seats between the exit in front of you, and the exits behind you."
This recommendation is based on the grim reality of aviation accidents. Feith elaborates: "Because aeroplane crashes unfortunately don’t occur where the aeroplane is upright. It could be upside down. It could be at night. It could be on fire. You may not be able to stand up. You may have to crawl. Knowing your position in relation to the closest exit is your best bet."
What to Expect in a Real Aviation Emergency
Feith also clarified what passengers might experience during an actual emergency, contrasting it with dramatic Hollywood portrayals.
In a "benign situation," he explained, the captain will likely announce that the situation is "under control" and the plane may need to reroute—a scenario that should not cause undue alarm.
However, in a more critical and dangerous scenario, passengers may hear the instruction to "brace for impact, because impact with the ground is imminent." Feith notes that in such emergencies, "you are not gonna hear a long discussion from the flight crew because their priority is to try and prevent the accident."
Other Factors in Choosing the 'Best' Seat
While safety remains paramount, many travellers prioritise comfort factors when selecting seats. Industry experts highlight several considerations beyond survival statistics.
Nicholas Smith, Holidays Digital Director at Thomas Cook, warns that passengers sensitive to turbulence should avoid the back of the plane, as these seats are "typically less desirable" for a smooth ride.
This view is supported by experienced traveller Izzy Nicholls, founder of road trip blog The Gap Decaders, who notes: "Seats at the back are best avoided. They’re typically noisier because of engine proximity and galley activity, and you’ll be among the last to board and leave the plane."
Travel Expert Andrea Platania from Transfeero adds further caution about rear seating: "The very last row is typically the least desirable: limited recline, proximity to bathrooms, and more cabin noise. Middle seats anywhere are usually the least popular unless you’re travelling in a group."
With these expert insights combining safety protocols with comfort considerations, passengers can make more informed decisions about their seating choices and emergency preparedness for their next flight.
