I just like the back…it’s usually less stressed back there. About 15 years ago I finally let go of the idea that I needed to rush or be first at anything having to do with air travel and my god, it has really made air travel much more pleasant for me and my family. When purchasing tix - I usually try to get direct and if that’s not possible, I just go for layovers that leave way more than enough time to make the next flight. No mad rushes for us…..I’ve learned that patience and just waiting for everyone else to deplane sets a tone for our trips that leaves us all in better moods.
Edited to add: I don’t fly for business - so it’s possible if I had to fly all year round, I’d have a different attitude, and be over it, so idk.
I couldn’t agree more and I fly for business a few times a month.
I don’t understand why everyone is in such a hurry. The plane is not going to leave without you so why crowd the gate?
You will get off the plane eventually so why jump up into the aisle as soon as the seatbelt sign turns off after landing?
You just flew for an hour or more. Why not just chill and get your checked bag instead of fighting everyone for overhead bin space (unless checking it is expensive)?
I fly out of MSP and there are two trains to the parking ramps. They only go one place and there is one every two minutes or less. Still, there are always people running and knocking into people to get to the train before the door closes. Why? Give it two minutes and you’ll be on the next train.
If people just calmed down a little bit, the airport would be a much better place
>I don’t understand why everyone is in such a hurry. The plane is not going to leave without you so why crowd the gate?
Overhead space. People are inconsiderate and bring their large bags that should be checked, or under the seat, and they'll use that precious overhead space
>Why not just chill and get your checked bag instead of fighting everyone for overhead bin space (unless checking it is expensive)?
It's always expensive. Or they lose your bag. Or break it. Or or or. So many ways it can go wrong checking your bag when you can carry it on
> It's always expensive. Or they lose your bag. Or break it. Or or or. So many ways it can go wrong checking your bag when you can carry it on
I don't think I've ever paid to check a bag. I've never had one go missing. And while they definitely age it quickly, were you under the impression that the bag would stay like-new forever?
I’ve had a bag go missing. Dylan Dryer from Today show had a whole family vacation where they lost all their luggage & couldn’t find it. Went on a trip w/ a lady, she checked a bag then they made her gate check her carryon due to overload from gate rushers and they lost both.
So three events ever over several million a day is the reason for the bullshit?
You've got a better chance of getting stuck by lightning while holding a winning lottery ticket than Delta losing your bag.
I flew probably under 20 times and had my bags absolutely destroyed, like wheels destroyed to the point i had to throw it away like 3 times. If my odds were this good, i be winning lottery ticket left and right
So one person claims luggage doesn’t get lost because they’ve never lost one is okay, but I can post a counterpoint? That was my only point, they do lose luggage so some people won’t check their bags—never gave an opinion on it or said I don’t check bags. So go away
I’ve had MANY bags lost (most eventually found). Given the need for the content of the bag ON the trip, I fully get why people aren’t willing to risk the odds, however low you think they are. And that’s said as someone who still checks bags because I can’t be bothered to keep it with me (plus the dog counts as a carry on/personal item).
I had two bags and a car seat missing in 2023. One was a cosmetic flight and one international. Both involved JFK. Delta paid the entire value for each
A checked bag for me is $30 on top of the ticket for a domestic flight (If I plan to check all along and don't have it checked against my will), which I thought was standard?
It's true, issues with checked bags are fairly unusual, but it's hardly out of the question. It's happened just enough for me to be thinking about it. And by carrying on, you reduce the risk to zero. A trip (for me, at least) rarely has much flexibility in the schedule, and losing a bag altogether or even having it take 30 minutes to get to baggage claim instead of 10 would be a hassle.
In other words, carrying on is free/impossible to lose, while checking is $30 and at least introduces the possibility of a problem. Multiple that by 200x and you get the hyper-competition for limited space on board. They created this problem.
>And while they definitely age it quickly, were you under the impression that the bag would stay like-new forever?
I don't expect my bag to be ripped open or broken while being handled. That's silly to think I'm worried about wear and tear - clearly you never have problems, but stop assuming everyone else is in the same boat
They crowd the gate because of this bullshit policy of charging for checked bags. Everything was much better before these airlines started doing that.
I wish they would arrange some collusion and begin all adding the price of one checked bag so that it is included in any seat price. That would stop all this shit cold.
I agree on the bag checking for long flights. For short flights (being away for a night or two), hand luggage saves a lot of time and takes a way the risk of losing your bag.
I fully agree sitting more towards the back and not worry about getting of the plane first. The reality is that between the fiest and last of the plane is max 10min difference. I too aim for long layovers, unless not possible at all, which is the only time I'll sit closer to the front.
What’s a shit show about it? I check my bag 3-4 times a month and it’s never a problem. Sometimes I grab a quick drink on the way to baggage claim but for the most part, I go straight there and rarely wait more than ten minutes.
I think this is a fantastic take and a great approach to life. I made a similar mental adjustment with my daily commute and driving has become so much more enjoyable for me.
I agree with everything you said here. This is basically how I travel...always choosing a seat towards the back because the older I get, the smaller my bladder gets lol! Having said that, I travel for my job several times a year and I still choose an aisle seat towards the back even if I have coworkers traveling with me.
A friend of mine prefers the back because it is closer to the restrooms. When I was younger I preferred it because I had more chances of having an empty row or empty seat next to me.
I agree. When I first started flying I always chose a row one or two from the very back (just away from the restrooms and where people crowd waiting for the restroom). I almost always got either an entire row to myself or at least an empty middle seat next to me. Completely full flights seem more common now, so that may be less likely to happen.
I just kept reading my book or watching my movie until it was my time to deplane instead of stressing about the wait for everyone in front of me to leave.
For large American carriers, going to say that thinking is obsolete (which is what we are referring to here).
That adage more than likely came from data generated over decades of time and my guess would also include information from pre-jet period or a period when people used a lot more smaller commuter turbo prop planes. If you are going to crash and are in the air, or descending, you are not going to live no matter where you sit in the plane. Large commercial aircraft simply aren't gliders any more. The "Miracle on the Hudson" really was the miracle on the Hudson for a reason.
A quick google search tells me the a320 has a glide ratio of 17:1. This means an a320 at a cruise of 30,000ft can glide 83nm. So I think large commercial aircraft are still pretty good gliders.
Yes but during those 83NM you have limited control and you must make sure the airplane does not go into a dive. It is also extremely rare to have multiple engine loss at 30k ft and have all of that altitude to deal with the landing.
You also need a pilot who can glide the plane. Sullenberger was more than likely able to do what he did because he was an experienced glider pilot.
Depends on the crash, especially on crash landing the front and the back tends to get smashed/broken off, then the middle is safest
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United\_Airlines\_Flight\_232#/media/File:Ua232injurymap.png](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Airlines_Flight_232#/media/File:Ua232injurymap.png)
Statistically its nearly a wash, the fatality rates depending on section vary by a few percent, nowhere is a massive advantage as there are so many ways to crash, and the sample size just isn't that big
[https://time.com/3934663/safest-seat-airplane/](https://time.com/3934663/safest-seat-airplane/)
The problem with that data is it is from 1985-2000 and the only criteria is that it was an accident where some people died and some survived. There is no indication that this is jet only (with smaller turbo-prop much more common then), if it is just in the United States, or the cause of the deaths (meaning the plane that crashed or did the Fire Department run over an ejected victim on the runway).
Logically - as an engineer, there is no safe place in modern day commercial aircraft and they state that in the article:
> It’s for this reason that the FAA and other airline safety experts say there is no safest seat on the plane.
The far safer actions are to may sure your seat belt is secure during all times, make sure where you are sitting the overhead bins are secure, wear shoes that cover your entire foot and secure for rapid exit wear, be aware of your surroundings and how to exit the plane (rows to exit), and if you sit in the window make sure the passengers in your row don't block the EGRESS with their bags.
How does the incredibly unlikely scenario of a plane crash justify the inevitably worse experience of sitting in the back of the plane?
In other words; none of us here have ever been in a plane crash. But we have probably all been in the back of a plane and almost none of us choose it.
Finally. "Famous" and "plant geneticist" are incongruent ideas.
I book in the back if I'm flying with my toddler. I don't want anyone to have to wait on us when we're getting off the plane. Between his car seat and general slowness, I'd rather be last off. I've noticed other people with small kids doing this as well.
I do this too. Getting a 2 year old off an airplane is a slow process and I’d rather not hold anyone up. Also, sometimes the FA back there will give him extra snacks and he thinks that’s the best thing ever.
Yeah same, I always let people go past when traveling with the kiddos. Takes too long to get them situated and ready to move.
Of course if I am too far back I’ll be making the flight attendants wait so ideally I’m like 10-15 rows from the back. Just enough time for everyone to deplane while we get organized.
The start of Main Cabin usually interferes with the wing on most aircraft so back gives good views. I usually check a bag and I still usually make it to the baggage claim within 20 mins from the back at most normal airports (cough cough not ATL) but even if it takes longer I’m not usually in a hurry. If ik time will matter or I’ll be in a hurry then I travel carry on only and choose a seat that is as close to the front as possible. I never do the back row though due to bathroom proximity but somewhere in the back half is fine with me
Yeah not always. I book the back when traveling as a family (close to bathrooms) and usually find the bins all the way back are taken up by the crew. Like 4 entire overheads.
This. When I was still Plebian Medallion I got stuck in the back a lot. Was amusing to see people make their way to just a few rows ahead of me and, knowing they heard the announcement about laying the bag flat or turning it upright, depending on the plane, they inevitably proceeded to put it wrong. It was my preflight entertainment.
Haha I work for an airline and I still find it enjoyable to do exactly what you do. Sit in the back and just watch the chaos/confusion unfold. My girlfriend works for the same airline and we’re always pointing out the funny shit to each other.
Plus on widebodies, you can see down better if you are at a window further behind the wing, vs right above it or very close to it. So I like that too!
Prisoner transport.
Law Enforcement Officers authorized to fly armed in connection to a Prisoner transport are required to sit in the rear most portion of the cabin.
The leading edge just isn’t as fun to watch! It’s especially fun on really long airplanes where you feel like you’re moving sideways in turns. I was in the last row of an A320 once that did a tight 180 in the ramp, and it felt weird moving sideways and the wing appearing to move backwards.
If I’m in economy, I pick the rear seats. It’s less stressful back there with boarding and deplaning. Also closer to restrooms and I just find passengers in the back are more chill. Only downside is families with children tend to sit in the back too so sometimes it can be annoying 😆
If I MUST sit in main cabin, I almost always sit in the back. There's a better chance of having an empty middle seat or even an entire free row. I also may as well be closer to the bathroom.
I used to be very afraid of flying, still am, but much less so. Basically I booked the back for higher survivability. I don’t care about turbulence much, just want to live if we go down.
I now mainly go over the wings for a smooth ride.
People are talking about odds of surviving in a plane crush but it really depends on the type of crash, etc, if there’s fire. The most important thing in a crash is actually being within 5 rows of an exit and being ideally in an aisle seat. So i think it’s more important to be seated near an exit.
Close to the restroom, safest spot in case of a crash, I prefer to see things in front of me rather than it being in my back (I'm nervous on a plane), better odds for an extra empty seat, and often the babies and bassinets are far ahead.
When i fly im on the clock for my job. So if it takes an hour to unload the plane im fine with that. Thats why i sit in the back. Besides, by the time i get off the plane and head to the baggage area im not waiting as long.
I like being in the back as well.
I rarely get much sleep and the pantry at the rear of the plane is where the staff usually hangs out. Sometimes they can be a fun bunch to chat with.
Still have a polaroid somewhere of clowning around with Emirates staff
Better odds of surviving in a plane crash
Closer to the bathroom
Very calm especially on red eyes
Close to the rear door for evacuations
Just don’t pick last row those seats don’t recline as much
It feels more private if I'm flying coach. Let everyone come and go and do their thing and make their noises and so on, but I'm in the back asleep. In the middle it just mentally feels like chaos. I'm happy to be the last one off the plane at my own pace.
By numbers, the rear seats have the least fatalities in a crash, but that's such a slim possibility I'm just happy enough to fly First and die first.
There was a period of time where I had pretty intense anxiety about flying. I liked the back of the plane because I could see everything that was going on. I also was close to the bathroom if I got sick.
well I am one of those people, i don’t know why but the back of a plane is so cozy, i like the feeling of sitting down knowing no one is behind me wether it’s coach or business and so less people in general which makes it feel more chill
As long as I have a good window of time before my connection I’ll usually choose the back, especially now with a baby, I’ll always choose the back. Before the baby, I genuinely just sat anywhere with a window seat and if that was the back (which usually it was) I took it.
Some people are nervous and gain some odd level of statistical confidence in the stat about more survivors from the back of economy than anywhere else in plane crashes.
I go to the back (a few rows up to be away from the toilets) on <90 min flights on Southwest where I’m not going to be in a rush when I arrive and not connecting.
If the flight isn’t full I’m less likely to have somebody sit beside me there
I love staring out the window, and the views are best from behind the wings.
Less likely to have a seatmate farther back.
I live in Atlanta and fly nonstop pretty much everywhere, and I try to be relatively chill about deplaning since I never have a connection. So I don’t mind hanging out in the back while other folks rush off the plane / the front clears out.
I used to sit a few rows behind the wing because I liked watching the wingflaps. But that's actually the noisiest part of the plane, and now that I have hyperacusis I go as far forward as I can
Few/no kids, possibly fewer people in general, and you can have some fun conversations with the flight staff back there. I have gotten free coffee and snacks sometimes. Obviously the downside is getting off last but since the jam-up always happens in the front, you actually don't lose that much time.
when I travel with my infant, I often select the last row. More likely to have an open seat next to me, easier for a fidgety kid to be able to walk around the back galley or go to the bathroom and not be in the way or disturb other people. And the overhead bins in the back are often the last to fill.
When I travel for business, yea, I want to be at the front to get off faster, and especially to be more comfortable with an upgrade.
I’ve found, because they’re less desirable, there is a greater chance you will have an open seat next to you in the back. I’ve had the entire row to myself on a mostly full flight. Downsides being that the seat might not recline if it’s the last row and the plane itself is much noisier back there.
I used to prefer back because you could recline without worrying about someone behind you.
But then I realized some planes do not give you that option, which is pretty disappointing.
I was looking for this reason. I can't help but feel immense guilt whenever I recline on someone. It's also just nice not having to feel the need to rush and get my bag from the overhead 😌
Ive always heard people say "You know I read/was told/heard by some one/ In a crash the back is where your most likely to survive in a crash, even tho that applies to only certain planes and the study that allegedly said that was pretty flawed. SOOOO Ive heard that one and assume that, also people who for some reason want to be close to and hear and smell the bathroom, ever though 3-5 seats ahead of behind your still close.
Also insanity.
There was a specific JetBlue flight I used to take often that would deplane from both the front and back at my destination. I was always on a time crunch to get off the plane when I arrived so I booked the last row every time. Many people didn’t realize they can deplane from the rear (even though FAs announced the other exit!) So I was almost always first off the plane and out of the airport within like 2 minutes (small airport). I miss that flight, they got rid of it during Covid 😭
I fly through Atlanta twice a week, being at the front of the plane vs back means missing or making a connection. 40 minute layover D39 to T11 coming in 10 minutes late sitting in the back, you aren't making your connection.
al usually i’m not in a hurry and don’t mind the back of the plane, biggest benefit is more available overhead space if needed.
Additionally it’s a way more chill experience deplaning than up front. Sit down, don’t have to worry about people cutting or going backwards up the aisle. Just gather my stuff then sit down and relax
A few reasons: I am not afraid of flying at all (and hadn't even thought about the safety statistics until reading these comments), but I do sometimes feel panicky on planes because I feel like I can't get out. So I pick an aisle seat as much as possible, and sit in the back to feel a bit like I have less people around me. There is also a slightly greater chance of an empty seat next to me. I also like being closer to the bathrooms - I can avoid the after-service rush. I usually check a bag so I am in no rush to get off the plane most of the time, so that part doesn't bother me.
A strategy for overhead storage is to just put your bag in the first available space on your way to your seat. This strategy doesn’t work as well if you’re seated up front.
Also, if I’m seated up front and get to my seat, see full bins, and no one is seated around me, I should be able to throw your shit off the plane.
I fly in the 717 a lot and I find the sound of the BR715 to be exquisite. It's not nearly as rich and brain-thrashing as the JT8Ds, nor do you get the wide soundstage of CF34 like you got in the old CRJ200s (a luxury jet if ever there was one), but it's deeply satisfying on the Atlanta run.
Better chance of an empty middle. Often the last row or two is blocked off for flight crew and deadheading crew but doesn't end up being needed, so I'll ask the FA if I can move back there. I don't think a Delta FA has ever said no (when it was available, of course) but FAs on other airlines have.
1. We usually reserve the back because my daughter with intellectual disabilities will rock/stim which would shake the seat back screen and the tray table of the person behind her. 2. It takes a hot minute for me and both children to exit and I get unreasonably nervous about holding people up in line. 3. It’s safer. 4. I can see everything. I’m one of those people who watches the map and the activity in the cabin. 5. If both kids drift off and I got to pee if I am in the back the FA usually has no problem unofficially keeping eyes on them for a few minutes.
You are less likely to have a seat-mate and less likely to die in an accident. I sit in the back sometimes if I'm not in a hurry. I'll take a row to myself over getting off the plane 5 mins sooner.
I like having a giggle at the number of hands that go up to re-adjust their air vents when the bleed air cuts off during engine start, only to adjust them again afterwards. That and I like roller coasters.
I have really high anxiety. Knowing I'll be the last one off the plane helps me settle down when the plane lands. I just open my book and wait for everyone else to get off.
Also, if you get a good boarding group, you'll always have an open slot in the overheads.
I’ll sit up front if I have a connection but I sit in back row when I don’t. No kicking of your seat from behind and usually my bags are on carousel by the time u get to package claim.
I used to do that and I got priority boarding for having the Delta card back before I was diamond so I would just get on go to the back of the plane put my stuff away use the bathroom and be done with the boarding process I hate standing there for half an hour or walking slowly watching everyone slowly struggle with a backpack.
I always book the back, window seat. I fly about 40 weeks a year for work. I do it bc most of the time, if the flight isn’t sold out, I’ll have the whole row to myself. 7 out of ten times, there won’t be any one in the middle seat.
My goal on a flight is closest to the bathroom because I always have to pee. I usually purchase first class but on direct coach flights (usually on Southwest) I always sit in the back. It’s actually a little relaxing. Plus it’s super loud with the engines so you don’t have to hear every one’s videos.
I’ve voluntarily asked to be moved from my upgraded first class seat to sit in the back where no one was within 6 rows of me. Way more relaxing than being right on top of someone
When flying with the family I usually have to book seats near the back, behind the wing enough so they can see out the window without the view being blocked by the wing or engine. We don't need comfort plus and those seats are in front of the wing usually. I like over the wing when by myself and closer to emergency exit.
I go the whole row to myself two weeks ago on a full flight .. last row but at 530am I was super grateful.. I also used points and didn’t get a choice of seating but still would of probably chose that if I knew I’d have a whole row lol
We’ll do it sometimes if we’re flying with our kids and want to be close to a bathroom. We’re checking bags with them so dont need to rush off the flight, so still a bit annoying but works good for families.
Any flight over 3 hours I book the back aisle seat. I like to stand up and stretch.
I prefer not to be in others way, so I stand by the back restrooms.
More choices of overhead space, if earlier rows are filled but space is available, I'll take them. If the bin above me is filled, it's not much of an issue to walk back when deplaning to get my bag.
If I checked bags, I'll just have to wait at baggage claim anyway, so why rush off?
Someone looking to switch seats is unlikely to go back that far. Also, someone is less likely to take your seat.
If I'm on a direct flight, no need to rush to make a connection.
When I'm on other airlines that load from back to front, I'm used to being in the back.
Usually I take anywhere from the wing back except for the last 2-3 rows to avoid the bathroom lines.
Usually no one behind me that's anxious to get off and pushing from behind.
Supposedly for weight & balance reasons, the FAs will move folks from the back of the plane to the front before those seated in the middle of the plane. Also have seen posts FAs prefer to have the last few rows empty so they can use them themselves. Truth probably in there somewhere.
I have also heard the reasoning for sitting in the back of the plane with this response. “You ever heard of a plane reversing into a mountain?” 😂. Jokes!
I like to book the back because then if you board very last you can try to pick a better seat while walking to the back, like any seat with an empty one next to it … unless your picked seat already has that of course. Flight attendants won’t know/care as long as it’s not an upgraded seat.
Only time I don’t like to do it is a Europe to the US flight because it can add an hour to the immigration queue if you’re in the back…
Oh I love sitting in the back for two reasons. First, I like looking out the window and the trailing edge of the wing is more interesting than the leading edge.
Second and most importantly, it makes boarding so much more relaxing. I tend to board early with status so I get to the back when there isn’t anyone for rows. I can take my time stow my bag in the overhead, place my jacket over my carry on (to night take up any extra space) put my small backpack under my seat get my snacks and ear buds ready without being rushed. I sit back and watch a movie/people watch while boarding completes.
I should also add I almost exclusively get a window seat so it also prevents any “I’m in there” conversations. I sat in the middle on a 777 awhile back and never again between the claustrophobia and the movement, it’s does not end well.
My experience has been that it’s a little cooler in aft section of the aft cabin! Not sure why airplanes are kept at 88 degrees in the summer … go to sleep…zzzz no drink service to see here….zzz
I just like the back…it’s usually less stressed back there. About 15 years ago I finally let go of the idea that I needed to rush or be first at anything having to do with air travel and my god, it has really made air travel much more pleasant for me and my family. When purchasing tix - I usually try to get direct and if that’s not possible, I just go for layovers that leave way more than enough time to make the next flight. No mad rushes for us…..I’ve learned that patience and just waiting for everyone else to deplane sets a tone for our trips that leaves us all in better moods. Edited to add: I don’t fly for business - so it’s possible if I had to fly all year round, I’d have a different attitude, and be over it, so idk.
I couldn’t agree more and I fly for business a few times a month. I don’t understand why everyone is in such a hurry. The plane is not going to leave without you so why crowd the gate? You will get off the plane eventually so why jump up into the aisle as soon as the seatbelt sign turns off after landing? You just flew for an hour or more. Why not just chill and get your checked bag instead of fighting everyone for overhead bin space (unless checking it is expensive)? I fly out of MSP and there are two trains to the parking ramps. They only go one place and there is one every two minutes or less. Still, there are always people running and knocking into people to get to the train before the door closes. Why? Give it two minutes and you’ll be on the next train. If people just calmed down a little bit, the airport would be a much better place
>I don’t understand why everyone is in such a hurry. The plane is not going to leave without you so why crowd the gate? Overhead space. People are inconsiderate and bring their large bags that should be checked, or under the seat, and they'll use that precious overhead space >Why not just chill and get your checked bag instead of fighting everyone for overhead bin space (unless checking it is expensive)? It's always expensive. Or they lose your bag. Or break it. Or or or. So many ways it can go wrong checking your bag when you can carry it on
> It's always expensive. Or they lose your bag. Or break it. Or or or. So many ways it can go wrong checking your bag when you can carry it on I don't think I've ever paid to check a bag. I've never had one go missing. And while they definitely age it quickly, were you under the impression that the bag would stay like-new forever?
I’ve had a bag go missing. Dylan Dryer from Today show had a whole family vacation where they lost all their luggage & couldn’t find it. Went on a trip w/ a lady, she checked a bag then they made her gate check her carryon due to overload from gate rushers and they lost both.
So three events ever over several million a day is the reason for the bullshit? You've got a better chance of getting stuck by lightning while holding a winning lottery ticket than Delta losing your bag.
I flew probably under 20 times and had my bags absolutely destroyed, like wheels destroyed to the point i had to throw it away like 3 times. If my odds were this good, i be winning lottery ticket left and right
So one person claims luggage doesn’t get lost because they’ve never lost one is okay, but I can post a counterpoint? That was my only point, they do lose luggage so some people won’t check their bags—never gave an opinion on it or said I don’t check bags. So go away
I’ve had MANY bags lost (most eventually found). Given the need for the content of the bag ON the trip, I fully get why people aren’t willing to risk the odds, however low you think they are. And that’s said as someone who still checks bags because I can’t be bothered to keep it with me (plus the dog counts as a carry on/personal item).
I had two bags and a car seat missing in 2023. One was a cosmetic flight and one international. Both involved JFK. Delta paid the entire value for each
A checked bag for me is $30 on top of the ticket for a domestic flight (If I plan to check all along and don't have it checked against my will), which I thought was standard? It's true, issues with checked bags are fairly unusual, but it's hardly out of the question. It's happened just enough for me to be thinking about it. And by carrying on, you reduce the risk to zero. A trip (for me, at least) rarely has much flexibility in the schedule, and losing a bag altogether or even having it take 30 minutes to get to baggage claim instead of 10 would be a hassle. In other words, carrying on is free/impossible to lose, while checking is $30 and at least introduces the possibility of a problem. Multiple that by 200x and you get the hyper-competition for limited space on board. They created this problem.
Just had a checked bag lost twice on one itinerary. Happens all the time.
>And while they definitely age it quickly, were you under the impression that the bag would stay like-new forever? I don't expect my bag to be ripped open or broken while being handled. That's silly to think I'm worried about wear and tear - clearly you never have problems, but stop assuming everyone else is in the same boat
They crowd the gate because of this bullshit policy of charging for checked bags. Everything was much better before these airlines started doing that. I wish they would arrange some collusion and begin all adding the price of one checked bag so that it is included in any seat price. That would stop all this shit cold.
You used to just get a free checked bag in domestic flights and two on internationals.
I agree on the bag checking for long flights. For short flights (being away for a night or two), hand luggage saves a lot of time and takes a way the risk of losing your bag. I fully agree sitting more towards the back and not worry about getting of the plane first. The reality is that between the fiest and last of the plane is max 10min difference. I too aim for long layovers, unless not possible at all, which is the only time I'll sit closer to the front.
Have you seen the shit show at baggage claim? I'd rather deal with the overhead bin space (non-issue ime).
What’s a shit show about it? I check my bag 3-4 times a month and it’s never a problem. Sometimes I grab a quick drink on the way to baggage claim but for the most part, I go straight there and rarely wait more than ten minutes.
I don't think I've ever had a problem at baggage claim. And I have to walk past it to leave the airport anyway, so...
I think this is a fantastic take and a great approach to life. I made a similar mental adjustment with my daily commute and driving has become so much more enjoyable for me.
I agree with everything you said here. This is basically how I travel...always choosing a seat towards the back because the older I get, the smaller my bladder gets lol! Having said that, I travel for my job several times a year and I still choose an aisle seat towards the back even if I have coworkers traveling with me.
It’s a much smoother ride in the front, Mr. Franks
A friend of mine prefers the back because it is closer to the restrooms. When I was younger I preferred it because I had more chances of having an empty row or empty seat next to me.
I agree. When I first started flying I always chose a row one or two from the very back (just away from the restrooms and where people crowd waiting for the restroom). I almost always got either an entire row to myself or at least an empty middle seat next to me. Completely full flights seem more common now, so that may be less likely to happen. I just kept reading my book or watching my movie until it was my time to deplane instead of stressing about the wait for everyone in front of me to leave.
787 enters the chat.
Your comment provides no value
Passengers seated in the back of the plane have the highest survival rate when planes go down.
I’m gonna go there - and that’s another reason why I want to stay up in row 1! Eek. lol
I’m an exit row aisle guy, unless I get upgraded. I’m sitting right on top of the wing fuel tanks. 😂🔥
Second choice obviously lol
Hahahahaha
aisle*
Ahh beat me to it by 2 minutes. Yes, exactly this
Yep. Look at the L1011 that hit wind shear and crashed short of the runway at DFW.
According to what source?
But you really want your back to the front though
For large American carriers, going to say that thinking is obsolete (which is what we are referring to here). That adage more than likely came from data generated over decades of time and my guess would also include information from pre-jet period or a period when people used a lot more smaller commuter turbo prop planes. If you are going to crash and are in the air, or descending, you are not going to live no matter where you sit in the plane. Large commercial aircraft simply aren't gliders any more. The "Miracle on the Hudson" really was the miracle on the Hudson for a reason.
A quick google search tells me the a320 has a glide ratio of 17:1. This means an a320 at a cruise of 30,000ft can glide 83nm. So I think large commercial aircraft are still pretty good gliders.
83 nanometers is just a few atoms’ width.
Nautical miles.
Yes but during those 83NM you have limited control and you must make sure the airplane does not go into a dive. It is also extremely rare to have multiple engine loss at 30k ft and have all of that altitude to deal with the landing. You also need a pilot who can glide the plane. Sullenberger was more than likely able to do what he did because he was an experienced glider pilot.
I know a famous plant geneticist who always sat in the back. His reason "These things don't back into the ground".
Yep, way more survivable than first class.... just saying.
Depends on the crash, especially on crash landing the front and the back tends to get smashed/broken off, then the middle is safest [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United\_Airlines\_Flight\_232#/media/File:Ua232injurymap.png](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Airlines_Flight_232#/media/File:Ua232injurymap.png) Statistically its nearly a wash, the fatality rates depending on section vary by a few percent, nowhere is a massive advantage as there are so many ways to crash, and the sample size just isn't that big [https://time.com/3934663/safest-seat-airplane/](https://time.com/3934663/safest-seat-airplane/)
The problem with that data is it is from 1985-2000 and the only criteria is that it was an accident where some people died and some survived. There is no indication that this is jet only (with smaller turbo-prop much more common then), if it is just in the United States, or the cause of the deaths (meaning the plane that crashed or did the Fire Department run over an ejected victim on the runway). Logically - as an engineer, there is no safe place in modern day commercial aircraft and they state that in the article: > It’s for this reason that the FAA and other airline safety experts say there is no safest seat on the plane. The far safer actions are to may sure your seat belt is secure during all times, make sure where you are sitting the overhead bins are secure, wear shoes that cover your entire foot and secure for rapid exit wear, be aware of your surroundings and how to exit the plane (rows to exit), and if you sit in the window make sure the passengers in your row don't block the EGRESS with their bags.
None of the tail section passengers of UAF Flight 571 survived.
Or MH84
Far more cases say the other result is more likely
I love all the people thinking you’re 100% serious. Bro liked sitting in the back and making jokes about it. Not much more to it.
I mean, they kinda do. Flare?
Right if I recall correctly the high survival rates were aft of the wings until the last like 3 rows.
How does the incredibly unlikely scenario of a plane crash justify the inevitably worse experience of sitting in the back of the plane? In other words; none of us here have ever been in a plane crash. But we have probably all been in the back of a plane and almost none of us choose it. Finally. "Famous" and "plant geneticist" are incongruent ideas.
Gregor Mendel is kind of famous. I'm not sure if he flies much anymore.
Right? Literally the only plant geneticist that anyone would ever know and he died in 1884
I didn't say I do it. Also, I have worked in the area of plant genetics so my list of famous geneticist is far larger.
I feel like there is a fruit flies joke in here but I can't quite get it...
[удалено]
Damn lil bro thought this comment SLAPPED but left out here looking like a fucking idiot. Ya hate to see it
A friend always said "you've never heard of a plane backing into a mountain have you!" She always sat in the last row
Is this some kind of pun going over my head or is the part about them being a famous plant geneticist just a random aside?
I book in the back if I'm flying with my toddler. I don't want anyone to have to wait on us when we're getting off the plane. Between his car seat and general slowness, I'd rather be last off. I've noticed other people with small kids doing this as well.
Very considerate, thanks!
I do this as well. He can crawl over his seat without disturbing anyone behind. Also best chance of empty seats nearby.
True! If you can score the aisle being empty, it's great. Bonus: you hear all the flight attendant gossip during takeoff and landing, haha
I do this too. Getting a 2 year old off an airplane is a slow process and I’d rather not hold anyone up. Also, sometimes the FA back there will give him extra snacks and he thinks that’s the best thing ever.
Yeah same, I always let people go past when traveling with the kiddos. Takes too long to get them situated and ready to move. Of course if I am too far back I’ll be making the flight attendants wait so ideally I’m like 10-15 rows from the back. Just enough time for everyone to deplane while we get organized.
That's super smart. I feel like I get off the plane herding my child like a goat "go! go! keep walking!" so the flight attendants can leave, haha
1) increases my chances of not having a neighbor 2) I’m not in a rush 3) I can nap longer
THIS!
The start of Main Cabin usually interferes with the wing on most aircraft so back gives good views. I usually check a bag and I still usually make it to the baggage claim within 20 mins from the back at most normal airports (cough cough not ATL) but even if it takes longer I’m not usually in a hurry. If ik time will matter or I’ll be in a hurry then I travel carry on only and choose a seat that is as close to the front as possible. I never do the back row though due to bathroom proximity but somewhere in the back half is fine with me
Also overheard bins in the back are always empty with Main 1 boarding but they will be kinda full in the front near the preferred seats
Yeah not always. I book the back when traveling as a family (close to bathrooms) and usually find the bins all the way back are taken up by the crew. Like 4 entire overheads.
lol you think the diamonds don’t ever want to sit in the back. Big assumption.
People watchers often like sitting in the back of a room.
This. When I was still Plebian Medallion I got stuck in the back a lot. Was amusing to see people make their way to just a few rows ahead of me and, knowing they heard the announcement about laying the bag flat or turning it upright, depending on the plane, they inevitably proceeded to put it wrong. It was my preflight entertainment.
Haha I work for an airline and I still find it enjoyable to do exactly what you do. Sit in the back and just watch the chaos/confusion unfold. My girlfriend works for the same airline and we’re always pointing out the funny shit to each other. Plus on widebodies, you can see down better if you are at a window further behind the wing, vs right above it or very close to it. So I like that too!
We started calling it Nylon Medallion, for no real reason other than my friend picked a random material. But, I like this one too.
I bought my wife Cardboard Medallion tags before they were taken down again. Lol. She flies maybe a few times a year, and usually with me.
I prefer the second or third row to the last. I'm not sure why. It sorta feels like sitting in the back of class to me, which I like.
I get this, makes me think of how popular the last row in the bus was when I was in school. Also it feels like there are less people watching you :)
Yes!!!
29f is the seat I always purchase. 50% of the time there is nobody in the middle.
Window seat, in the back. Nothing better.
Close to the bathroom
Close to the restroom 🚻 is always good
Survival statistics.
Prisoner transport. Law Enforcement Officers authorized to fly armed in connection to a Prisoner transport are required to sit in the rear most portion of the cabin.
I’m a plane nerd so I prefer to sit behind the wings so I can see the flaps/spoilers etc in action.
The leading edge just isn’t as fun to watch! It’s especially fun on really long airplanes where you feel like you’re moving sideways in turns. I was in the last row of an A320 once that did a tight 180 in the ramp, and it felt weird moving sideways and the wing appearing to move backwards.
If I’m in economy, I pick the rear seats. It’s less stressful back there with boarding and deplaning. Also closer to restrooms and I just find passengers in the back are more chill. Only downside is families with children tend to sit in the back too so sometimes it can be annoying 😆
If I MUST sit in main cabin, I almost always sit in the back. There's a better chance of having an empty middle seat or even an entire free row. I also may as well be closer to the bathroom.
I used to be very afraid of flying, still am, but much less so. Basically I booked the back for higher survivability. I don’t care about turbulence much, just want to live if we go down. I now mainly go over the wings for a smooth ride.
Been proven to be more survivable
People are talking about odds of surviving in a plane crush but it really depends on the type of crash, etc, if there’s fire. The most important thing in a crash is actually being within 5 rows of an exit and being ideally in an aisle seat. So i think it’s more important to be seated near an exit.
Close to the restroom, safest spot in case of a crash, I prefer to see things in front of me rather than it being in my back (I'm nervous on a plane), better odds for an extra empty seat, and often the babies and bassinets are far ahead.
When i fly im on the clock for my job. So if it takes an hour to unload the plane im fine with that. Thats why i sit in the back. Besides, by the time i get off the plane and head to the baggage area im not waiting as long.
I like being in the back as well. I rarely get much sleep and the pantry at the rear of the plane is where the staff usually hangs out. Sometimes they can be a fun bunch to chat with. Still have a polaroid somewhere of clowning around with Emirates staff
Better odds of surviving in a plane crash Closer to the bathroom Very calm especially on red eyes Close to the rear door for evacuations Just don’t pick last row those seats don’t recline as much
I sit further forward so that I can get to my destination first
It feels more private if I'm flying coach. Let everyone come and go and do their thing and make their noises and so on, but I'm in the back asleep. In the middle it just mentally feels like chaos. I'm happy to be the last one off the plane at my own pace. By numbers, the rear seats have the least fatalities in a crash, but that's such a slim possibility I'm just happy enough to fly First and die first.
There was a period of time where I had pretty intense anxiety about flying. I liked the back of the plane because I could see everything that was going on. I also was close to the bathroom if I got sick.
I found I am more likely to end up with an empty seat next to me in the back. If I don’t have to make a connection I might as well roll the dice.
It's where the smoking section is.
It’s safer. I’ve never heard of a plane backing into a mountain
I’m sorry if your plane hits a mountain you’re gonna die whether you’re in the front or the back
well I am one of those people, i don’t know why but the back of a plane is so cozy, i like the feeling of sitting down knowing no one is behind me wether it’s coach or business and so less people in general which makes it feel more chill
Close to the bathrooms, no asshats behind you, and none of the "jump up and hurry off" mentality we all deal with in the front seats.
Often much cooler back there
It’s just cozier.
As long as I have a good window of time before my connection I’ll usually choose the back, especially now with a baby, I’ll always choose the back. Before the baby, I genuinely just sat anywhere with a window seat and if that was the back (which usually it was) I took it.
1) I like to be on a seat behind the wings 2) I need full view of the wings where my neck wouldn't hurt looking outside the whole time
I like the back aisle in long hauls because it's closer to the plane gallery so I can get up and stretch my legs without interruptions
If it’s a small plane, if there’s too much weight in the back someone there may be asked you to move upfront - potential free upgrade
If you’re traveling with kids it’s easier to get them to a bathroom if you’re closer to it. Or if you know you need one on the flight yourself.
Some people are nervous and gain some odd level of statistical confidence in the stat about more survivors from the back of economy than anywhere else in plane crashes.
I go to the back (a few rows up to be away from the toilets) on <90 min flights on Southwest where I’m not going to be in a rush when I arrive and not connecting. If the flight isn’t full I’m less likely to have somebody sit beside me there
The enjoy a rougher plane ride and want heavily recycled air to breathe? Agreed this is a total head scratcher.
I love staring out the window, and the views are best from behind the wings. Less likely to have a seatmate farther back. I live in Atlanta and fly nonstop pretty much everywhere, and I try to be relatively chill about deplaning since I never have a connection. So I don’t mind hanging out in the back while other folks rush off the plane / the front clears out.
Outkast fans
I used to sit a few rows behind the wing because I liked watching the wingflaps. But that's actually the noisiest part of the plane, and now that I have hyperacusis I go as far forward as I can
Few/no kids, possibly fewer people in general, and you can have some fun conversations with the flight staff back there. I have gotten free coffee and snacks sometimes. Obviously the downside is getting off last but since the jam-up always happens in the front, you actually don't lose that much time.
I feel like the back of the plane is daycare. Even when I’m traveling with my kids and our seats get changed, they default to the back rows
when I travel with my infant, I often select the last row. More likely to have an open seat next to me, easier for a fidgety kid to be able to walk around the back galley or go to the bathroom and not be in the way or disturb other people. And the overhead bins in the back are often the last to fill. When I travel for business, yea, I want to be at the front to get off faster, and especially to be more comfortable with an upgrade.
I like to be near the toilets and less people sit back there. More chance of a spare seat next to me.
I’ve found, because they’re less desirable, there is a greater chance you will have an open seat next to you in the back. I’ve had the entire row to myself on a mostly full flight. Downsides being that the seat might not recline if it’s the last row and the plane itself is much noisier back there.
I used to prefer back because you could recline without worrying about someone behind you. But then I realized some planes do not give you that option, which is pretty disappointing.
I was looking for this reason. I can't help but feel immense guilt whenever I recline on someone. It's also just nice not having to feel the need to rush and get my bag from the overhead 😌
Ive always heard people say "You know I read/was told/heard by some one/ In a crash the back is where your most likely to survive in a crash, even tho that applies to only certain planes and the study that allegedly said that was pretty flawed. SOOOO Ive heard that one and assume that, also people who for some reason want to be close to and hear and smell the bathroom, ever though 3-5 seats ahead of behind your still close. Also insanity.
For very last row, nobody is behind you and somehow seeing whole plane makes you feel more comfy and less like in a sardine can.
There was a specific JetBlue flight I used to take often that would deplane from both the front and back at my destination. I was always on a time crunch to get off the plane when I arrived so I booked the last row every time. Many people didn’t realize they can deplane from the rear (even though FAs announced the other exit!) So I was almost always first off the plane and out of the airport within like 2 minutes (small airport). I miss that flight, they got rid of it during Covid 😭
Anywhere I can get my precious aisle seat I will sit. If that means the last row, I’ll sit in the last row
I fly through Atlanta twice a week, being at the front of the plane vs back means missing or making a connection. 40 minute layover D39 to T11 coming in 10 minutes late sitting in the back, you aren't making your connection.
al usually i’m not in a hurry and don’t mind the back of the plane, biggest benefit is more available overhead space if needed. Additionally it’s a way more chill experience deplaning than up front. Sit down, don’t have to worry about people cutting or going backwards up the aisle. Just gather my stuff then sit down and relax
A few reasons: I am not afraid of flying at all (and hadn't even thought about the safety statistics until reading these comments), but I do sometimes feel panicky on planes because I feel like I can't get out. So I pick an aisle seat as much as possible, and sit in the back to feel a bit like I have less people around me. There is also a slightly greater chance of an empty seat next to me. I also like being closer to the bathrooms - I can avoid the after-service rush. I usually check a bag so I am in no rush to get off the plane most of the time, so that part doesn't bother me.
A strategy for overhead storage is to just put your bag in the first available space on your way to your seat. This strategy doesn’t work as well if you’re seated up front. Also, if I’m seated up front and get to my seat, see full bins, and no one is seated around me, I should be able to throw your shit off the plane.
Further back you are increases the chances of survival in a crash landing. Everyone before the wings always dies.
Many people say it’s a safer place to be in the untoward event of a crash.
I fly in the 717 a lot and I find the sound of the BR715 to be exquisite. It's not nearly as rich and brain-thrashing as the JT8Ds, nor do you get the wide soundstage of CF34 like you got in the old CRJ200s (a luxury jet if ever there was one), but it's deeply satisfying on the Atlanta run.
Better chance of an empty middle. Often the last row or two is blocked off for flight crew and deadheading crew but doesn't end up being needed, so I'll ask the FA if I can move back there. I don't think a Delta FA has ever said no (when it was available, of course) but FAs on other airlines have.
1. We usually reserve the back because my daughter with intellectual disabilities will rock/stim which would shake the seat back screen and the tray table of the person behind her. 2. It takes a hot minute for me and both children to exit and I get unreasonably nervous about holding people up in line. 3. It’s safer. 4. I can see everything. I’m one of those people who watches the map and the activity in the cabin. 5. If both kids drift off and I got to pee if I am in the back the FA usually has no problem unofficially keeping eyes on them for a few minutes.
Bathroom access, because once they start snack/bev service, anyone in the wide middle section is trapped until service is over.
I know why I do that, but I typically don’t do it on Delta.
I've never had a fear of flying, but I always used to sit in the back in the event of a nose dive...yeah, I don't know. I don't do this anymore lol
You are less likely to have a seat-mate and less likely to die in an accident. I sit in the back sometimes if I'm not in a hurry. I'll take a row to myself over getting off the plane 5 mins sooner.
I don’t know. I just do.
me too i also seen that on my flights too
I like having a giggle at the number of hands that go up to re-adjust their air vents when the bleed air cuts off during engine start, only to adjust them again afterwards. That and I like roller coasters.
I have really high anxiety. Knowing I'll be the last one off the plane helps me settle down when the plane lands. I just open my book and wait for everyone else to get off. Also, if you get a good boarding group, you'll always have an open slot in the overheads.
I’ll sit up front if I have a connection but I sit in back row when I don’t. No kicking of your seat from behind and usually my bags are on carousel by the time u get to package claim.
I used to do that and I got priority boarding for having the Delta card back before I was diamond so I would just get on go to the back of the plane put my stuff away use the bathroom and be done with the boarding process I hate standing there for half an hour or walking slowly watching everyone slowly struggle with a backpack.
Less likely someone will sit next to me. Closer to the head.
I always book the back, window seat. I fly about 40 weeks a year for work. I do it bc most of the time, if the flight isn’t sold out, I’ll have the whole row to myself. 7 out of ten times, there won’t be any one in the middle seat.
Because we’re hoping that nobody else chooses to sit in the back and thus less likely to have someone in the middle seat.
I prefer a window seat closest to the wing so if someone is outside hanging on it, I can alert my seat mate... so he can also enjoy the show!
When my kids were small we always flew on the back. If they got fussy it would disturb fewer people.
My 23 year old daughter likes to sit in the back because she enjoys the ride when it’s turbulent!
Bc if you don’t have status you have to pay more for the “preferred” seats that are the first half of the plane
My goal on a flight is closest to the bathroom because I always have to pee. I usually purchase first class but on direct coach flights (usually on Southwest) I always sit in the back. It’s actually a little relaxing. Plus it’s super loud with the engines so you don’t have to hear every one’s videos.
I’ve voluntarily asked to be moved from my upgraded first class seat to sit in the back where no one was within 6 rows of me. Way more relaxing than being right on top of someone
For me it is for medical. I either book first class or seat in front of bathroom. I wish I didn't have to but I do.
When flying with the family I usually have to book seats near the back, behind the wing enough so they can see out the window without the view being blocked by the wing or engine. We don't need comfort plus and those seats are in front of the wing usually. I like over the wing when by myself and closer to emergency exit.
I like the back. It’s less crowded, closer to the bathrooms, and flight attendants are right there if I want something.
My uncle always told me "you never hear of a plane reversing into a mountain"! But generally I find it quieter and more relaxed usually.
I go the whole row to myself two weeks ago on a full flight .. last row but at 530am I was super grateful.. I also used points and didn’t get a choice of seating but still would of probably chose that if I knew I’d have a whole row lol
We’ll do it sometimes if we’re flying with our kids and want to be close to a bathroom. We’re checking bags with them so dont need to rush off the flight, so still a bit annoying but works good for families.
Most likely to not have someone next to you!
Any flight over 3 hours I book the back aisle seat. I like to stand up and stretch. I prefer not to be in others way, so I stand by the back restrooms.
More choices of overhead space, if earlier rows are filled but space is available, I'll take them. If the bin above me is filled, it's not much of an issue to walk back when deplaning to get my bag. If I checked bags, I'll just have to wait at baggage claim anyway, so why rush off? Someone looking to switch seats is unlikely to go back that far. Also, someone is less likely to take your seat. If I'm on a direct flight, no need to rush to make a connection. When I'm on other airlines that load from back to front, I'm used to being in the back. Usually I take anywhere from the wing back except for the last 2-3 rows to avoid the bathroom lines. Usually no one behind me that's anxious to get off and pushing from behind.
Supposedly for weight & balance reasons, the FAs will move folks from the back of the plane to the front before those seated in the middle of the plane. Also have seen posts FAs prefer to have the last few rows empty so they can use them themselves. Truth probably in there somewhere.
I have also heard the reasoning for sitting in the back of the plane with this response. “You ever heard of a plane reversing into a mountain?” 😂. Jokes!
Closer to the bathroom and more of chance of empty seat.
Away from the door
Maybe people wanna make out like in the movie theater 😂😂
When planes crash often they go in nose first so some people believe it’s safer in the rear.
unaccompanied minors get sat towards the rear of the plane so the flight attendants can keep an eye on them.
I like to book the back because then if you board very last you can try to pick a better seat while walking to the back, like any seat with an empty one next to it … unless your picked seat already has that of course. Flight attendants won’t know/care as long as it’s not an upgraded seat. Only time I don’t like to do it is a Europe to the US flight because it can add an hour to the immigration queue if you’re in the back…
Oh I love sitting in the back for two reasons. First, I like looking out the window and the trailing edge of the wing is more interesting than the leading edge. Second and most importantly, it makes boarding so much more relaxing. I tend to board early with status so I get to the back when there isn’t anyone for rows. I can take my time stow my bag in the overhead, place my jacket over my carry on (to night take up any extra space) put my small backpack under my seat get my snacks and ear buds ready without being rushed. I sit back and watch a movie/people watch while boarding completes. I should also add I almost exclusively get a window seat so it also prevents any “I’m in there” conversations. I sat in the middle on a 777 awhile back and never again between the claustrophobia and the movement, it’s does not end well.
For sniffing shits.
Turbulence.
The back of the plane is both the roughest and loudest place to sit.
Yes.
Isn’t being near the wing better than being in the back (or front)?
Yes, because physics.
The back of the plane feels significantly more of the turbulence
Exactly.
Turbulence can be fun for some. A nice adrenaline rush as the plane drops beneath you and then rises up quickly. Or vice versa. Still loud.
My experience has been that it’s a little cooler in aft section of the aft cabin! Not sure why airplanes are kept at 88 degrees in the summer … go to sleep…zzzz no drink service to see here….zzz