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$9.99 (as of September 15, 2024 12:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Imagine booking a prime window seat on your next flight, excited to capture those in-flight cloudscapes, only to find a blank wall where your window should be. Disappointing, right? In “The Best Way To Tell If Your Airplane Window Seat Is Actually Windowless,” you’ll learn how to sidestep this unwelcome surprise. This article offers practical tips on researching your flight’s cabin layout ahead of time using tools like aeroLOPA, ensuring you always get the view you desire. Discover why some seats lack windows and what to do if you find yourself in one, along with unexpected perks that might even make you appreciate the extra wall space. Have you ever booked a window seat on a flight, only to find that there’s no actual window next to your seat? It’s a surprisingly common scenario that can lead to serious disappointment, especially for those who love catching a glimpse of the clouds or the city below. Knowing how to ensure your window seat comes with an actual window is a skill every frequent flyer should master.
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The Popularity of Window Seats
Why Do People Prefer Window Seats?
According to a survey by Going.com, 53% of travelers prefer window seats when flying. The reasons are straightforward:
- Beautiful Views: The ability to see the landscape from thousands of feet in the air is a unique experience.
- Privacy: You only have one person next to you, rather than being sandwiched between two strangers.
- Comfort: You can sleep more easily with something to lean against.
The Disappointment of Windowless Seats
Imagine bracing for a breathtaking view, only to be greeted by a blank wall. It’s an unfortunate surprise that has happened to many travelers, including Twitter user @gabipaonessa and Reddit user u/anmiko.
Why Do Windowless Seats Exist?
Structural Integrity
Windowless window seats are not just a cruel joke; they serve a structural purpose. The areas where sections of the plane are fused together often cannot support a window. Without these design choices, the aircraft wouldn’t be strong enough to hold itself together.
Aircraft Components
Planes are complex machinery with numerous essential components, such as:
- Avionics: These are aviation electronics crucial for the plane’s operation.
- Mechanical Pieces: Various mechanical components might need space within the aircraft walls.
- Air Conditioning Ducts: The comfort of all passengers depends on functioning air systems.
Emergency Exits
Seats next to emergency exits often lack windows because the design of the emergency door does not allow for one. According to Nicky Kelvin, head of The Points Guy UK, the safety and design priorities of an aircraft can sometimes lead to eliminating the window in favor of other functionalities.
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How to Avoid a Windowless Window Seat
Research Seat Maps
Airline seat maps are your first line of defense. Websites like aeroLOPA go beyond basic airline maps to show window placements and other helpful features such as lavatories and galley locations. This extra step can save you from an uncomfortable surprise.
| Airline | Seat Map Website | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | aeroLOPA | Window placements, galley, bathrooms |
| American | SeatGuru | Customer reviews, seat features |
| United | SeatExpert | Detailed seat maps, customer comments |
Ask During Booking
While booking, you can often see a map of available seats. If a seat map isn’t available, call the airline’s customer service to ask for specifics about seat locations and features.
Frequent Flyers’ Tips
Frequent flyers have shared some useful tips over the years:
- Back of the Plane: Windowless seats are often in the rear sections.
- Exit Rows: Be cautious of choosing an exit row seat if you want a window view.
What If You End Up With One?
Request to Move
If you find yourself stuck in a windowless seat, you can always ask the cabin crew if there are other seats available. Be polite and explain your situation.
Leverage Airline Policies
Some airlines empower their staff to help inconvenienced passengers. For instance, a Delta flight attendant said she could offer free airline miles or other perks to passengers in less-desirable seats.
Find the Silver Lining
Not having a window isn’t all bad. Here are some unexpected benefits:
- Resting Your Head: You can lean against the wall without worrying about UV rays.
- Extra Legroom: Some windowless aisles provide more legroom without the extra cost.
- Less Distraction: No window means fewer distractions, which can be conducive to work or sleep.
Conclusion
Booking window seats can be a gamble unless you know your way around airline seat maps and are prepared to do a bit of research. By taking proactive steps, you can avoid the disappointment of being stuck next to a wall instead of a window. And if you do find yourself in a windowless seat, knowing how to make the best of the situation can turn a potential negative into a positive.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the quirks and surprises of modern air travel. Safe travels and enjoy those beautiful skies!
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