Air travel can be a stressful experience, and choosing the right seat on a plane can make all the difference. While some frequent flyers may have their preferred seating arrangements, others may not be aware of the potential drawbacks of certain seats. One such seat to avoid is the last row on a plane.
Passengers who choose to sit in the last row of a plane may be in for an uncomfortable journey. For starters, these seats may not recline fully or at all, leaving passengers with little room to stretch out. Additionally, the last row is often situated near the lavatories, which can lead to unpleasant smells and noise. Passengers may also experience turbulence more severely in the back of the plane, which can be a cause of discomfort or even motion sickness.
While some may think that choosing the last row guarantees a quieter experience, this is not always the case. Flight attendants may congregate in the back of the plane, chatting and preparing for service, which can be disruptive to passengers trying to rest. Furthermore, the last row may be the first to experience any disruptions or delays during boarding or deplaning, as passengers in front of them may take longer to stow their luggage or exit the plane.
Limited Recline and Comfort
Recline Restrictions
Passengers seated in the last row of the plane often face limited recline options. This is because the last row seats are usually located in front of a non-reclining wall or bulkhead. As a result, passengers seated in the last row are unable to recline their seats fully, which can lead to discomfort during long flights.
In addition to limited recline, passengers seated in the last row are also more likely to experience discomfort due to the proximity of the galley and lavatories. The constant noise and activity in these areas can be disruptive and make it difficult to relax or sleep.
Proximity to Galley and Lavatories
The galley and lavatories are often located at the back of the plane, which means that passengers seated in the last row are often located near these high-traffic areas. This can lead to a number of discomforts, including noise from carts being pushed and the sound of toilets flushing.
Furthermore, passengers seated in the last row may also experience a lack of privacy due to the proximity of the lavatories. This can be particularly uncomfortable for passengers who are trying to sleep or relax during the flight.
Overall, passengers should avoid the last row of the plane if possible to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable flight experience.
Noise and Disturbance Factors
Engine Noise
Sitting at the last row of the plane can be a noisy and uncomfortable experience. One of the primary reasons for this is the engine noise. The engines are located at the back of the plane, and sitting at the last row can expose passengers to higher levels of noise and vibration. This can be particularly bothersome during takeoff and landing when the engines are working at their highest capacity.
According to a study by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the noise levels at the back of the plane can be as high as 85 decibels, which is equivalent to the noise level of a lawnmower. This can contribute to hearing damage, fatigue, and stress.
Crew and Passenger Traffic
Another factor that can contribute to noise and disturbance at the last row is the crew and passenger traffic. Passengers seated at the back of the plane are often near the galley and lavatories, which can be noisy and busy areas. Flight attendants and passengers walking back and forth can create a constant flow of movement and noise, making it difficult to relax or sleep.
In addition, passengers seated at the back of the plane may experience more turbulence due to the plane’s center of gravity. This can lead to more jostling and movement, which can be uncomfortable and disruptive.
Overall, sitting at the last row of the plane can be a less than ideal experience due to the increased noise and disturbance factors. While it may be tempting to choose these seats for their proximity to the lavatory or the possibility of an empty row, passengers should consider the potential drawbacks before making their decision.
Safety and Evacuation Concerns
Distance to Emergency Exits
Passengers seated in the last row of the plane are often farthest away from the emergency exits. In the event of an emergency, every second counts, and the longer it takes to reach the exit, the higher the risk of injury or death. Being seated in the last row could add precious seconds to the evacuation process, which could be the difference between life and death.
Potential Obstructions
Another safety concern for passengers seated in the last row is the potential for obstructions during an emergency evacuation. Passengers seated in the last row are often the last to leave the plane, and by the time they reach the emergency exit, debris from the cabin could have blocked their path. This could make it difficult or even impossible for them to exit the plane in a timely and safe manner.
To ensure a safe and speedy evacuation, it’s important to choose a seat that’s close to an emergency exit. While the last row may offer some advantages, such as more legroom or the ability to recline without disturbing other passengers, the potential safety risks outweigh these benefits.
Temperature Control Issues
Inconsistent Heating and Cooling
Passengers seated in the last row of a plane often experience temperature control issues. One of the most common problems is inconsistent heating and cooling. The temperature at the back of the plane can vary greatly from the rest of the cabin, making it uncomfortable for passengers.
During takeoff and landing, the temperature at the back of the plane can be significantly hotter due to the proximity to the engines. As a result, passengers may feel uncomfortably warm during these times. On the other hand, during cruising altitude, the temperature at the back of the plane can be much cooler due to the distance from the air conditioning system. This can cause passengers to feel cold and uncomfortable.
Moreover, the air conditioning system may not work as efficiently at the back of the plane. The air flow can be weaker, and the temperature control may not be as accurate. This can result in a stuffy and uncomfortable environment for passengers.
To avoid these temperature control issues, it is recommended to avoid the last row of the plane. Passengers can choose a seat closer to the front of the cabin where temperature control is more consistent and efficient.
Reduced Service Quality
Passengers seated in the last row of the plane often experience reduced service quality. Here are some reasons why:
Last to Be Served
Passengers seated in the last row of the plane are often the last to be served by the flight attendants. This is because the flight attendants start from the front of the plane and work their way towards the back. By the time they reach the last row, they may have run out of certain food options or beverages. This can be frustrating for passengers, especially if they have a preference for a particular meal or drink.
Limited Selection Options
Passengers seated in the last row of the plane may also have limited selection options when it comes to meal choices. By the time the flight attendants reach the last row, some meal options may have already been sold out. This means that passengers may have to settle for a meal that they do not prefer or go without a meal altogether.
In addition, passengers seated in the last row may have limited access to overhead bin space, which can be a problem if they have carry-on luggage. Overall, it is best to avoid the last row on a plane if possible to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable flight experience.
0 Comments