Aisle Seats at the Back, Away from the Engines
Flying is considered a safe mode of transportation, but many people still experience a fear of flying. If you’re boarding a plane and looking for reassurance, here’s what you need to know about the safest seats on an airplane.
Airports are often described as oversized train stations—you just need to arrive earlier for your “train.” However, flying feels very different, especially for the 26% of participants in a 2022 Statista survey who admitted to having a fear of flying. For some, turbulence is the trigger, while others feel anxious during takeoff and landing. If you’re among those with aviophobia, this information might help ease your concerns. Below are findings from two studies that statistically identify the safest seats on an airplane.
Aisle Seats at the Back, Away from the Engines
Which seats are the safest? Two authoritative analyses have tackled this question: one by Time Magazine and another by Popular Mechanics. Both concluded that seats towards the back of the airplane, especially in the rear quarter, are the safest. The distance from the engines—which can pose risks due to their machinery and fuel—also plays a role, as confirmed by an aviation expert.
The Time Magazine Study:
This analysis reviewed 17 airplane accidents with fatalities and survivors between 1985 and 2015. The mortality rates for different sections of the airplane were:
- Front Third: 38%
- Middle Third: 39%
- Rear Third: 32%
- Rear Third, Aisle Seats: 28%
- Middle Third, Aisle Seats: 44%
The Popular Mechanics Study:
This study examined 20 airplane accidents between 1971 and 2007. It calculated survival chances in specific areas of the airplane:
- Front Quarter: 49%
- Before the Wings: 56%
- Behind the Wings: 56%
- Rear Quarter: 69%
Conclusion:
Statistically, aisle seats at the back of the airplane offer the highest chances of survival. It’s advisable to choose a seat a bit away from the wings. For added safety, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration recommends adopting the “brace position” during emergencies.
