About Airplane Seats

Airline seats are chairs on an airliner which passengers use for the duration of their flight. Airline seats are typically arranged in rows running across the plane's fuselage. They vary in color and material depending on the owning airline. Airline seats are designed for both comfort and safety.

History

Older airplane seats were armchairs that stood loosely in the cabin. This, of course, was a safety hazard, and now airline seats are attached to the floor. Airlines wanted the flexibility to move airline seats as needed, and are now attached to rails under the fuselage.
In early aviation history the colors of airline seats were soft earth tones to aid in calming passengers. In the 70's airlines began to switch to red and orange, and currently a more business-like blue and gray. Some airlines are still using the soft earth tones, but they are mainly non-US airlines.

Significance

Airline seats serve two purposes: safety and passenger comfort. Airline seats are designed to be lightweight, strong and fire-resistant. A typical design is an aluminum frame with urethane foam attached, Kevlar over the top and leather over that. Leather seats are more commonly used, not just for the luxurious look, but to protect against spills and for easy cleanup.

Features

Airline seats can have several advanced amenities. Power ports may be added to seats to attach small appliances, headphones, or even miniature televisions for passengers to enjoy. Adjustable headrests are provided mainly on longer flight aircraft; these aid in the comfort levels of passengers. Adjustable lumbar support is usually found on long flight aircraft and typically in the business section of planes. Built-in massage capabilities do exist on some flights in the business section.

Misconceptions

Many fliers like "bulkhead seats," seats directly behind physical barriers (such as walls) that separate parts of a plane. Since there are no seats in front of you there is often some extra legroom.
Not all "bulkhead" rows are the same. Some planes have the first bulkhead row cramped and can be very uncomfortable.

Considerations

Join a frequent flier program. The higher ranking you have, the better chance you have of getting the seat you want. Buy your tickets early. The sooner you buy your tickets for a flight, the more openings that are available. Upgrade your seat. Some airlines have upgraded seat options available in business, economy and even coach. Know the seat you want by looking at a layout for the type of plane you are flying in.