What Is Bulkhead in First Class?

In airplanes, bulkheads are the physical barriers that separate the cabin compartments. Bulkheads can be walls, but on some planes curtains are used instead. In first class, the bulkhead seats are the first row closest to the front of the section.

Considerations

The design of bulkhead seats does not follow any uniform standard. The advantages and disadvantages of bulkhead seats will vary by air carrier and the type of aircraft being flown.

Reclining

A bulkhead seat in first class means you are in front, and you will not have to worry about reclining seats or disturbing anyone with excessive leg or feet movement.

Legroom

Bulkhead seats also offer the advantage of having increased space to fully extend your legs or even rest your feet against the bulkhead partition.

Disembarkation

Depending on the type of aircraft, first-class bulkhead seats are more convenient for getting off the plane first.

Storage Space

You may find that carry-on space is limited without another row of seats in front of you for stowage space underneath.

References

• Bulkheads Explained: Pros and Cons