Nationality, age and travel companion all play an important factor in where passengers prefer to sit on aircraft, a new study reveals.
The window seat is the most popular, with 59% of people preferring this seat, followed by the aisle at 38%, according to an easyJet poll of 10,000 passengers across Europe.
The right-hand side of the aircraft is more popular than the left, and rows 6 and 7 sell out fastest, the airline’s sales data shows.
Just 3% of people across Europe prefer the middle seat – usually after letting their partner take the window or aisle.
EasyJet sales information shows 7F as the favourite seat and 19C as the least popular.
Commentary from passengers revealed that more inquisitive or nervous travellers are likely to choose the window for the view and to observe what is happening en route. Younger travellers also prefer the window for photo opportunities of the scenery and wing mid-flight.
Travellers selecting the aisle seat value their space and the ability to move around during the flight. These seats are particularly favoured by older passengers, business travellers and people keen to disembark first.
The window seat is the most popular choice among the Portuguese (80%), Czechs (67%) and French (66%).
Dutch (48%), German (42%) and UK travellers (41%) are more likely to choose an aisle seat.
The airline’s group commercial director Peter Duffy said: “The window versus aisle debate is one of the most frequently overheard conversations while flying.
“Since introducing allocated seating in 2012, all easyJet passengers have been able to select their seat and by combining that data with feedback from thousands of travellers we’ve mapped out the most popular parts of the plane.
“It is clear that no matter where you live, having the ability to choose your seat is important and is something that our customers value.
“The window is overwhelmingly the most coveted position, but particularly popular amongst Portuguese passengers and people aged 25 or under.
“As passengers get older the aisle becomes increasingly popular and it is also a sought after seat for frequent flyers travelling on business or visiting their second home.”