Most basic economy tickets allow passengers to select their seats only after checking in, and by this time most of the window and aisle seats are already taken. Consequently, customers will have to buy the more expensive cabin tickets to select their seats at the time of booking. Some airlines, such as Southwest, don't assign seats but it charges as much as $50 for the privilege of boarding early.
Nevertheless, while it may be impossible to completely rule out the middle seat, there are many ways to avoid it without having to pay extra. Firstly, booking early is the best way to make sure you do not end up sandwiched in the middle. It will also net you cheaper ticket prices.
On average, most tickets are at their lowest 57 days before departure. While purchasing tickets more than three weeks in advance can expect to see savings of as much as 30%. As a result, these savings will allow you to splurge on the fees for aisle or window seats.
Bear in mind, also, that the plane used for the flight will make a big difference. In the short to medium range flights, the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 are configured with six-abrest seating or six seats per row with two sections of three seats divided by a single aisle.
This results in two middle seats per row. So, instead of the 737 or A320, look for flights operated by Bombardier C-Series, Sukhoi SuperJet 100, McDonnell Douglas MD80 series, MD90 and Boeing 717-200 jets. These aircraft feature five-abreast seating in a 3-2 configuration, meaning there is only one middle seat per row.
Another option is to take flights operated by regional carriers under names such as Delta Connection, United Express, and American Eagle. These flights are generally operated using regional jets or turboprop airliners. Another alternative is to opt for the regional aircraft which are generally set up in a 2-2 configuration. They tend to be a lot smaller but there are no middle seats. In this case, be on the lookout for aircraft like Bombardier CRJ, the Q400 turboprop as well as the Embraer ERJ.
The Embraer E170 and E190 seats anywhere between 70 to 100 passengers and the E-jet operates both as a regional airliner and with mainline carriers such as American, Air Canada, Polish LOT and JetBlue. The E-Jet, like smaller regional jets, is set up in a 2-2 configuration with no middle seats.
You can also use this method for long-haul international flights. These flights are operated by wide-body, twin-aisle airliners such as the Boeing 777,787 and the Airbus A350 or the larger Boeing 747 jumbos and the Airbus A380 superjumbos. Larger planes like these are set up with nine or even 10-abreast seating. Usually 3-3-3 or 3-4-3 with either three or four middle seats per sow in coach.
As most airlines of the Boeing 767 are pushing the 20-year mark, most are on the way out and will be replaced with newer models. So, with the 767 moving out, look for flights that are operated by the twin-engine Airbus A330 and its discontinued four-engined sibling, the A340. These airliners usually feature an eight-abreast seating in a 2-4-2 configuration. Consequently, the A330/A340 generally fly with only two middle seats per row in coach.
6 Sites That All Kindle Users Should Get to Know Well
If you have a Kindle, here are 6 fantastic sites that you should definitely familiarize yourself with!
This Guide Will Answer All Your Basic Wine Questions
This infograph will teach you all about the different wine styles, wine glasses, and wine tasting.
Enrich Your Soil with This Easy-To-Make Compost
Enrich your soil and provide your plants with all the nutrient that they need by making this compost.
Are Your Breathing Problems Caused by Asthma?
It's never easy to know whether your breathing problems are due to asthma or some other respiratory condition. However, there are a few different ways to tell.
Say Goodbye to Cigarettes with These 10 Great Tips!
Quitting smoking is difficult, but not impossible. These great 10 tips will hopefully help you kick this unhealthy habit.
What Can You Do With Gmail? Find Out Here!
If you want to set up a Gmail account but don't know how to or even if you have one, then you've come to the right place!
10 Beautiful Landscapes that Make Austria a Traveler's Gem
10 incredible photos that will make you want to book your next flight to Austria.
Take a Scenic Ride Through Europe’s Highest Alpine Railway
Embark on a journey all the way to Jungfrau mountain in the Swiss Alps, 3.454 meters (8.051 ft) above sea level, on a train!
I Watched this Video and Now I’m Planning a Trip to Ghent
Sweet trappist beer, golden Belgian fries and this gorgeous skyline- what else could you ask for?
Take in China's Spectacular Oriental Beauty - from Above
Get ready to fly high over China's most amazing landscapes.
These Legendary Sites Are Teeming with Mythical Stories
These real-world places have a rich connection to mythology.
15 Common Geography Facts That Are Actually Wrong!
Here are 15 common errors about the world that often leave geography teachers in tears...
Winter Hikers, Gather Round for the Best Tip of the Season
Here's how advanced snow hikers layer clothing in the winter.
Take a Virtual Walking Tour Through the Streets of Venice
Venice is a truly beautiful city. Walk through its streets in this breathtaking video.
Wedding Outfits Around the World Are Anything But Boring
Here is a list of 15 of the most grandiose and exotic traditional wedding outfits you will ever see
Batumi, the Most Charming City On the Black Sea Coast
Read everything you need to know about Batumi and its alluring tourist destinations.
One Look at These Photos & You'll Fall in Love With Seoul!
Take a close look at these photos and you'll find it very hard not to fall in love with this beautiful Korean city.
February Is a Gloomy Month, So Why Not Take a Vacation?
February isn't generally the most pleasant of months, so why not hop on a plane and go somewhere fun? These are the 10 best places to be in February.
You've Never Seen Switzerland Quite Like This...
Come fly with us above Switzerland, one of the most beautiful countries in all the world.
Enjoy 21 Stunning Sunrises from Around the World
Sunrises have something mystical about them. They captivate us with their beauty and enamor us with hope. Here are 21 beautiful sunrises around the world.
10 Stunning Abandoned Islands and Their Eerie Histories
These islands used to be someone’s home, but today, they have been reclaimed by nature. Ready to see these islands and learn their histories?
This Archival Footage of Japan from 1913-1915 Is Amazing
Take a look at this incredibly rare archival footage of Tokyo, Japan, that gives us a glimpse of life there in the early 20th century.
12 Stunning Spots That’ll Change the Way You See Poland
12 beautiful and eye popping places in Poland that anyone and everyone should visit, from picturesque little towns with huge and ancient castles to sky-breaking mountains with snowy peaks - there is so much beauty to enjoy.
This Amazing Salad is Made from Tea Leaves!
Lahpet Thoke is a Burmese dish that’s made from tea leaves! What’s more, it’s super delicious!
The 10 Oldest Gardens in the World One Can Still Visit...
This article showcases the 10 oldest gardens founded by humans centuries ago that still exist today and are well-preserved.
Two Weeks of Spanish Magic: The Recommended Itinerary
If you've always wanted to see all that Spain has to offer, this itinerary will make for a true full of opportunities to make good memories!
These Rooftop Bars Around the World Have Views to Die For
Rooftop bars are great spots for some rest and relaxation, but the 20 you're about to see offer some of the best views (and drinks) in the world.
Want to Get Paid to Move to Italy or Spain? It's Possible!
Want to get paid to move to Italy, Spain, or Ireland? Yes, it’s possible!
Discover the Ancient Italian City Where Time Stood Still
The city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcano in 79 C.E., but much of it remains preserved, giving us a glimpse to the Roman times.
Shocking Facts About New York’s Flatiron Building
New York City's Flatiron building is one of the world’s most iconic structures. However, it faces an uncertain future.
Belize Is An Unspoiled Caribbean Paradise Waiting For You
It's quite often that Belize isn't thought of by people when they think of the Caribbean, but it actually should be. Here are the country's top 10 destinations.
18 Stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites to See in Italy
Apart from well-known attractions like the Colosseum, Pompeii, Rome, Venice, and Florence, there are 18 impressive locations that showcase a captivating blend of natural landscapes and ancient architectural wonders.
Few Countries Compare to the Natural Beauty Chile Offers
Chile is absolutely stunning and this video proves it.
Arabian Nights: The Magic of Saudi Arabia
Come with us to fly above and within the magic of Saudi Arabia.
Why Do Passports Have Different Colors?
Most people don't suspect that the color of their passport actually has quite a lot of intention behind it. Here's what common flag colors really mean...
12 Towns in Germany That Bring Old Magic to Life
Germany has a reputation for being a cold country, which may be true about its big cities, but not to these 12 small old towns surrounding them ...
Fall in the Great Smoky Mountains is So Darn Beautiful...
This season is especially beautiful in the Smoky Mountains National Park...
16 Surprisingly Strange Structures From Around the World
There are a lot of beautiful buildings in the world. Today, we look at some of the most unusual ones.
14 Maps That Challenge Our Perceptions of the World
Discover the world of the most unusual and fascinating maps here.
When You Go to Japan, It's Like You're on Another Planet!
Japan is a country that'll surprise you so much, you'd be forgiven for thinking that you've arrived in another country. Take a look!
These Pictures Will Make You Desperately Crave the ‘70s
Rediscover the charm of the '70s with these delightful pictures.
Around the World in 10 Unique New Year's Eve Traditions
Discover the different ways New Year’s Eve is celebrated around the world.
Welcome to the Alluring Ellora Caves, India
Welcome to the biggest cave temple in the world! These caves are more than 1000 years old and are amazing to see.
The Incredible Sights and Sites of Salamanca, Spain!
Looking at the most interesting and beautiful parts of Salamanca, Spain
Take a Romantic Stroll Through the French Gardens of Love...
The famous scenic Châteu de Villandry in central France is home to stunning ornamental gardens with some of the most romantic views and a beautiful love story behind it to boot.
12 Exciting Hollywood Inspired Holiday Destinations
A list of 12 destinations that were used as movie sets and can now be visited
What's the Dirtiest Place on the Plane?
If you were asked what the dirtiest place on the plane was, what would you answer? The next study is going to surprise you and change your mind about dirty places.