Decoding Airplane Seat Letters: A Guide to What They Represent
Airplane seat assignments combine a number and a letter: the number identifies the row, while the letter specifies the seat within that row. Airlines use this alphanumeric system to prevent confusion between row and seat, making it simpler for passengers to locate their seats compared to a purely numeric system.
By Avery Walker
The letters on airplane seats tell you where to find your seat in the row.
Airplane seat assignments typically consist of a number and a letter. The number indicates the row, while the letter designates the specific seat within that row. Airlines use this alphanumeric system to help passengers avoid mixing up row numbers and seat letters, making it easier to find the correct seat than if only numbers were used.
How Letters Are Ordered
The number of letters in a row depends on the aircraft's width. Generally, the seat farthest left is labeled "A," and each subsequent seat gets the next letter of the alphabet. On narrow planes with only two single-seat rows, you might see just "A" and "B," whereas wide-body jets used for transcontinental flights often have letters from "A" through "K." Many aircraft skip letters like "I," "S," and "O" because they can be mistaken for numbers.
Where to Find Seat Letters
Your boarding pass shows both your row number and seat letter. Once you reach the correct aisle, look for the seat order displayed under the overhead bins on either side. Although seat letters often go in descending order from the left side of the plane, always verify with the posted signs to ensure you're in the right seat. Seat numbers are frequently printed on the seats themselves as well, to reduce confusion.
Using Seating Charts
When booking a flight online, you might see a seating chart that lets you pick your preferred row and seat letter. Reviewing the chart during booking can help you identify which seats are most convenient and comfortable. Some websites (see Resources) also rate the comfort and amenities of different seats on various aircraft. If no seating chart is available online, you can contact the airline and request one.
Tips for Choosing Seat Letters
If you can select your seat letter but don't have a seating chart, you can still try to choose a preferred spot. For an aisle seat, avoid "A" seats, as they are typically next to the window on most airlines. On jets with three-seat rows, "C" and "D" seats are usually closest to the aisle. Inquire with the airline about the number of seats per row to help decide which letter to pick.
