AIR TO THE THRONE
You can get the best seats on a Ryanair flight every time with a handy plane map
Extra legroom is not always the best choice
IF you want to be the first to flee the plane, aim for the front five rows—think of it as the VIP section of the sky.
Here is everything you need to know about choosing seats when flying with Ryanair.
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Best seats for getting off the plane first
For those eager to disembark swiftly, targeting seats in the front five rows is your optimal strategy.
These seats are not only advantageous for quick exits but also offer convenient access to the restroom.
Alternatively, choosing an aisle seat facilitates easy movement for grabbing your belongings.
For those willing to take the risk you can also book seats on the back of the plane - but remember the back doors are not always used when disembarking.
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However, keep in mind that while the airline operates various types of aircraft, the Boeing 737-800 is the most commonly used model in its fleet.
Best seats for legroom
The budget airline isn't known for its roomy cabins, but it does have rows with extra legroom.
The seats in rows 1 A-C, 2 D-F, 16, and 17 on Ryanair flights offer extra legroom primarily because they are located near the emergency exits.
Although emergency exit rows are considered premium for their legroom and additional cost, some travelers may find their regulations inconvenient.
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Passengers with hand luggage must store it in overhead lockers, limiting easy access during the flight.
Furthermore, these seats are restricted to travellers aged 16 and above, making them impractical for families.
Additionally, occupants of these seats must be prepared and capable of assisting in the event of an emergency evacuation.
Ryanair also says passengers who reserve a seat in row 16 and 17 are free to check-in up to 60 days before take-off.
Best seats for taking pictures
For capturing stunning mid-air snapshots, aim for window seats located between rows 15 and 18 on Ryanair flights.
These seats provide optimal views for photographing the aircraft's wing against picturesque skies, ideal for creating memorable travel photos.
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The airline says: "They’re the Instagram photos that have always eluded you - the one with the perfect pinky-blue sky, fluffy clouds and otherworldly rays of sunlight, all framed by a cheeky wing peeking out from the corner.
"To capture these absolute beauties, book a window seat that’s located somewhere between rows 15 and 18 – it’s your time to shine."
Best seats to get food
To secure your in-flight snacks promptly, aim for seats in rows 1, 2, or 33 on Ryanair flights.
The airline says these seats will make sure you get served from the drinks trolley first, enhancing your chances of enjoying your refreshments without delay.
Additionally, pre-ordering meals through Ryanair's website or app guarantees priority service, making it a convenient option regardless of where you sit.
You might even be able to get a cheaper deal than you would in the air as Ryanair offers pre-order discounts.
Best seats to take a nap
For those looking to take a nap on the plane, 11A would be the best choice as it doesn't have a window, which ensures minimal disturbance from light and provides a quieter environment conducive to rest.
Ryanair says: "Not a lot of people realise that seat 11A has no window, meaning it’s the perfect seat if you’re planning to catch up on some zzzs during a morning flight."
Other airlines also have no-window seats but they usually change depending on the aircraft.
Ryanair seats to avoid
Napping aside, the worst seat on Ryanair's Boeing 737-800 aircraft is also 11A because of it's lack of window.
This has confused many passengers who assumed any seat by the cabin wall would guarantee a view.
According to flightguru.com seats 12A and F may have a misaligned or missing a window too.
Almost as unglamorous as 11A is row 1 and 33 due to their proximity to the bathrooms.
This may cause more noise and traffic, potentially disrupting your flight experience.
How much does a Ryanair seat cost?
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The cost of reserving a seat on Ryanair flights varies depending on whether you book during the initial flight purchase or later, as well as factors like specific routes, travel dates, seat cost, and applicable VAT charges.
Families with up to 4 children under 12 receive complimentary reserved seats.
Seats purchased during booking range from:
- Standard seats: £4.50 - £15
- Extra legroom: £11 - £33
- Front seats: £7 - £21
- Mandatory family seats: £6 - £10
These costs are only for an outward flight and passengers must purchase seats again for their return journey.
When selecting seats on Ryanair, consider these tips:
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- Book early
- Choose an aisle or front row seats
- Consider extra legroom seats
- Check seat map
- Avoid seats near the bathroom
And here we explain how you can cancel a Ryanair flight if something important comes up.
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