Boeing 737-800 Best Seats Guide 2026
The Boeing 737-800 is the world's most-flown narrow-body jet, used by Alaska, American, Delta, Ryanair, and dozens of other carriers. Its 3-3 economy layout means every middle seat is a compromise — choosing the right seat is straightforward once you know the rules.
Seat Configuration
| Cabin | Layout | Pitch | Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| First/Business | 2-2 | 36–40 in | 20–21 in |
| Economy | 3-3 | 30–32 in | 17–18 in |
Best Seats on the Boeing 737-800
- Exit rows (over-wing emergency exits)
Typically 5–8 extra inches of legroom — the single biggest upgrade in economy class. On most carriers these are rows 16–17 or 19–20 depending on configuration. You must be willing to assist in an emergency. Note the row directly in front of the exit cannot recline into your knees. - Bulkhead row (first row of economy)
More legroom than most economy rows, no one reclining into your lap. Tray table is in the armrest and may be smaller. Great for passengers with mobility needs as it's close to the boarding door. - Window seats A & F in rows 1–15
Best views with no one climbing over you. On shorter flights (< 2 hours) choosing window over aisle is almost always worth it. Seats A & F also have a wall to lean against, making sleep easier. - Aisle seats C & D (rows 1–10)
Quick lavatory access and easy boarding/deplaning. The downside is passengers from window seats climbing past — choose C or D only if you plan to get up frequently.
Seats to Avoid on the Boeing 737-800
- Last 3 rows (and row before exit row)
Last rows have non-reclining seats against the rear galley/lavatory wall. Expect noise, smell, and the galley crew working nearby. The row directly in front of an exit row also cannot recline since the seat back would block exit-row access. - Middle seats B & E throughout the cabin
With no window view and no direct aisle access, middle seats offer the worst combination. If you must take a middle seat, choose one toward the front of the plane for faster deplaning. - Row directly in front of the rear galley
On the 737-800, the last few rows before the rear galley often have limited recline and are next to the lavatories. The constant traffic is particularly disruptive on longer flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seats on the Boeing 737-800?
Exit row seats offer the most legroom in economy (typically 5–8 extra inches). The bulkhead row (first row of economy class) is the next best option for legroom. Window seats in rows 1–15 are best if you want to sleep or enjoy views.
How many seats does the Boeing 737-800 have?
The 737-800 typically seats 160–189 passengers depending on configuration. US domestic carriers usually configure around 160–162 seats (first class + economy). High-density configurations can go up to 189 seats.
What is the seat configuration on the Boeing 737-800?
Economy is 3-3 across (ABC-DEF). Most US carriers have 12–16 first class seats in a 2-2 layout up front followed by 140–165 economy seats.
Does the Boeing 737-800 have Wi-Fi?
It depends on the airline and specific aircraft. Most US major carriers (American, Delta, Alaska) have retrofitted their 737-800 fleet with Wi-Fi. Southwest has Wi-Fi on all 737s. Ryanair and budget carriers typically do not.
Is seat 1A the best seat on the 737-800?
Seat 1A is in first class on most US carrier configurations, so yes — it has maximum legroom, window view, and is first off the plane. In economy, seat 1A may be the first row of economy (bulkhead), which also has good legroom but limits under-seat storage.
What rows are the exit rows on the 737-800?
Exit row locations vary by airline. American typically uses rows 16 and 20. Alaska uses rows 16 and 19. Delta varies. Check your specific seat map on SeatSmart to confirm exit row locations for your exact flight.
See also: Boeing 737-800 full specs & seat map · Interactive Seat Maps · Baggage Rules · Flight Lookup