Which airplane seat should you avoid for your health?

The risk of getting sick while flying is higher than in typical situations, as passengers in airports and planes encounter numerous viruses and bacteria. Scientists have studied which airplane seats pose the greatest health risk. A simple seat selection can significantly reduce the likelihood of infection.

Flying involves more than just a change in time zones. The combination of a densely packed cabin, recycled air, and surfaces covered with the fingerprints of thousands of passengers makes an airplane one of the more likely places to pick up a contagious illness.

The middle aisle seat is the riskiest

Research shows that passengers sitting next to the middle aisle seat come into contact with other people far more frequently than those in window or even middle seats. The reason is simple: passengers and flight attendants are constantly moving along the middle aisle, meaning more contact and a greater likelihood that someone will cough, sneeze, or touch your armrest.

Additionally, a passenger in the middle aisle typically has two neighbors, one on each side, while a passenger in the window seat has direct contact with only one fellow passenger. By sitting in the window seat, you can also more easily avoid frequent movement toward the aisle, which means fewer handshakes, contact with support surfaces, and other surfaces.

What else to consider

Besides seat selection, other factors play a role. Airplane ventilation systems filter air regularly, but the spread of droplets is most intense in close contact, roughly within a radius of two rows. So if someone in your neighboring row coughs, the risk is higher regardless of whether you're sitting by the window or aisle.

Washing your hands before eating and after touching high-touch surfaces, armrests, screens, and tables also helps significantly reduce the risk of infection. Experts also recommend avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth during the flight.

In summary, the simplest tip for protecting your health on a flight is to choose a window seat and remain as stationary as possible; move down the aisle only when necessary.