When it comes to booking flights, most travelers aim to snag the best seat possible—maybe one with extra legroom, easy aisle access, or the ultimate perk: a perfect window view. But seasoned flyers know there’s one seat you should avoid at all costs: seat 11A. At first glance, it might seem like any other standard window seat, but it harbors an unfortunate secret that could leave you staring at a blank wall for your entire flight.
Seat 11A on Ryanair’s Boeing 737-800 is infamous for one glaring reason: it doesn’t have a proper window. Instead of a large, clear window offering sweeping views of the sky, passengers in 11A are greeted with a tiny, almost useless circular opening that barely lets in any light, let alone provides a view. It’s the kind of seat that makes you question how it even qualifies as a “window seat.”
But why does this happen? According to aviation experts from Flight Radar 24, the lack of a window at seat 11A isn’t a random design flaw—it’s directly related to the plane’s air conditioning system. On most modern commercial jets, including the Boeing 737-800, cabin temperature and airflow are regulated by two main air conditioning “packs.” These packs distribute air throughout the cabin via a series of ducts cleverly built into the sidewalls of the aircraft.
Unfortunately for anyone assigned to 11A, one of these ducts runs right alongside this specific seat. This crucial placement leaves no room for a standard airplane window, meaning passengers in 11A are stuck next to a featureless wall—or, at best, a barely functional porthole-like window that offers little more than frustration.
What makes the situation even worse is the stark contrast with seat 11F, located on the opposite side of the same row. Passengers in 11F are treated to a perfectly positioned window that offers all the views and natural light you’d expect from a premium window seat. This lopsided arrangement feels like an extra slap in the face for anyone sitting in 11A, as their only glimpse of the sky might involve awkwardly craning their neck to peer across the aisle.
And while it’s true that the passengers in seats 12A and 12F don’t have perfect views either—thanks to windows that are oddly placed or partially obstructed—they’re still better off than the poor soul in 11A. At least they have something to look at, even if it’s not ideal.
So how can you avoid this dreaded seat? The best way is to plan ahead and do your homework before selecting your seat. Websites like AeroLOPA offer detailed cabin maps for most major airlines, including Ryanair. These diagrams provide valuable insights into seat layouts, including window placements, legroom measurements, and other useful tidbits. By spending a few minutes reviewing the seating chart before you book, you can avoid the windowless trap of 11A and secure a seat with a proper view.
And speaking of legroom, here’s a little-known tip for flying on the Boeing 737-800: the right-hand side of the plane—seats D, E, and F—actually offers slightly more legroom than the left side. This design quirk stems from the plane’s asymmetrical layout and might not be noticeable at first glance, but it’s a subtle advantage for savvy travelers.
Of course, not everyone gets the luxury of choosing their seat in advance. If you’re stuck with seat 11A due to last-minute booking or automatic seat assignments, the best thing you can do is manage your expectations. Bring a good book, load up your favorite movies, and remind yourself that not every window seat actually comes with a view.
For frequent flyers, understanding seat layouts and avoiding traps like 11A becomes second nature over time. It’s these little details—like window placements, duct locations, and seat dimensions—that can make the difference between a pleasant flight and one spent staring at a blank wall for hours.
So the next time you’re browsing flight seats, take this advice to heart: avoid seat 11A at all costs. Instead, opt for a seat on the right side of the plane if possible, and always double-check the seat map before finalizing your choice. Because while flying may not always be glamorous, a well-chosen seat can make your journey significantly more enjoyable. Safe travels, and may your window seat always come with an actual window!
