Long-haul travel in economy class can be a test of endurance, but a seasoned cabin crew member has shared insider advice to transform the experience. A Virgin Atlantic flight attendant, drawing on five years of experience in the skies, has revealed the specific airplane seats they would personally steer clear of and offered practical guidance for staying comfortable on extended journeys.
The Two Seats This Cabin Crew Expert Avoids
While many passengers scramble for seats with extra legroom, the flight attendant, in collaboration with medical travel insurance firm AllClear, advises against two particular locations. The insights, originally reported by the Express, highlight common comfort pitfalls that frequent flyers might overlook.
The first area to avoid is the first row by the wings. The crew member explains that this spot often becomes a congregation point for passengers waiting for the lavatory. Furthermore, it can be surprisingly noisy due to the presence of baby cradles typically positioned at the bulkhead wall in front.
Why Exit Rows and Rear Seats Come With Caveats
Emergency exit rows are a popular choice for their coveted extra legroom, but the attendant points out a significant drawback. "On some older aircraft, it can get quite chilly near the emergency exit rows," they warned. This makes them a poor choice for anyone sensitive to the cold, though bringing extra layers can mitigate the issue.
The rear of the aircraft is the second zone the professional would avoid. The primary complaint here is noise. "The aft of the plane can be a bit noisy because toilet flushes are quite loud," they stated. Additionally, on night flights, light can spill through the galley curtains, and the constant activity of the crew working nearby can be disruptive, even though the seats at the back do recline fully.
Pro Tips for Maximum In-Flight Comfort
For travellers determined to secure an exit row seat, the attendant recommends packing two essential items: extra warm clothing and a hot water bottle. Reassuringly, they added that the cabin crew are "more than happy to fill one up for you during the flight."
The overarching advice for a cosy journey is to proactively bring your own comforts. There is no rule against packing additional flight socks, blankets, or other snug items to combat the variable temperature on a plane. Taking personal responsibility for your comfort, rather than relying solely on airline provisions, is key to a more enjoyable long-haul experience in economy.
This expert guidance, confirmed on 2nd January 2026, provides a valuable checklist for any passenger facing a marathon flight. By avoiding the noisy zones near the wings and rear galley, preparing for draughty exit rows, and packing a few key home comforts, the ordeal of economy travel can be made significantly more tolerable.
