Attention window seat lovers on flights: these seats actually "have no windows"

▲ Many people prefer window seats on planes to enjoy the scenery from high above, but quite a few have reported that after boarding, they found their window seat had no window at all. (Illustration / Photo by Peng Huaiyu)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Many people prefer window seats on planes to enjoy the scenery from high above, but quite a few have reported that after boarding, they found their window seat had no window at all? According toforeign mediareports, sometimes airlines choose to squeeze in extra rows of seats, giving up the perfect alignment between seats and windows. It can also happen if the seat is located directly beneath the aircraft's air conditioning vent.

If you enjoy looking out the window during a flight,airlines recommend avoiding seat 9A on the Boeing 737-800, seat 39A on the Airbus 330-200, and seats 21A and 21K on the Boeing 777-300ER.Passengers in these seats will find that there are windows in front, behind, and even in the adjacent window seats, but theirs simply isn’t there.

▲ According to foreign media reports, seat 9A on the Boeing 737-800, seat 39A on the Airbus 330-200, and seats 21A and 21K on the Boeing 777-300ER have no windows. (Illustration / Photo by Peng Huaiyu)

According to Virgin Australia Airlines, so-called “window seats without windows” are due to the aircraft’s air conditioning system. The airline explained that, for example, on a 737, these ducts are located above the top vents on the side of the fuselage, and normally pass through the position of 9A to deliver air throughout the cabin. This is not unique to the 737, as similar setups can also be found on Boeing 777s, 747s, 757s, and 737 MAX models.

Most Airbus models also have similar windowless seats, so “window seats without windows” aren’t limited to any particular aircraft type or airline. In fact, this is a fairly common design feature in commercial airplanes, airlines say.

▲ “Window seats without windows” aren’t limited to any particular aircraft type or airline, but are a common design feature in commercial airplanes. (Illustration / Photo by Peng Huaiyu)

So, if you find yourself sitting in a “window seat without a window,” just know that your sacrifice helps keep all passengers cool and comfortable — and that might make you feel a little better.