Although the rear section is at risk of detaching from the aircraft in a catastrophic crash, it is more likely to remain intact than the front and center sections, which are still attached to the engines.
“The back part often breaks off,” says Adjekum, meaning the last part of the aircraft behind the wings. “A lot of that kinetic energy goes to the front of the plane, leaving the back intact.”
Meet in the middle
The middle section of the plane has a lot to offer during a bumpy flight. The point where the wings meet in the middle provides a more stable base that serves as the plane’s center of gravity, making it less likely to bounce around in turbulence.
“Many of the vibration forces caused by turbulence are better in the middle section than in the rear section,” says Adjekum. The plane essentially functions like a boom when it hits bumps in the air. “So when you ride the turbulence, it’s like a seesaw where you’re standing on the extended part of the saw.”
Although the middle is better suited to turbulence, it is not necessarily ideal for a catastrophic situation. Finally, the middle area is usually where the fuel cells are located, so in the event of a fire you will be directly above the gas tank.
What the middle has to offer is easier access to the emergency exits in the middle of the aircraft. The closer you are to the exits, the better your chances of survival after an accident.
Aisle, middle, window
OK, so it’s probably safest to move to the back of the plane, but still near an emergency exit. You have your turn, but which seat do you choose now?
Here too, there are advantages and disadvantages for each option. Sitting in the aisle puts you closer to the exit you need to go to in an emergency, but it also puts you more vulnerable to being hit by falling luggage or loose debris flying down the aisle. Sitting by the window allows you to see what’s going on outside, giving you a situational advantage, but you’re stuck against the wall and have to wait for the other people in your line to push out first. Sitting in the middle gives you a few human shields on either side to absorb potential blows, but the middle seat is uncomfortable and an unpopular first choice.
Exit strategy
If you’re afraid of flying, all that back and forth trying to find the perfect seat will likely only lead to more inner turmoil. Honestly, it’s probably not worth the worry.
Airplane accidents are ridiculously rare. According to the International Air Transport Association, which represents the global aviation industry, 37.7 million flights experienced a fatal accident in 2023. However, when accidents occur, each one is a little different and affects the aircraft in different ways. Ultimately, Adjekum says, your chances of surviving an in-flight emergency depend less on where you’re sitting and more on how well trained your flight crew is—and how closely you listen to their instructions. (That’s why it’s so important for everyone to follow these safety instructions.)
“Every time you’re on a plane, the first thing you have to do is be aware of the situation,” Adjekum says. “Listen to cabin crew instructions because they know their job and will keep you safe no matter where you sit.”