Seats are an important part of all airplanes. While small airplanes like a Cessna 172 have about a half-dozen seats, larger airplanes have up to 300 seats — sometimes even more. Here are five fun facts about airplane seats.
#1) Defines Narrow-Body and Wide-Body Airplanes
The layout of an airplane’s seats will determine whether it’s a narrow-body or wide-body airplane. Narrow-body airplanes have a single aisle. Passengers, as well as crewmembers, can walk down this aisle. Wide-body airplanes, on the other hand, have two aisles. Wide-body airplanes live up to their namesake by featuring a wider fuselage than their narrow-body counterparts, which allows them to accommodate more seats and passengers.
#2) Made of Lightweight Materials
Most airplane seats are made of lightweight materials. Common materials used in their construction include aluminum, magnesium, and composites. The seat cushions are often made of foam padding covered with fabric or leather upholstery. Lightweight materials such as these reduce the total weight of the airplane and, thus, increase fuel efficiency.
#3) Space Is Measured in Pitch
The space provided by airplane seats is typically measured in pitch. Pitch is the distance between the same point on two consecutive airplane seats. It’s typically measured from the back of one seat to the back of the seat in front of it. Seat pitch can vary significantly depending on the airline and aircraft type. With that said, higher-class seats — business class or first class — generally have a higher seat pitch than lower-class seats. A high pitch means that passengers will have more space.
#4) Colors Have Evolved
The colors in which airplane seats are made have evolved over the year. Originally, airplane seats are limited to earthy colors. Earthy colors like brown and gray were believed to have a calming effect on passengers. In the 1970s and 80s, though, airplane seats transitioned to brighter colors. Today, most airplane seats are available in a variety of colors, with soft colors being the most common.
#5) Regulations May Require Window Shades to Be Open
If you have a seat near a window, you may be required to open the window shades when the airplane is taking off and landing. Window shades are visors that cover the window. You can open them to allow sunlight to beam into the airplane, or you can close them to achieve a darker environment. During takeoffs and landings, however, regulations often require window shades to be open. With the window shades open, visibility will increase, which can enhance safety.
