Boeing 737-800

Technical Specifications

• Total seats: 162 typical configuration
• Range: 5,765 km / 3,582 mi
• Cruise speed: 842 km/h
• Wingspan: 36 m
• Length: 40 m
• Engines: 2× CFM56-7B

Cabin Features

• Economy seat pitch: 30–31 in (76–79 cm)
• In-flight Wi-Fi: Available on most configurations
• Power outlets: AC/USB available
• Lie-flat beds: Not typically equipped

Seat Selection Overview

The Boeing 737-800 is the world's most-flown narrow-body jet, used by Alaska, American, Delta, Ryanair, and dozens of other carriers. Its 3-3 economy layout means every middle seat is a compromise — choosing the right seat is straightforward once you know the rules.

Best Seats on the 737-800

• Exit rows (over-wing emergency exits): Typically 5–8 extra inches of legroom — the single biggest upgrade in economy class. On most carriers these are rows 16–17 or 19–20 depending on configuration. You must be willing to assist in an emergency. Note the row directly in front of the exit cannot recline into your knees.
• Bulkhead row (first row of economy): More legroom than most economy rows, no one reclining into your lap. Tray table is in the armrest and may be smaller. Great for passengers with mobility needs as it's close to the boarding door.
• Window seats A & F in rows 1–15: Best views with no one climbing over you. On shorter flights (< 2 hours) choosing window over aisle is almost always worth it. Seats A & F also have a wall to lean against, making sleep easier.
• Aisle seats C & D (rows 1–10): Quick lavatory access and easy boarding/deplaning. The downside is passengers from window seats climbing past — choose C or D only if you plan to get up frequently.

Seats to Avoid on the 737-800

• Last 3 rows (and row before exit row): Last rows have non-reclining seats against the rear galley/lavatory wall. Expect noise, smell, and the galley crew working nearby. The row directly in front of an exit row also cannot recline since the seat back would block exit-row access.
• Middle seats B & E throughout the cabin: With no window view and no direct aisle access, middle seats offer the worst combination. If you must take a middle seat, choose one toward the front of the plane for faster deplaning.
• Row directly in front of the rear galley: On the 737-800, the last few rows before the rear galley often have limited recline and are next to the lavatories. The constant traffic is particularly disruptive on longer flights.

Pro Tips

• The 737-800 has no Premium Economy — the jump from economy to first class is significant in pitch and width. Worth checking upgrade prices at check-in.
• Southwest operates a different 737-800 variant with no assigned seats — sit toward the front by boarding early (A-List status or early check-in).
• Window shades on the 737-800 are manual — claim your window seat early to control the light on a daytime flight.
• Use AirlineSeatGuide.com's seat map to check the exact configuration your airline uses — American's 737-800 has 160 seats while Delta's has 162. Exit row locations shift accordingly.
• On overnight flights: window seat is almost always better — you get a wall to rest against and control over the window shade.

Frequently Asked Questions