United Airlines operates many flights using the Boeing 737-800, one of the most common and reliable aircraft in its fleet for domestic and short-haul international routes. With a 3-3 seat configuration in Economy Class and 2-2 in First Class, finding the right seat on the Boeing 737-800 United Airlines can make a huge difference in your flight comfort. This guide will break down the best seat options and highlight the areas to avoid.

Overview of the Boeing 737-800 United Airlines Seat Map

The Boeing 737-800 in United Airlines’ fleet typically seats around 166 passengers. The aircraft is divided into First Class, Economy Plus, and Economy sections, with a few rows offering more legroom and comfort than others. Here’s a breakdown of the cabin layout:

First Class: 16 seats in a 2-2 configuration.
Economy Plus: 48 seats with extra legroom, located in the front of the Economy Class section.
Economy Class: 102 seats in a standard 3-3 configuration.

Best Seats on United’s Boeing 737-800

1. First Class Seats (Rows 1-4)

For the ultimate comfort on United’s Boeing 737-800, the First Class seats are your top choice. With extra-wide seats, more legroom, and increased recline, passengers in First Class enjoy premium service, including complimentary meals, priority boarding, and access to United Clubs at select airports.

Pros: Extra-wide seats, personalized service, more recline.
Cons: Higher cost compared to Economy.

2. Economy Plus (Rows 7-14)

United’s Economy Plus section, located just behind First Class, offers up to 5 extra inches of legroom compared to standard Economy seats. This section is ideal for passengers who want more space without the price of First Class. If you’re looking for a bit more comfort on a budget, Economy Plus is the best option.

Pros: Extra legroom, located toward the front for quicker deplaning.
Cons: Higher cost than standard Economy, depending on availability.

3. Exit Row Seats (Rows 20 and 21)

Seats in Rows 20 and 21 are exit row seats, offering additional legroom for passengers who don’t mind the responsibility of sitting near the emergency exits. These seats are great for tall travelers or anyone wanting more space to stretch out.

Pros: Maximum legroom in Economy.
Cons: Limited or no recline in Row 20, responsibility for emergency door procedures.

4. Bulkhead Seats (Row 7)

Located at the front of Economy Plus, Row 7 offers extra legroom, as there are no seats directly in front of you. This is a great option for passengers who value space and want to be among the first to deplane after landing. However, because there is no under-seat storage, personal items will need to be stored in the overhead bins.

Pros: Extra legroom, quieter zone, first to deplane.
Cons: No under-seat storage.

5. Window Seats (Rows 8-12)

For those who prefer to enjoy scenic views or sleep during their flight, window seats in Economy Plus (especially Rows 8-12) offer a comfortable and quieter option. Window seats tend to be more private, and leaning against the cabin wall can make resting easier.

Pros: Excellent views, quieter experience.
Cons: Less convenient access to the aisle, especially on long flights.

Seats to Avoid on United’s Boeing 737-800

1. Rear Cabin Seats (Rows 36-38)

The last few rows in Economy Class, particularly Rows 36-38, are located near the lavatories and galley. These seats tend to experience more foot traffic, noise, and limited recline, making them less desirable for a comfortable flight.

Cons: More noise from lavatories and galleys, limited recline.

2. Middle Seats

As with most aircraft, middle seats are less desirable due to the lack of personal space and easy access to the aisle. On United’s Boeing 737-800, avoid the middle seats in rows toward the back for maximum comfort.

Cons: Limited space, harder to access the aisle.

3. Row 38 (Last Row)

The very last row of the Boeing 737-800 usually offers no recline and is positioned right next to the lavatories. These factors make it one of the least desirable rows, especially for long flights where you’ll want to lean back and rest.

Cons: No recline, constant foot traffic from the lavatory.

Tips for Choosing the Best Seat

Check Seat Maps: Tools like SeatGuru offer detailed maps of United’s Boeing 737-800, allowing you to see specific seat details before making your selection.
Book Early: If you want to snag a First Class, Economy Plus, or Exit Row seat, it’s best to book early, as these seats are in high demand and get reserved quickly.
Consider Your Preferences: Do you prioritize extra legroom, a window view, or quick access to the aisle? Make your selection based on what will make your flight more comfortable.

Conclusion

Flying on United Airlines’ Boeing 737-800 can be a pleasant experience if you choose your seat wisely. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, First Class, Economy Plus, and Exit Row seats offer the most comfort and space. Avoid the rear rows and middle seats for a more enjoyable flight, and be sure to book early to secure the best spot.