The Boeing 737-900ER (Extended Range) is the largest member of the Boeing 737 family and is often used for longer domestic and international routes. With more seats and extended range compared to earlier models, choosing the best seat on the Boeing 737-900ER can significantly impact your flight experience. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best seats on the Boeing 737-900ER, helping you find the perfect spot for maximum comfort and convenience.

Overview of the Boeing 737-900ER Seat Map

The Boeing 737-900ER typically features a 3-3 seat configuration in Economy Class, with First Class or Premium Economy seats at the front in a 2-2 configuration. Seating capacity can vary slightly depending on the airline, but most Boeing 737-900ER aircraft accommodate between 180 and 220 passengers.

First Class or Premium Economy: Offers more spacious seating and better service for travelers willing to pay for extra comfort.
Economy Plus or Preferred Seating: Some airlines offer Economy Plus or preferred seats with additional legroom in the front of the cabin.
Standard Economy: The remainder of the aircraft is standard Economy Class, with varying degrees of legroom and recline.

Best Seats on Boeing 737-900ER

1. First Class Seats (Rows 1-4)

For travelers who prioritize comfort, First Class seats are always the top choice. With wider seats, more legroom, and better recline, First Class on the Boeing 737-900ER offers premium service, including priority boarding, complimentary meals, and more personal space.

Pros: Extra-wide seats, superior recline, priority service.
Cons: Higher cost compared to Economy or Premium Economy.

2. Exit Row Seats (Rows 20 and 21)

Exit row seats are located near the middle of the aircraft and provide significantly more legroom than standard Economy seats. This makes these rows ideal for taller passengers or those who want to stretch out. Additionally, sitting near the exit allows for quicker boarding and deplaning in case of an emergency.

Pros: Maximum legroom in Economy Class, easier access to the aisle.
Cons: Limited or no recline in Row 20 due to the exit doors, and some responsibility in case of emergencies.

3. Economy Plus Seats (Rows 7-15)

Airlines often designate Rows 7-15 as Economy Plus or preferred seating on the Boeing 737-900ER, offering 4-6 extra inches of legroom compared to standard Economy seats. These seats are perfect for passengers looking for more space without paying for First Class.

Pros: Extra legroom, located closer to the front for quicker deplaning.
Cons: Higher price than standard Economy, availability can be limited on busy flights.

4. Bulkhead Seats (Row 7)

Bulkhead seats, found in Row 7, are at the front of Economy Plus. These seats provide extra space in front since there’s no seat ahead of you, but they come with a tradeoff: no under-seat storage for personal items. These will need to be stored in the overhead bins.

Pros: Additional legroom, quiet section of the plane.
Cons: No under-seat storage, close to the galley.

5. Window Seats (Rows 8-14)

If you enjoy looking out at the scenery or want a more private experience, window seats in the Economy Plus section (Rows 8-14) are a good choice. These seats offer great views, and the cabin wall provides a surface to lean on if you want to rest.

Pros: Scenic views, more privacy.
Cons: Less convenient access to the aisle.

Seats to Avoid on Boeing 737-900ER

1. Rear Cabin Seats (Rows 36-38)

The rear section of the Boeing 737-900ER, particularly Rows 36-38, is near the lavatories and galleys. This area tends to be noisier due to foot traffic and proximity to the restrooms. Additionally, seats in the back rows often have limited recline, making them less comfortable for long flights.

Cons: Frequent noise and foot traffic, limited recline, last to deplane.

2. Middle Seats

Middle seats are typically less desirable due to the lack of personal space. On longer flights, sitting between two passengers can feel cramped and uncomfortable, especially when you’re in standard Economy with less legroom.

Cons: Limited space, no easy access to the aisle or window.

3. Row 38 (Back Row)

The last row of the Boeing 737-900ER is typically the least preferred due to no recline and its position near the lavatories. Passengers sitting in Row 38 will likely experience noise and more foot traffic from people using the restrooms.

Cons: No recline, more traffic, proximity to lavatories.

Tips for Choosing the Best Seat

Book Early: The best seats, like those in First Class, Economy Plus, or exit rows, are often the first to go. Booking early increases your chances of securing one of these prime spots.
Check Seat Maps: Tools like SeatGuru allow you to view the specific seat map for your airline’s Boeing 737-900ER configuration. These maps provide detailed information on seat pitch, width, and recline.
Consider Your Needs: If you’re traveling on a long-haul flight, prioritize legroom and recline. For short domestic flights, quick deplaning might be more important, so choose a seat closer to the front.

Conclusion

Flying on the Boeing 737-900ER can be a more enjoyable experience if you select the right seat. Whether you’re looking for extra legroom in Economy Plus, the comfort of First Class, or a scenic view from the window, this guide provides the insight you need to choose the best seat for your trip. Remember to book early, use seat maps, and prioritize your preferences to ensure a comfortable flight.