When booking a flight, choosing the right seat can make or break your travel experience. Whether you prefer the aisle seat for easy access to the restroom or the window seat for those stunning sky-high views, every traveler has their preference. However, there’s one seat you should avoid at all costs, especially if you’re flying on a Boeing 737-800—Seat 11A. On the surface, it seems like a standard window seat, but the reality is far from what you’d expect. Instead of a panoramic sky view, you’ll be left staring at a blank wall—or worse, a tiny, nearly useless circular window. So, what makes this seat such a letdown? Let’s break it down.

According to FlightRadar24 experts, the odd design flaw in Seat 11A is a result of the plane’s air conditioning system. Modern commercial jets like the Boeing 737-800 rely on two air conditioning “packs” to regulate cabin airflow and maintain comfortable temperatures for passengers. The air processed by these packs travels through ducts built into the sidewalls of the plane and then circulates into the cabin. Unfortunately for passengers sitting in Seat 11A, one of these ducts is positioned right where a window would normally be. As a result, instead of the usual rectangular airplane window, there’s either no window at all or just a small, circular peephole offering almost no visibility.

To add insult to injury, if you glance across the aisle at Seat 11F, you’ll notice that passengers on the opposite side have a perfectly positioned window with a clear view of the sky. It’s one of those cruel ironies of air travel—same row, vastly different experiences. Your only chance at a “view” from Seat 11A is to awkwardly crane your neck and squint down the row, hoping to catch a glimpse through someone else’s window.

The problem doesn’t stop there. Seats 12A and 12F, directly behind row 11, also suffer from poorly aligned windows. While they’re not as bad as 11A, they still leave much to be desired in terms of an unobstructed view. At least passengers in those seats can see something beyond a blank wall, unlike the unfortunate souls stuck in Seat 11A.

So, how can you avoid this seat and ensure a better flying experience? The good news is that there are tools available to help you make an informed choice. Websites like AeroLOPA offer detailed seating charts for most commercial aircraft, including Ryanair’s Boeing 737-800 layout. These diagrams not only show seat placements but also highlight window alignment, legroom space, and potential obstructions. By cross-referencing your seat number with these resources, you can dodge the dreaded Seat 11A and secure a spot with a better view.

Interestingly, there’s another quirk in the design of the Boeing 737-800 that savvy travelers can take advantage of. If you book a seat on the right-hand side of the plane—specifically seats D, E, or F—you’ll often find slightly more legroom. The plane’s design is asymmetrical, and this small difference can make a significant impact on comfort, especially during longer flights. It’s not something airlines typically advertise, but experienced travelers know it’s worth keeping in mind.

Now, you might be wondering: if Seat 11A is so notoriously bad, why don’t airlines simply block it off or notify passengers during booking? The answer is straightforward—every seat on an airplane represents potential revenue. Airlines, especially budget carriers like Ryanair, operate on thin profit margins. They’re unlikely to leave a seat unsold just because it offers a subpar experience. While some airlines do note obstructed-view seats during the booking process, many do not. This leaves it up to passengers to do their homework and avoid being stuck with an undesirable seat.

But what happens if you’ve already been assigned Seat 11A and there’s no option to switch? First, manage your expectations—there won’t be much of a view, so bring plenty of entertainment to distract yourself. Load up a tablet with movies, download a good book, or bring along some puzzles. Second, politely ask a flight attendant if there are any available window seats after boarding is complete. Sometimes, empty seats become available, and the crew is usually happy to accommodate a polite request.

At the end of the day, Seat 11A serves as a reminder that not all window seats are created equal. In a world where every inch of airplane space is maximized for efficiency and profit, design quirks like these are inevitable. However, with a little planning and awareness, you can avoid this unfortunate spot altogether.

So, the next time you’re booking a flight, take a moment to consult a seating chart and double-check your seat assignment. Whether it’s for the legroom, the view, or just overall comfort, being informed about your seat choice can make a world of difference in your flying experience. And remember the golden rule of air travel: Avoid Seat 11A whenever possible! Safe travels, and may your next flight come with perfect views and smooth skies.