Boeing 737-8AS Ryanair: Your Seat Guide

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the blog! Today, we're diving deep into something super practical for all you frequent flyers out there, especially if you're planning a trip with everyone's favorite budget airline, Ryanair. We're talking about the Boeing 737-8AS Ryanair seating plan. It's a game-changer, guys, knowing where you're going to sit before you even get to the airport. No more last-minute scrambling or ending up in a middle seat when you were hoping for a window, right? This article is all about breaking down the seating on Ryanair's workhorse, the 737-8AS, so you can make informed choices and hopefully snag the best spot for your flight. We'll cover everything from the pros and cons of different sections of the plane to what you can expect in terms of legroom and amenities. So, buckle up, grab a virtual coffee, and let's get this seat sorted!

Understanding the Boeing 737-8AS

So, what exactly is this Boeing 737-8AS we keep hearing about? Essentially, it's a specific variant of the Boeing 737 Next Generation (NG) series, and Ryanair has a massive fleet of them. The '8AS' is just an internal Boeing customer code, so for all intents and purposes, it's a 737-800. Ryanair's configuration for this aircraft typically seats 189 passengers in an all-economy layout. This means no business class or first class to worry about; it's pretty much a no-frills experience designed to pack in as many people as possible while keeping costs down. This configuration is super common across many airlines, but Ryanair is known for its efficiency and tight seating arrangements. Understanding this basic layout is your first step to navigating the seating plan. It's a single-aisle jet, so you've got rows of seats running down either side of the plane. The challenge, and what we're here to help you with, is figuring out which of those 189 seats is going to be your perfect perch for the duration of your flight. We'll be looking at different seat types, like standard seats, extra legroom seats, and even the coveted 'no recline' seats (more on that later!). Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how the seats are laid out and what that means for your travel comfort.

Decoding the Seat Numbers

Alright, let's talk seat numbers. On most aircraft, including the Ryanair Boeing 737-8AS, seats are arranged in rows, typically numbered from front to back. You'll usually see rows numbered from 1A all the way to, let's say, 33F, depending on the specific configuration. The letters denote the position of the seat within that row. Typically, 'A' and 'B' seats are on the left side of the plane (when facing forward), 'C' and 'D' are in the middle section (often the dreaded middle seats), and 'E' and 'F' are on the right side. So, a 10A would be the window seat in row 10 on the left, and a 10F would be the window seat in row 10 on the right. The 'D' and 'E' seats are your classic middle seats. Now, Ryanair’s 737-8AS has a slightly different numbering convention in the very front. You'll often find seats designated as '1A', '1B', '1C', '1D', '1E', and '1F' right behind the cockpit. These are generally considered the 'best' seats because they offer the most legroom. We'll get into why they offer more legroom in a bit, but for now, just know that the numbering system gives you a direct clue about your location. The key takeaway here is to pay attention to both the row number and the letter. Aisle seats (like 'A' or 'F' depending on the side, or 'C' and 'E' if they are designated aisle seats) offer ease of movement, while window seats ('A' or 'F') give you a view and a place to lean your head. Middle seats ('D' or 'C' depending on the row configuration) are generally the least desirable. Understanding this simple letter-and-number code is crucial for selecting your preferred seat when you're booking or managing your Ryanair flight.

Front of the Plane: Rows 1-5

Let's kick things off at the pointy end of the plane, shall we? When you're looking at the Boeing 737-8AS Ryanair seating plan, the rows right at the front, typically Rows 1 through 5, often come with some distinct advantages and disadvantages. Row 1, especially seats 1A, 1B, and 1C, are generally considered the bulkhead rows. Now, 'bulkhead' means there's no seat in front of you, just a solid wall. This can be a huge plus for legroom, especially for taller folks or anyone who just hates feeling cramped. You can stretch out a bit more. However, there's a catch, guys. Seats in Row 1 typically do not have under-seat storage in front of them because there's no seat. Also, the armrests are usually fixed, which can make the seat feel a bit narrower. And here's a big one for families: you usually can't stow carry-on luggage in front of you in bulkhead rows during takeoff and landing. You might have to put it in the overhead bins. For Rows 2-5, these are generally standard economy seats, but because they're at the front, they tend to be the first ones to disembark. This is super handy if you're in a rush to catch a connecting flight or just want to get off the plane quickly. On the flip side, the front of the plane can sometimes be a bit noisier due to proximity to the galley and lavatories, although on the 737-8AS, the main galleys and lavatories are usually towards the middle and rear. A significant advantage of the front seats is that they are generally the first to be selected, and Ryanair often charges a premium for these, especially Row 1. If you're looking for the quickest exit and don't mind potentially paying a bit extra or dealing with the fixed armrests, these front rows can be a good bet. Just remember to weigh the legroom benefits against the potential restrictions for luggage and the fixed armrests. For many, the slightly increased space in Row 1 makes it worth it, but it's a trade-off you should be aware of.

Mid-Cabin: Rows 6-15

Moving into the mid-cabin section of the Boeing 737-8AS Ryanair seating plan, we're looking at Rows 6 through 15. This is generally considered the sweet spot for many passengers. Why? Well, you're far enough from the front galley and lavatories to avoid most of the foot traffic and noise, but you're also not stuck at the very back of the plane. These seats offer a pretty standard economy experience. You'll have a typical amount of legroom, which, let's be honest, on a budget airline like Ryanair, isn't going to be massive, but it's usually adequate for most flight durations. A significant advantage of these mid-cabin seats is that they generally have the standard reclining feature. Unlike some of the very rear seats on certain configurations, you should be able to lean your seat back a bit to get more comfortable. This is a big win for longer flights! You'll also have under-seat storage available in front of you, and you can usually place your carry-on bag there during takeoff and landing, provided it fits. When considering specific seats within this range, aisle seats (often 'C' and 'E' in the middle block, or 'A' and 'F' on the outer edges, depending on the exact layout of the row) will give you freedom to stretch your legs into the aisle when needed and make bathroom breaks easier. Window seats ('A' and 'F') are great for views and for those who like to sleep against the window. The middle seats ('D' and 'C' in the middle block) are, as usual, the least sought-after. Generally, Rows 7-12 are often cited as being in the 'golden zone' – not too close to the engines (which can be noisy) and not too far from the exits. However, on the 737-8AS, engine noise is generally well-managed across the cabin. So, if you're looking for a balance of comfort, convenience, and standard amenities without the premium price tag of the front rows, the mid-cabin section is probably where you'll want to aim. Just remember to check the specific row if you have preferences for aisle vs. window.

Rear of the Plane: Rows 16-33

Now, let's head to the back of the bus, the Rows 16 through 33 on the Boeing 737-8AS Ryanair seating plan. This is where things get a little bit different, and you need to be aware of a key feature that Ryanair implements. The seats in the very rear of the aircraft, particularly from around Row 31 onwards (but it can vary slightly), are often designated as 'no recline' seats. This is a significant detail, guys! It means that the seatback is fixed in an upright position. While this might sound like a nightmare for comfort, it actually ensures that the passenger in front of you can't recline into your space, effectively guaranteeing you a consistent amount of legroom and space to work or relax. This can be a blessing for some, especially if you find that people reclining their seats into your lap is your biggest travel pet peeve. However, for others who rely on reclining their seat to get comfortable, especially on longer flights, this can be a major drawback. Beyond the 'no recline' feature, the rear of the plane is often closer to the rear lavatories and the galley. This can mean more foot traffic and potentially more noise from crew activity and passengers waiting for the restroom. On the plus side, the seats towards the middle of this section (around Rows 16-30) will typically offer the standard recline. If you're looking for a window or aisle seat at the back, you'll still get the same benefits as elsewhere (window views, easy exit). The rear of the plane is often less expensive to book than the front, which is a definite plus for budget-conscious travelers. So, if you prioritize a guaranteed fixed amount of space and don't mind the potential for a bit more commotion or the lack of recline in the very last rows, the rear section can be a perfectly fine choice, especially if you're getting a good deal on the seat price. Just be absolutely sure you understand whether your chosen seat reclines or not before you book!

Extra Legroom Seats (XL Seats)

Ryanair is well-known for offering 'XL Seats' on their Boeing 737-8AS aircraft, and these are usually located at the very front of the plane. If you're tall, have a lot of carry-on luggage you need accessible, or just really value your personal space, these extra legroom seats are definitely worth considering. Typically, these are found in Row 1 (1A, 1B, 1C) and sometimes a few other rows at the front like Rows 2 and 3. The primary benefit, as the name suggests, is significantly more legroom. This means you can stretch out your legs fully, which is a godsend on any flight, but especially on longer ones. The 'no recline' feature sometimes applies to these seats as well, as the seat structure might be different to accommodate the extra space. However, the advantage of the fixed seatback is that the person in front of you can't recline into your extended legroom space. It's a bit of a trade-off: you get more legroom but potentially lose the ability to recline your own seat. This is a common configuration on many airlines offering premium economy or extra legroom options. Another factor to consider is the price. These XL seats come with a higher price tag, as you'd expect. Ryanair charges an additional fee for them, which can vary depending on the route and demand. So, while they offer a superior comfort level, you need to weigh the cost against the benefit for your specific journey. If you're on a very short hop, maybe it's not worth it. But for a longer flight, or if you know you'll be miserable without ample legroom, the extra cost can translate into a much more pleasant travel experience. Always check the specific seat map when booking to identify which rows are designated as XL seats and what the exact benefits and restrictions are for that particular flight. They are usually clearly marked on the booking interface.

Window, Middle, and Aisle Seats

Let's break down the classic trio: window, middle, and aisle seats on the Boeing 737-8AS. Understanding your preference here is key to a comfortable flight. Window seats (typically A and F) are great for scenery lovers and those who like to sleep against a surface. You get an uninterrupted view of the world below, and you won't be disturbed by people needing to get to the aisle. The downside? You're trapped in unless you ask people to move, and if you need to use the lavatory, you'll have to climb over someone. Middle seats (typically D and C) are, let's face it, the least popular. You're sandwiched between two people, have no view, and you're the one most likely to be disturbed by your neighbors. The only real advantage is that you have both neighbors to potentially lean on if you need to sleep, but that's hardly a compelling reason! Aisle seats (often C, E, or depending on the configuration, A or F on the outer edges) are fantastic for freedom of movement. You can get up to stretch your legs, go to the lavatory, or just avoid feeling confined without disturbing anyone. This is a big plus for longer flights or if you have a smaller bladder. The trade-off is that you might get bumped by passing trolleys or other passengers in the aisle, and you don't have a window to look out of or lean against. For families or groups traveling together, it's often recommended to try and book adjacent aisle and window seats, or aisle and middle, to ensure you can sit together and minimize disruption. When making your choice on the Ryanair 737-8AS seating plan, consider the length of your flight, your personal comfort needs, and whether you prioritize ease of movement, a view, or simply avoiding the dreaded middle seat. Each has its pros and cons, and the best seat is really the one that suits your travel style.

Tips for Choosing Your Seat

Alright guys, let's wrap this up with some actionable tips for choosing your seat on the Ryanair Boeing 737-8AS. First off, always check the seat map when you book. Don't just pick randomly or assume you know where the best spots are. Ryanair's website and app will show you a visual representation of the aircraft layout. Use this to your advantage! Prioritize your needs: Are you tall? Aim for the XL seats in Row 1 or other designated extra legroom seats, even if it costs a bit more. Hate being woken up? Consider the 'no recline' seats at the very back, but be aware of the potential for noise. Need to get up frequently? An aisle seat is your best friend. Want a view? Grab a window. Consider the flight duration: For short hops, the exact seat might not matter as much. But for longer flights, investing in extra legroom or a preferred seat type can make a huge difference to your overall experience. Be aware of the fees: Ryanair is famous for charging for everything, and seat selection is no exception. Standard seats might be free at check-in (but you get what's left), or you can pay to select your preferred seat during booking or manage your booking. XL seats and seats with extra legroom come at a premium. Look at reviews: Many travel forums and blogs have user reviews about specific seats or sections on the 737-800. A quick search can often reveal hidden gems or seats to avoid. Don't forget the bulkhead and exit rows: While Row 1 offers great legroom, remember the fixed armrests and luggage restrictions. Exit rows (if available on this specific Ryanair config, which is less common on their 737-800s in the standard layout) can offer more legroom but might have their own restrictions or be located near lavatories. Finally, book in advance: The best seats, especially the XL ones and those with good legroom, get snapped up quickly. If seat selection is important to you, make your choice as early as possible, ideally right after booking your flight. By following these tips, you can navigate the Ryanair Boeing 737-8AS seating plan like a pro and ensure your next flight is as comfortable as possible. Happy travels!