Why Some Qantas ‘Window Seats’ Don’t Have a Window – The Inside Scoop

The Windowless Window Seat Experience of Qantas

Have you ever settled into what you thought was a cosy window seat on a plane, only to be met with the disappointment of a boring beige wall panel instead of a breathtaking view? You’re not alone. Not every “window seat” is created equal, and here’s why.

Almost every aircraft has them, those mysterious “window seats” that lack an actual window. The reasons behind this aviation quirk vary, but often it’s due to the need to allocate space for essential components like avionics cables and air-conditioning ducts. Let’s dive into the details to understand this phenomenon better.

The Boeing 737: A Case Study

The workhorse Boeing 737, flown by Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Regional Express, has its own unique reason for this quirk. There’s a specific point on the fuselage’s sidewall where Boeing installs ‘riser ducts.’ These ducts connect the air conditioning unit in the plane’s belly to the ceiling, where distribution ducts disperse air throughout the cabin. The size of these ducts makes it impossible to install a window.

On larger aircraft like the Boeing 787, the windowless window seat issue can also occur when different sections of the composite carbon-fiber fuselage are joined together.

Offset Windows

There are also instances where you might find seats with windows but not directly next to them. This happens when the airline’s seat layout doesn’t perfectly align with the aircraft’s window placement, causing the windows to be offset in front or behind the seat.

The Windowless Window Seat Experience

Not everyone considers the “windowless window seat” to be the short straw of flying. For some, leaning against that smooth wall can be a comfortable spot for a quick nap. However, if your heart is set on a view, you’d want to avoid these seats on various aircraft flown by Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Rex:

• Qantas Boeing 737: Seat 9A is missing a window.
• Qantas Boeing 787-9: Seats 44A, 44K, 57A, and 57K are all missing a window.
• Qantas Airbus A330-300: Seats 28A and 28K are missing a window.
• Virgin Australia Boeing 737: Seat 9A is missing a window.
• Regional Express Boeing 737: Seat 9A is missing a window.
• Regional Express Saab 340: Seats 2A and 2C are missing a window.

Not Just in Economy Class

Window seats without a view aren’t limited to economy class. Even business class isn’t spared from this quirk.
The front row of British Airways’ Airbus A380, comprising seats 50A and 50K, are adjacent to a blank wall.
The same goes for seats 16A and 16K on Singapore Airlines’ Boeing 787-10.

How to Avoid Windowless Window Seats

If you’re eager to secure a seat with a view, there are several tricks you can use to avoid windowless window seats. One quick and easy way is to visit the SeatGuru website, which provides seating charts for most airlines. These charts flag seats with disadvantages such as missing windows, limited recline, or proximity to lavatories. For your convenience, they also suggest the best seats in each cabin by color-coding them in green.

Additionally, if you’re unsure about the type of aircraft you’ll be flying on, you can check your ticket or use the FlightAware website to search for your specific flight number. FlightAware offers information about your flight’s current location, as well as upcoming and previous flights. The ‘Aircraft’ column lists the type of aircraft you can expect to be on.

In conclusion, not all “window seats” offer the same panoramic view of the sky, and understanding why can help you make more informed seating choices on your next flight.

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When it comes to premium air travel, Qantas stands as a true symbol of excellence. As Australia’s flag carrier, Qantas has not only redefined the art of flying but has also consistently set the benchmark for exceptional service and comfort.

Qantas Business Class represents a harmonious blend of Australian warmth, elegance, and innovation. From its historic legacy to its modern fleet, luxurious amenities, and commitment to sustainability, Qantas Business Class promises an unparalleled journey that encapsulates the spirit of Australia. As you step aboard a Qantas aircraft and experience the epitome of comfort and luxury, you embark on a voyage that transcends travel—it becomes a voyage of indulgence and discovery.

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