Do American Airlines Exit Row Seats Recline?

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American Airlines is a popular choice for domestic and international travelers alike. With its spacious cabins and comfortable seating, it’s no wonder why many passengers choose to fly with this airline. However, those who are looking to enjoy a little extra legroom may be wondering if American Airlines exit row seats are able to recline.

When it comes to comfort and convenience, exit row seats are a popular choice for many travelers. But with the added responsibility of being able to assist in an emergency, passengers may be wondering if they’ll have to sacrifice the ability to recline their seats. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether or not American Airlines exit row seats are able to recline, so you can make an informed decision on your next flight.

Do American Airlines Exit Row Seats Recline?

Do American Airlines Exit Row Seats Recline?

If you are a frequent flyer, you may have noticed that exit row seats on airplanes are highly coveted. These seats offer extra legroom and can make a long flight much more comfortable. However, if you are considering booking an exit row seat on American Airlines, you may be wondering whether or not these seats recline. Read on to find out.

The Basics of American Airlines Exit Row Seats

Exit row seats on American Airlines are located in the first few rows of the main cabin and are identified by a small “EXIT” sign above the seat. These seats are reserved for passengers who are willing and able to assist in the event of an emergency evacuation.

According to American Airlines, exit row seats offer between 36 and 37 inches of pitch, which is the distance between the back of the seat and the seat in front of it. This is significantly more legroom than standard economy seats, which typically offer around 31 inches of pitch.

Do American Airlines Exit Row Seats Recline?

The short answer is no, American Airlines exit row seats do not recline. This is because exit row seats are located next to emergency exits, and in order to ensure a quick and safe evacuation in the event of an emergency, passengers in these seats must be able to quickly exit their seats and move to the nearest exit.

While it may be disappointing to some passengers that exit row seats do not recline, it is important to remember that these seats offer other benefits, such as extra legroom, that can make a long flight much more comfortable.

Exit Row Seat Benefits

As mentioned, the primary benefit of booking an exit row seat on American Airlines is the extra legroom. This can be particularly important for tall passengers who may struggle to fit in standard economy seats.

In addition to extra legroom, exit row seats are often located near the front of the plane, which can make boarding and deplaning quicker and easier. Some exit row seats may also offer additional storage space, such as a small shelf or compartment located in front of the seat.

Exit Row Seats vs. Other Seating Options

When it comes to choosing a seat on a plane, there are a few different options to consider. Here’s how exit row seats compare to other seating options:

– Economy seats: Economy seats are the most basic seating option on most airlines and offer the least amount of legroom. While they are typically the cheapest option, they can be uncomfortable for long flights.

– Premium economy seats: Premium economy seats offer more legroom than standard economy seats, but less than exit row seats. They are often located in the front of the economy cabin and may offer additional amenities such as extra storage space or in-flight entertainment.

– Business/first class seats: Business and first class seats offer the most amenities, including fully reclining seats, larger screens for in-flight entertainment, and higher quality meals. However, these seats are significantly more expensive than economy or premium economy seats.

Conclusion

While American Airlines exit row seats do not recline, they do offer extra legroom and other benefits that can make a long flight much more comfortable. If you are looking for a little extra space on your next flight, consider booking an exit row seat. Just be prepared to assist in the event of an emergency evacuation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about American Airlines exit row seats and their features.

How much legroom do American Airlines exit row seats have?

American Airlines exit row seats have extra legroom compared to regular seats. However, the amount of legroom varies depending on the aircraft and the specific exit row seat. Be sure to check the seat map when selecting your seat to see the exact amount of legroom offered.

It’s important to note that exit row seats also have certain requirements, such as the ability to assist in an emergency, so be sure to review those before selecting an exit row seat.

Are American Airlines exit row seats more expensive?

Generally, American Airlines exit row seats are more expensive than regular seats due to the extra legroom and other features they offer. The exact price difference varies depending on the specific flight and seat availability.

If you’re interested in an exit row seat, it’s best to book early and check for any available discounts or promotions to save money on the extra cost.

Can anyone sit in an American Airlines exit row seat?

No, not everyone can sit in an American Airlines exit row seat. There are certain requirements that must be met in order to sit in an exit row seat, such as being at least 15 years old, able to speak and understand English, and being able to assist in an emergency.

If you do not meet these requirements, you will not be able to select an exit row seat. Additionally, flight attendants may ask you to move if they feel you are not able to meet the requirements during the flight.

What are the benefits of sitting in an American Airlines exit row seat?

The main benefit of sitting in an American Airlines exit row seat is the extra legroom they offer. This can make a big difference in terms of comfort, especially on longer flights.

In addition to the extra legroom, exit row seats may also offer other perks such as priority boarding and access to power outlets. However, these additional benefits may vary depending on the specific flight and aircraft.

Do American Airlines exit row seats recline?

Generally, American Airlines exit row seats do not recline. This is because reclining seats in the exit row could impede the ability to quickly evacuate the aircraft in case of an emergency.

If you’re looking for a seat that reclines, it’s best to select a regular seat instead of an exit row seat. However, keep in mind that regular seats may not offer as much legroom as exit row seats.

Pros and Cons of the Exit Row Seats – American Airlines DFW to HNL Main Cabin Extra Flying to Hawaii


In conclusion, American Airlines exit row seats do not recline. This policy is in place for the safety of passengers in the event of an emergency. It ensures that the exit row seats remain unobstructed and easily accessible in case of a need to evacuate the aircraft.

However, passengers can still enjoy a comfortable flight in these seats as they offer ample legroom and space to stretch out. Furthermore, the lack of recline in these seats encourages passengers to remain alert and attentive during the flight, which is especially important in the exit row.

Overall, American Airlines’ policy on exit row seats may seem inconvenient for some passengers who prefer to recline, but it ultimately prioritizes safety and ensures a comfortable and stress-free flight for all.

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