Is it safer to fly on a larger airplane rather than a slightly smaller one (Boeing 737-800 v. 737-300)?
My family and I are flying to Orlando from Cleveland, and I’m rather frightened since I haven’t been on a plane in 11 years, so I’m looking into all plane and seating options.
All commercial aircraft operating in the United States must adhere to the same principles for safety and security in operation. The safety features of a 737 are effectively the same as a CRJ or MD90 or any other passenger jet aircraft. The primary differences are the placement of emergency exits (although there are always such exits over the wings) and the seat configuration. If you’re nervous about flying, stick with an aisle seat near an emergency exit – if not the exit row itself.
Bear in mind, however, that once a flight is sold the aircraft can – and often does – change to accommodate the passenger list and projected traffic for that route. More times than I can count I’ve booked a trip on a 737 only to have the aircraft changed to a 777 upon the day of departure. When this happens, you might find your aisle seat is now a middle section middle seat – yuck! Check with the gate agent when you check in for your flight to reconfirm your seat and the type of aircraft. Don’t hesitate to ask for a change: if they can make it for you (especially if you’re a nervous flier), they generally will.
Good luck with your travels. I hope this is a positive experience for you and leads you back to flying with more regularity.
Tour American Airlines New Boeing 737-800
