Airbus A320 Aircraft Overview and Seat Selection Guide

The Airbus A320 is one of the most commonly used single-aisle aircraft in the world, especially on regional routes across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a frequent traveler, understanding the layout and seat options on this aircraft can greatly enhance your overall flying experience.

1. What is the Airbus A320?

The Airbus A320 is a narrow-body aircraft developed by Airbus, first introduced in 1988. It is widely adopted by full-service and low-cost carriers for regional and short-haul routes. The A320 family also includes variants such as the A318, A319, A321, and the upgraded A320neo.

Key Specifications

• Aircraft Type: Single-aisle (narrow-body)
  
  
• Range: Approximately 4,800 to 6,300 km (depending on model)
  
  
• Typical Capacity: 140 to 180 passengers
  
  
• Seat Configuration: 3-3 per row
  
  

Common Airlines Operating A320 in Asia

• Taiwan: Starlux Airlines (A320neo), Tigerair Taiwan, Mandarin Airlines
  
  
• Regional: AirAsia, Scoot, VietJet Air, HK Express, Cathay Group (HK)
  
  

Popular Routes

• Taipei / Kaohsiung / Taichung to Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau
  
  

2. Cabin Layout and Seating Experience

Image source: Peach Aciation

Economy Class

• Configuration: Single aisle, 3-3 layout
  
  
• Seat Pitch: Approximately 28–31 inches
  
  
• Seat Width: Around 17–18 inches
  
  
• Features: Adjustable backrest, fold-down tray table, reading light; USB ports and IFE vary by airline
  
  
• Suitable for flights under 5 hours
  
  

Business Class (available on select airlines)

• Configuration: 2-2 or 3-3 with blocked middle seat
  
  
• Offers wider seats, priority services, and enhanced onboard comfort
  
  
• More commonly available on A320neo aircraft (e.g., Starlux Airlines)
  
  

3. Seat Selection Tips and Recommendations

Best Seats for Comfort

• Emergency Exit Rows (around Rows 12–14)
  
  
• • Offers the most generous legroom
    
    
  • Ideal for tall passengers
    
    
  • Note: Seatbacks may not recline and eligibility restrictions apply (age, physical ability, no infants)
    
    
• Bulkhead Seats (usually Row 11)
  
  
• • Extra space in front with no seat ahead
    
    
  • Suitable for passengers with infants (some airlines offer bassinets)
    
    
  • Note: Tray tables are stored in the armrest, slightly reducing seat width
    
    

Seats to Avoid

• Rear Rows (e.g., Row 28 and beyond)
  
  
• • Close to lavatories and galley; more foot traffic, noise, and possible odor
    
    
  • Limited recline in the last few rows
    
    
• Overwing Seats (Rows 18–21)
  
  
• • View may be obstructed by the wing
    
    
  • Engine noise can be louder
    
    
• Seats Behind Partitions
  
  
• • Limited legroom due to fixed panels
    
    
  • Not ideal for tall passengers
    
    

4. Convenience and Boarding Efficiency

• Front Cabin (Rows 11–15)
  
  
• • Allows faster disembarkation, saving time for transit or immigration clearance
    
    
• Aisle Seats
  
  
• • Better for passengers who need to move around or access the lavatory easily
    
    
• Avoid Middle Seats
  
  
• • Tighter space, shared armrests, less personal comfort
    
    

5. Best Window Views

• Ideal window seats: 17A / 17F
  
  
• • Located just ahead of the wing for unobstructed views
    
    
  • Great for capturing sky views, sunrise, or aerial city shots
    
    
• Which side to sit on?
  
  
• • Left side (A seats): Better city views during landings in cities like Hong Kong or Tokyo
    
    
  • Right side (F seats): Recommended on mountain routes (e.g., Western China, Taiwan east coast) for snow-capped peaks and landscapes
    
    

6. Airline Seat Configuration Comparison (Sample Table)

7. Practical Seat Selection Tips

• Check the aircraft type and seat map via the airline’s app or website 24 hours before departure
  
  
• For families with children, Rows 11–14 are close to crew stations for quicker assistance
  
  
• On early morning flights heading east, avoid right-side (F) seats to reduce sun glare
  
  
• Avoid selecting seats near lavatories or galley areas to minimize noise and disturbance
  
  

8. Current Airbus A320 Direct Flight Routes

Conclusion

Though the Airbus A320 is a compact, narrow-body aircraft, smart seat selection can make a big difference—especially on regional flights. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a business flyer on a tight schedule, or traveling with family, these insights help you fly more comfortably, arrive more efficiently, and enjoy the journey from takeoff to landing.

Seat Selection Guide for Popular Airbus and Boeing Aircraft

• Airbus A380 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
• Airbus A320 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
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• Boeing 737 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
• Boeing 747-400 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
• Boeing 787-9 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
• Airbus A320 NEO Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
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• Airbus A359 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
• Airbus A321 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
• Airbus A330-300 Seat Map & Aircraft Overview
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