Boeing 747-400 Aircraft Overview and Seat Selection Guid

Whatflytime August 15, 2025

● 1. Boeing 747-400 Overview ● 2. Air China Boeing 747-400 Cabin and Seating Configuration ● 3. Seat Selection Guide Based on Air China’s Configuration ● 4. Window Seat Selection by Route Direction ● 5. Current Boeing 747-400 (B744) Direct Flight Routes ● 6. Summary ● Seat Selection Guide for Popular Airbus and Boeing Aircraft

The Boeing 747-400 is one of the most iconic long-haul, wide-body, four-engine aircraft in aviation history. With its long range and double-deck design, it was widely used by major airlines for intercontinental routes since its first flight in 1989. Although most carriers have retired this model, Air China continues to operate a limited number of Boeing 747-400s on high-demand international routes.

This guide provides a complete overview of the aircraft’s features and economy cabin layout, along with seat selection tips based on Air China’s current configuration.

1. Boeing 747-400 Overview

Manufacturer: Boeing
First Flight: 1989
Type: Four-engine, double-deck wide-body aircraft
Range: Approximately 13,450 kilometers
Primary Use: Long-haul international routes (e.g., Asia to Europe, North America, Middle East)
Total Seats (Air China configuration): 344
Economy Class Seats: 292
Cabin Classes: Business Class, Premium Economy, Economy Class

2. Air China Boeing 747-400 Cabin and Seating Configuration

Image Source: Lufthansa

Upper Deck: Reserved for business class on some aircraft, arranged in a 2-2 layout
Main Deck: Business class, premium economy (Rows 31–37), and standard economy (Rows 39–60)

Economy Class Seat Layout

Each row is arranged in a 3-4-3 configuration

Left side: A B C
Center: D E F H
Right side: J K L
Window seats: A and L
Lavatories are located at the front, center, and rear of the economy cabin
Rear lavatories include a changing table and are wheelchair accessible

3. Seat Selection Guide Based on Air China’s Configuration

Recommended Seats

Row 31 to 37 (Premium Economy)
Extra legroom with a more spacious layout. While the seats are identical to those in standard economy, the space is better suited for long flights. Note that Rows 34, 35, 36, and 38 have no windows.
Row 48
Located just behind an emergency exit row, this row offers unobstructed space and has windows. It is one of the most desirable seats in standard economy.
Row 57
The row transitions from three seats on each side to two seats, making the window seats more private and comfortable, especially for travelers flying in pairs.
Row 60
Although located at the rear of the cabin, this row offers window views, reclinable seats, and proximity to the crew area. It tends to be quieter and less trafficked.

Recommended window seat rows with aligned views: 31 (double window), 32, 41, 44, 46, 48, 51, 54, 56. Actual alignment may vary slightly by aircraft, so it's best to consult the seat map when booking

Seats to Avoid

Row 39
This is the first row of standard economy. It lacks a window and may have partial obstructions, making it less comfortable for viewing or resting.
Row 47
Located just in front of the center lavatories. It is close to multiple bathrooms, which can lead to noise and frequent foot traffic.
Rows 34, 35, 36, 38
These are windowless rows and should be avoided if you value a view or natural light.
Rows 31 to 44
These rows are positioned over the wings. While some are in the premium economy section, the view is obstructed by the wing structure, and the engine noise is significantly louder. Not ideal for light sleepers.

4. Window Seat Selection by Route Direction

For sunrise or sunset views, choose your window side based on the direction of travel:

Morning flights
North to South: left side (A seats)
South to North: right side (L seats)
Evening flights
North to South: right side (L seats)
South to North: left side (A seats)

To avoid wing obstruction and enjoy clear views, select window seats from Row 48 onward.

5. Current Boeing 747-400 (B744) Direct Flight Routes

Flight Number	Aircraft Type	Departure Airport	Arrival Airport
CX5	Boeing 747-400	Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE / RCTP)	Hong Kong International Airport (HKG / VHHH)
SQ7860	Boeing 747-400	Singapore Changi Airport (SIN / WSSS)	Hong Kong International Airport (HKG / VHHH)
KJ283	Boeing 747-400	San Francisco International Airport (SFO / KSFO)	Incheon International Airport (ICN / RKSI)
LH493	Boeing 747-400	Vancouver International Airport (YVR / CYVR)	Frankfurt International Airport (FRA / EDDF)
LH780	Boeing 747-400	Frankfurt International Airport (FRA / EDDF)	Singapore Changi Airport (SIN / WSSS)

6. Summary

The Boeing 747-400 remains a legendary aircraft in the world of long-haul travel. With its spacious cabin, double-deck structure, and iconic design, it offers a unique flying experience, especially for aviation enthusiasts. Air China’s continued use of this model provides passengers with a rare opportunity to fly aboard the “Queen of the Skies.”

By understanding the seat layout, wing placement, and view orientation, travelers can make informed choices and enhance their journey comfort even in economy class.