Originally Posted by
bluedemon211
I have some pretty basic questions about an upcoming flight and could use some help from the experts. Sorry if these are too fundamental, but I'm a pretty basic guy. I have a choice to make on an ULH flight next week. Seats 1A and 9L are the only odd row seats available. I normally try for 9A (which will soon likely come to an end) because I like the relative quiet of the mini cabin. I sleep with ear plugs and a mask, so light and moderate noise isn't an issue. Here are my questions: - Is there excessive noise/vibration from the flushing toilet or lav door in front of 9L? I'm 6'2" so I normality have my feet against the foot wall, which is why I ask about vibration. - With there being no overhead space above 1&2 DF, is there much risk of not having space available over 1A if I board late (coming from a tight enough connection that I might not be at the gate when pre-boarding occurs). I travel with a conforming roll aboard and briefcase. - Is the galley noise or "closet banging" any better or worse in row 1 vs row 9? I know these are pretty basic and YMMV type questions, but for a 17 hour flight I'd like to make the right choice. Thanks!
Personally I’ve not found the lav noises to be much of an issue at 9L. Others have mentioned that it can have heard/felt it. IME the engine noise has been more bothersome, but noise cancelling headphones and the full sized footwell and shelf were more of a positive factor.
The overhead bin can be factor for 1A/1L but if you do end up getting on board later, there is usually plenty of space further down. And since you usually board through 2L you are not going to be fighting upstream to get your bag when deplaning. Also, the FAs might be able to get you some space in their closets.
Otherwise I find the galley/closet light/noise issues to be a tossup between the two seats. I would say that due to the curvature, 1A does feel slightly tighter.
Other factors that I would consider in picking 1A vs 9L would be views on departure/arrival as well as direction of sun during the course of your flight.
Last but not least, keep checking. There is always the chance of last minute cancellations or misconnects that free up seats as you get closer to departure.