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Air India crash sparks seat safety debate
No airplane seat can guarantee your safety, but data suggests you might be a bit better off in the rear third of the plane—especially in a middle seat. Rear seats have a 32% fatality rate, and those middle spots at the back are lowest at 28%.
What the data says
If you ever get to pick your seat, aiming for a rear middle one could slightly boost your odds in an emergency. Still, experts stress it's not just about where you sit—paying attention to safety briefings and knowing where exits are can make a real difference if something goes wrong.
Seat choice alone won't save you
Next time you fly, consider both your seat choice and how closely you follow safety instructions. Being aware and prepared matters just as much as picking the "right" spot.