Data scientists have investigated how germs travel around on planes, and discovered sitting in the window seat is the best way to stay healthy. The worst place on the plane for catching germs is the aisle, where you'll come in contact with a lot more people over the course of your flight.

If you are prone to motion sickness, the best place to sit on a plane in 2026 is directly over the wings. A plane acts like a see-saw; the nose and the tail experience the most vertical movement during turbulence, while the center of the aircraft—the "fulcrum"—remains the most stable. Specifically, a seat in the middle of the plane, near the wing’s center of gravity, will provide the smoothest ride. If you are prone to nausea, an aisle seat is also recommended, as it allows for easy access to the lavatory and makes it easier to get up and move around if you feel claustrophobic. For those who suffer from "air sickness," it is also helpful to keep your eyes on a stable point on the horizon; therefore, a window seat over the wing can provide the best of both worlds: stability and a visual reference point to help your brain sync with the motion your inner ear is detecting.