The Boeing 737 MAX 8 dominates short-haul fleets across Europe, operated by carriers like Ryanair (FR) and Scandinavian Airlines (SK). Ryanair utilizes a high-density 197-seat configuration optimized for low fares, featuring tight 28-29 inch pitch in standard rows. In contrast, SAS maintains a legacy carrier approach with approximately 166-176 seats and 30-32 inch pitch. This guide details seating strategies for both airlines, highlighting exit row advantages, pricing for extra legroom, and comfort differences in the 2026 operational landscape.
Aircraft Specifications
| Seating Capacity | 197 seats (Ryanair config), 166-176 seats (SAS config) |
|---|---|
| Range | 6,570 km (3,550 nm) |
| Engines | CFM International LEAP-1B |
| First Flight | 2016 |
| Cruise Speed | Mach 0.79 (839 km/h) |
| Cabin Width | 3.54 meters (11 ft 7 in) |
Typical Airlines
Ryanair, Scandinavian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines
Seat Guide by Cabin Class
Economy High-Density (Ryanair FR)
| Seat Pitch | 28-29 inches standard, 30-32 inches exit |
|---|---|
| Seat Width | 17 inches |
| Recline | Limited 2-3 inch recline |
| Power Outlets | None in standard economy |
Best seats: Exit rows 16-17 (free extra legroom if qualified), Row 1-2 (€15-25 extra legroom). Avoid row 30 near lavatories and galley noise.
Economy Standard (SAS SK)
| Seat Pitch | 30-31 inches |
|---|---|
| Seat Width | 17.5 inches |
| Recline | 3-4 inch recline |
| Power Outlets | USB ports at every seat |
Best seats: Rows 1-5 (SAS Plus/Extra legroom, €40-70 upgrade), Exit rows 12-13. Front cabin offers quieter ride and faster deplaning.
Comfort Rating
Comfort on the 737 MAX 8 is dictated by airline configuration. Ryanair’s 197-seat layout is utilitarian with 28-29 inch pitch, suitable for flights under 2 hours but restrictive for taller passengers. SAS configurations offer superior comfort with 30-31 inch pitch and better recline, justifying higher fares for journeys over 3 hours. Seat width remains constrained at 17 inches across both carriers due to the narrow-body fuselage. The MAX 8 cabin pressure is improved over older 737 NG models, reducing fatigue.
Noise & Smoothness
The CFM LEAP-1B engines on the 737 MAX 8 are significantly quieter than previous CFM56 engines, reducing cabin noise by approximately 2-4 decibels. However, rear seats behind the wing still experience noticeable engine hum during climb. SAS aircraft typically feature additional sound insulation compared to Ryanair’s cost-optimized interiors. The fly-by-wire feel is smooth, though turbulence is felt similarly to other narrow-body aircraft. Forward cabin seats remain the quietest zone throughout the flight profile.
Who Is This Aircraft Best For?
Best for
- Budget travelers on Ryanair flights under 2 hours where fare price outweighs comfort
- Passengers willing to pay €15-25 for Ryanair exit rows or front seats
- Business travelers on SAS preferring 30-inch pitch and USB charging availability
Avoid if
- You are taller than 6 feet (183cm) flying Ryanair standard economy without extra legroom
- You require universal power outlets for laptop work on Ryanair flights
- You have anxiety about engine noise and are assigned rear rows 25-30
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seat pitch on 737 MAX 8 aircraft?
Seat pitch varies dramatically by airline configuration on the Boeing 737 MAX 8. Ryanair operates a high-density 197-seat layout with 28-29 inches of standard pitch, which is tight for average adults. Exit rows offer 30-32 inches. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) maintains a legacy configuration with 30-31 inches in standard economy and up to 34 inches in business rows. Always verify your specific flight number because the same aircraft model can feel completely different depending on the carrier’s interior choice.
Which are the best seats on a 737 MAX 8?
On Ryanair, the best seats are exit rows 16 and 17 which offer free extra legroom if you qualify, or row 1 for €15-25 extra. Avoid row 30 near the lavatories. On SAS, rows 1-5 provide extra space and priority boarding. Exit rows 12-13 on SAS also offer significant legroom. Generally, seats forward of the wing experience less engine noise and turbulence. Booking early secures better seat selection before standard assignments fill up.
Are 737 MAX 8 seats comfortable for long flights?
For flights exceeding three hours, the Ryanair 197-seat configuration becomes uncomfortable due to limited recline and 28-inch pitch. SAS configurations with 30-inch pitch and reclining seats are manageable for four-hour journeys. The 737 MAX 8 cabin is narrower than wide-body aircraft, limiting shoulder space. If flying Ryanair on longer sectors, paying for extra legroom seats is highly recommended to prevent knee compression and discomfort during extended periods of sitting.
Does the 737 MAX 8 have power outlets?
Power outlet availability depends entirely on the airline’s interior specification. Ryanair 737 MAX 8 aircraft typically lack USB ports or power outlets in standard economy seats to reduce weight and maintenance costs. SAS 737 MAX 8 flights usually include USB charging ports at every seat and some have universal power outlets in premium rows. Passengers flying budget carriers should bring a fully charged power bank as backup since relying on aircraft power is not guaranteed.
Is the 737 MAX 8 noisier than other aircraft?
The 737 MAX 8 is quieter than the previous 737 NG generation thanks to CFM LEAP-1B engines with higher bypass ratios. However, rear cabin seats near the engines still experience significant noise during takeoff and climb. SAS aircraft often have better sound insulation compared to ultra-low-cost carriers. Seat selection impacts noise perception more than engine type, with forward cabin seats generally providing a quieter environment throughout the flight duration.