The Boeing 787 Dreamliner revolutionized long-haul travel with its composite fuselage, allowing higher cabin humidity and lower pressure altitude. Most airlines configure the 787-9 in a 3-3-3 economy layout with 31-32 inches of pitch. The distinctive electronic windows eliminate physical shades, using electrochromic technology to dim light. This guide analyzes seating on major operators including British Airways, United Airlines, and All Nippon Airways, highlighting exit row locations and power availability.
Aircraft Specifications
| Seating Capacity | 242 seats (787-8), 290 seats (787-9), 330 seats (787-10) |
|---|---|
| Range | 13,620 km (7,355 nm) for 787-9 |
| Engines | General Electric GEnx or Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 |
| First Flight | 2009 |
| Cruise Speed | Mach 0.85 (903 km/h) |
| Cabin Width | 5.49 meters (18 ft 1 in) |
Typical Airlines
British Airways, United Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, Virgin Atlantic
Seat Guide by Cabin Class
Economy Standard (British Airways 787-9)
| Seat Pitch | 31 inches |
|---|---|
| Seat Width | 17.5 inches |
| Recline | Standard recline |
| Power Outlets | USB and UK/Universal AC outlet |
Best seats: Rows 10-12 (bulkhead legroom), Exit rows 20-21 (extra space). Avoid rows 52-54 near lavatories. Seat selection fees €35-€90 depending on fare class.
Economy Plus (United Airlines 787-9)
| Seat Pitch | 34 inches |
|---|---|
| Seat Width | 17.3 inches |
| Recline | Standard recline |
| Power Outlets | USB-A and AC outlet at every seat |
Best seats: Economy Plus rows 15-25 offer 3 extra inches over standard. Exit row 38 provides maximum legroom. Upgrade cost €80-€160 return per sector.
Premium Economy (Virgin Atlantic 787-9)
| Seat Pitch | 38 inches |
|---|---|
| Seat Width | 18.5 inches |
| Recline | 7 inch recline with footrest |
| Power Outlets | USB and Universal AC |
Best seats: Rows 7-10. Bulkhead row 7 has extra legroom but fixed armrests. Upgrade from economy typically costs €500-€900 return depending on route.
Comfort Rating
The 787 cabin environment is superior to older aircraft like the 767 or 777-200ER due to composite materials maintaining 6,000 feet pressure altitude instead of 8,000 feet. Economy seats at 31-32 inches pitch are standard for long-haul but feel tight for passengers over 6 feet. The 3-3-3 configuration means two window seats and two aisle seats per row, maximizing revenue but reducing personal space compared to 2-4-2 layouts. Seat cushioning varies by airline, with ANA and JAL typically offering softer foam than European carriers.
Noise & Smoothness
The 787 is significantly quieter than previous generation aircraft, with cabin noise levels reduced by 60% compared to the 767. The chevron-shaped engine nacelles reduce jet noise during takeoff and landing. The composite fuselage flexes more than aluminum, dampening turbulence perception. Electronic windows eliminate the rattle of plastic shades. Engine noise is most noticeable in rows 30-40 over the wing, while the front cabin remains quieter during cruise.
Who Is This Aircraft Best For?
Best for
- Long-haul flights over 7 hours where cabin pressure benefits reduce fatigue
- Passengers sensitive to dehydration — humidity is 15% higher than aluminum aircraft
- Travelers who prefer window views without glare — electronic dimming offers 5 tint levels
Avoid if
- You prefer manual control over window shades — dimming takes 30 seconds to transition
- You are taller than 6 feet 2 inches flying economy without extra legroom purchase
- You require under-seat storage during takeoff — bulkhead rows lack this capacity
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the electronic windows work on the 787?
The Boeing 787 features electronic dimming windows instead of traditional plastic shades. Passengers control the tint using a button below each window, cycling through five levels of opacity. This technology reduces cabin heat and glare without blocking the view entirely. The dimming process takes a few seconds to transition between states. Flight crew can override settings during critical phases of flight.
What is the seat pitch on 787 economy class?
Economy seat pitch on the 787 typically ranges from 31 to 32 inches on major carriers like British Airways and United Airlines. Some ultra-long-haul configurations may reduce this to 30 inches. Premium Economy offers 38 to 42 inches of pitch. Always verify your specific flight number as aircraft substitutions occur frequently. Extra legroom seats can be purchased for €80-€160 return.
Which rows are the best seats on a 787?
The best seats depend on your priorities. Bulkhead rows offer legroom but often lack under-seat storage during takeoff. Exit rows provide extra space but may have restricted recline. Avoid the last three rows near the lavatories and galley due to noise and passenger traffic. Middle seats in 3-3-3 config are least desirable. Book early to secure exit rows before they are assigned.
Are there power outlets in 787 economy class?
Most 787 aircraft feature universal AC power outlets and USB ports at every seat in Economy and premium cabins. British Airways and United Airlines provide 110V outlets compatible with laptops. ANA includes USB-A and USB-C ports in newer refurbishments. Bring your own cables as airlines rarely provide them for free in Economy class. Check your specific seat map before flying.
Is the 787 cabin pressure better than other aircraft?
The 787 composite fuselage allows higher cabin humidity and lower pressure altitude equivalent to 6,000 feet instead of the standard 8,000 feet. This reduces passenger dehydration and fatigue on long-haul flights. The smoother airframe also reduces turbulence perception. These physiological benefits make the 787 preferable for flights exceeding 8 hours duration. Passengers report less headache and dryness upon arrival.