BULKHEAD SEATING Meaning and
Definition
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Bulkhead seating refers to the specific seating arrangement found on airplanes and other transportation vehicles where the seats are located near a physical partition or barrier between different sections. This partition is usually a solid wall or panel that separates various areas of the vehicle such as cabins, compartments, or cargo areas.
In aviation, bulkhead seating typically refers to seats that are located directly behind a physical barrier, often found at the front of the economy class section, or at the front or rear of a cabin section. These seats are often considered desirable by passengers due to certain advantages they offer.
One advantage of bulkhead seating is that it usually provides more legroom compared to other seating areas. This extra legroom is made possible because there is no seat in front of the passenger, but instead, the bulkhead wall. Additionally, bulkhead seats generally offer greater convenience and accessibility, as they are closer to the aisle and restrooms.
However, it is important to note that bulkhead seating may also have its drawbacks. Due to its proximity to the wall, there may be limited or no under-seat storage space, as well as restrictions on the use of certain personal items during takeoff and landing. Furthermore, bulkhead seats may lack the ability to recline fully, reducing the overall comfort during longer flights.
Overall, bulkhead seating refers to the specific seating arrangement near a partition on transportation vehicles, providing advantages such as increased legroom and accessibility, despite potential limitations.
Etymology of BULKHEAD SEATING
The word "bulkhead" has its roots in the Middle English word "bochhede" which meant "partition" or "retaining wall". "Bulk" referred to "a heap" or "cargo" and "head" meant "part" or "end". The term was originally used in the nautical context to refer to a wall or partition that separates different compartments on a ship.
The term "bulkhead seating" likely originated in the aviation industry. In airplanes, bulkhead seating refers to the seats located directly behind a physical partition or wall that separates different sections of the aircraft, such as the cabin and the galley. These seats typically offer more legroom and space due to the absence of seats in front of them.
The term has been widely adopted in the airline industry and is now commonly used to refer to seats located near partition walls, regardless of the mode of transportation.
