Delta Air Lines A321-200

On a longer domestic sector it earns its fare difference — dedicated overhead bin space, a few extra centimetres of legroom, and early boarding. On a short hop under two hours, the Main Cabin exit row is a credible cheaper alternative.

Bulkhead rows and the over-wing exit rows. The exit rows on the A321 are particularly generous, though you will not be able to recline fully. Front exit rows on each block are the sweet spot if they are available at booking.

The A321-200 has its engines slung under the wing well forward of the tail, so the rear galley noise is mostly from crew movement and the lavatories rather than engine roar. That said, last few rows near the rear galley still see regular foot traffic throughout the flight.