Did You Know Why Many Aeroplanes Don't Have Seat Number 13? Superstition or Safety- The Real Reason Behind It

Aeroplane Seat Facts: Have you ever observed that seat number 13 is missing from some aeroplanes? Many passengers wonder why the seat numbers jump straight from 12 to 14 when they are boarding. It is a minor detail that is frequently overlooked, but it has a fascinating history. The missing seat has a strong emotional and philosophical connection that has nothing to do with airline operations or aircraft construction.

Around the world, numbers frequently have symbolic meanings that go beyond mathematics; some are believed to bring good fortune, while others are considered to bring bad luck. Both travellers and aviation experts are talking about this odd seat number 13. Is it superstition, psychology, or safety? In order to discover the truth, we must investigate how various cultures interpret numbers and how airlines make choices that maintain their passengers' composure and self-assurance while in flight.

Let’s understand the real story behind this aviation superstition and find out how airlines handle it across different countries.

Why don't many aeroplanes have Seat Number 13?

Aeroplanes Seat facts (Image: Canva)

The number 13 is regarded as unlucky or inauspicious in many cultures. This belief comes from ancient myths, religious stories, and customs which connect the number 13 to accidents and bad luck.

* In Christianity, it’s said that 13 people were present at the Last Supper, with Judas, the 13th guest, betraying Jesus.
* In Western folklore, Friday the 13th is often feared as an unlucky day.
* Some hotels, elevators and buildings also skip the 13th floor to avoid discomfort among guests.

Airlines prefer to remove anything that might worsen anxiety or superstition because flying already causes anxiety in some passengers.

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Airlines That Skip Seat Number 13

To help passengers feel more at ease, many major airlines worldwide avoid seat number 13. This shows that cultural beliefs strongly influence airline designs, even in modern times.

* Lufthansa, Ryanair, and Air France are some well-known airlines that skip row 13 entirely.
* You’ll often see the numbering jump from row 12 directly to 14.
* Similarly, some Asian airlines skip other numbers like 4 or 17, as they are considered unlucky in local cultures (for example, number 4 sounds like “death” in Chinese).

Is It About Safety or Psychology?

There is no connection between aircraft design or flight safety and skipping seat 13. It's all about the psychology and comfort of the passengers. Airlines are aware that unlucky numbers can cause anxiety in certain travellers, which may result in complaints or seat swaps.

By removing seat 13, airlines ensure:

* A smoother boarding experience.
* Reduced anxiety for superstitious passengers.
* A more positive perception of the flight environment.

It’s a small adjustment that helps maintain customer satisfaction.

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A Blend of Belief and Business

Overall, skipping seat 13 is a combination of business skill and belief. Although there isn't any scientific evidence to be afraid of the number, airlines can maintain passenger satisfaction by honouring cultural feelings. Regardless of your belief in luck, the missing seat 13 serves as a reminder that customs continue to have an impact on contemporary travel.