Avianca
Boeing 787-8
Avianca Boeing 787-8 Seat Guide (2026) | Cabin.coach
TL;DR
The 787-8 features a premium 1-2-1 reverse herringbone business layout with direct aisle access and mid-cabin window seats in economy offering the best light and privacy. Avoid row 1 for galley noise, the last rows of each cabin due to lavatory proximity and foot traffic, and note that some aircraft may have ex-Norwegian 2-3-2 recliners in economy. Seats 2A, 2K, 3A, and 3K offer ideal mid-cabin positioning with excellent service access.
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Avianca's Boeing 787-8 offers a modern long-haul experience with reverse herringbone business class and spacious economy seating. Learn which seats deliver the best comfort and which to avoid for optimal travel.
Business Class
Avianca's Boeing 787-8 business class features a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration with direct aisle access from every seat. The cabin comes in two versions: Standard V1 with 28 seats or High-Density V2 with 20 seats. Each business seat offers 20 inches of width with fully flat-bed capabilities and excellent privacy. The reverse herringbone design means window seats face outward while center seats face inward, creating distinct viewing angles. All business seats include direct aisle access, eliminating the need to climb over sleeping passengers.
Economy Class
Economy offers a standard 3-3-3 layout with 31-inch pitch in the High-Density V2 configuration. While width specifications aren't detailed, the 787-8's widebody fuselage provides reasonable shoulder room. The cabin benefits from the aircraft's large windows and modern lighting systems that reduce jet lag. Economy passengers enjoy access to the 787-8's advanced amenities including better air quality and humidity levels compared to older aircraft.
Best Seats
Seat | Cabin | Why |
|---|---|---|
2A | Economy | Mid-cabin window seat with optimal natural light, away from galley noise and lavatory traffic |
2K | Economy | Mid-cabin window on opposite side, same advantages as 2A with excellent viewing |
3A | Economy | Continues the mid-cabin sweet spot with window access and minimal disturbances |
3K | Economy | Opposite window seat maintaining mid-cabin positioning for balanced service access |
Seats to Avoid
Seat | Cabin | Why |
|---|---|---|
Row 1 | Business & Economy | Exposed to galley noise, crew activity, and frequent disturbances throughout the flight |
Last row of business cabin | Business | Proximity to lavatories creates odor and noise issues, increased foot traffic from economy passengers |
Last row of economy cabin | Economy | Lavatory queues and odors, reduced recline space, higher foot traffic and noise |
Entire economy section (if ex-Norwegian aircraft) | Economy | Some 787-8s retained ex-Norwegian 2-3-2 recliners instead of standard seats, offering less space and comfort |
What's the difference between V1 and V2 business class configurations?
The Standard V1 offers 28 business seats with more generous spacing, while High-Density V2 reduces this to 20 seats for a premium experience. Both maintain the 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout with 20-inch width and direct aisle access. Choose based on your airline's specific aircraft assignment.
Are all seats in business class direct aisle access?
Yes, the 1-2-1 reverse herringbone design ensures every business seat has direct aisle access, eliminating the need to cross sleeping passengers during the flight.
What makes mid-cabin economy seats better?
Seats in rows 2-3 avoid galley noise from row 1 and lavatory/traffic issues at the rear. Window seats (A and K) provide natural light and a sense of privacy without the middle-seat disadvantage.
Should I be concerned about ex-Norwegian aircraft?
If your flight uses an ex-Norwegian 787-8, be aware it may have 2-3-2 recliners in economy instead of standard seats. Confirm your aircraft configuration before booking if seat comfort is a priority.
How does the 787-8 compare to other widebody aircraft?
The 787-8 is considered one of the most passenger-friendly aircraft with superior air quality, humidity control, larger windows, and advanced lighting. It's particularly comfortable for long-haul flights compared to older 777 or 767 aircraft.
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