"sitting in the plane" vs "sitting on the plane"

Question

"sitting in the plane" vs "sitting on the plane"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Sitting in the plane' is used when referring to being inside the plane, while 'sitting on the plane' is used when referring to sitting on the seats of the plane.

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

This phrase is used when someone is physically inside the plane, sitting in a seat or in the cabin.

Examples:

I enjoy sitting in the plane and looking out the window.
The flight attendant asked us to remain seated in the plane until the doors were opened.

Alternatives:

sitting inside the plane
sitting within the plane
sitting on a plane seat

This phrase is used when someone is sitting on the seats of the plane, rather than being inside the plane.

Examples:

I was sitting on the plane waiting for takeoff.
She found her lost book under the seat while sitting on the plane.

Alternatives:

sitting in a plane seat
sitting aboard the plane
sitting inside the aircraft

Answer 1

sitting in the plane

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to being inside the plane.

Answer 2

sitting on the plane

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to sitting on the seats of the plane.

"sitting in the plane" vs "sitting on the plane"

sitting in the plane

sitting on the plane

Related Comparisons