First of all, the proper link to the original source: http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/air_space/4219452.html http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/ai

First of all, the proper link to the original source: http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/air_space/4219452.html http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/air_space/4219452.ht... I do not agree with the conclusion. They used a small sample size (20) and they did not correct for any differences in plane type, accident type, phase of flight, etc. You simply cannot draw any conclusions with their data set and methodology. The probability of death is going to be overwhelmingly driven by the speed and orientation of the aircraft at impact, which is going to be determined by the cause of the accident, the skill of the pilot(s), and just plain luck. You'll be much better off just picking the seat that you will be most comfortable in.