What is the term for a seating arrangement in an aircraft?

The term "configuration" specifically refers to the arrangement of seats within an aircraft. It encompasses the overall layout and organization of passenger seating, including the number of seats, their orientation, and the space between them. This term is commonly used in the aviation industry to describe how the seating plan may vary on different models of aircraft or between different airlines, reflecting various service offerings or class distinctions.

While "layout," "formation," and "design" are related concepts, they don't capture the specific technical meaning used in aviation. Layout can broadly refer to the arrangement of different components but is less precise when discussing aircraft seating. Formation typically pertains to a pattern or order, often in a military context, and does not apply to seating within commercial aircraft. Design suggests the aesthetic or functional aspects but doesn't directly refer to the seating arrangement itself. Therefore, "configuration" is the most accurate term to describe the seating arrangement in an aircraft.