How to Pre-Select Your Seats and the Associated Charges

How to Pre-Select Your Seats and the Associated Charges

Pre-selecting your seat before a flight allows you to secure a preferred spot, whether for extra legroom, proximity to the front, or simply to ensure you sit with your travel companions. While many airlines allow this service during or after booking, seat selection policies and charges vary widely based on the carrier and fare type.

 

When and How to Select a Seat  

Seat selection can typically be done at three stages:

  • During Booking: Most airlines prompt you to choose a seat before final payment. Some include it as part of the ticket, while others offer it as a paid add-on;

  • After Booking: You can log in to the airline’s website or app, use the “Manage Booking” section, and choose or change your seat using your reference number;

  • During Check-In: If you skip seat selection earlier, you can often choose from the remaining seats during online check-in (usually 24 to 48 hours before departure).

Types of Seat Options  

  • Standard Seats: Regular seats in the economy cabin with no special features;

  • Preferred Seats: Often located at the front of the aircraft or closer to exits, allowing quicker boarding or disembarkation;

  • Extra Legroom Seats: Usually in exit rows or bulkhead rows, offering more space for an additional fee;

  • Window or Aisle Preference: Some airlines charge for specific seat positions, especially if you are flying on a basic fare.

Associated Charges  

  • Low-Cost Carriers: Airlines usually charge for all seat selections, with prices ranging from ₹200 to ₹1,500 or more depending on the route and seat type;

  • Full-Service Airlines: Some carriers may offer free seat selection on higher fare classes or long-haul flights. For basic economy or discounted fares, fees may still apply;

  • International Flights: Expect higher seat selection fees, especially for extra legroom or special zones. Prices can range from $10 to $100 (or equivalent in local currency), depending on the airline and sector length;

  • Frequent Flyers or Loyalty Members: Elite members may enjoy free seat selection as part of their benefits, including for companions.

Tips to Save on Seat Selection  

  • Book Early: More seat options are available the earlier you book, especially for popular window and aisle seats;

  • Check Fare Inclusions: Some fare types include seat selection. Compare the total cost of upgrading to a fare that includes it rather than paying separately;

  • Use Airline Apps: Some apps offer free seat selection promotions or notify you when desirable seats open up;

  • Wait for Check-In (if flexible): If seat preference is not a priority, you can sometimes select a decent seat for free at online check-in, especially on full-service carriers.

 

 


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