How Do I Choose a Seat for An Airplane?

Airline seat selections process may seem like a pretty cut-and-dry affair, but they actually take a longer, more circuitous way, further embellished with do's and don'ts.

Seat Selection Made at Booking

Under normal circumstances, such seat maps will display seats by window, aisle, and middle, with exit rows and bulkhead seats.

Some seats are allocated to its fare ticket; others may be for an extra fee. Standard fare for typical economy seats may be free; however, cheap fares or basic economy tickets may not allow anyone to select their free seat. Extra legroom seats, preferred location, or seats that are nearest the front tend to come with an extra charge.

Seat Selection Made After Booking

Passengers who fail to select their seat at booking can still select their choice of seat later on. The airlines have a 'Manage Booking' or 'My Trips' section of their website or app where you can make changes regarding your seat. These could further reduce, however, on certain very busy routes. Popular or favorite ones are taken early, so don't be too late to keep them.

While some airlines offer free selection of seats until near departure, for others, the same options have to be paid for during check-in.

Online Check-In

Usually, online check-in opens around 24 to 48 hours before departure, whereupon a passenger who has not selected a seat will be allocated one automatically. Seats are then released to people who are willing to go for a seat change without cost.

Assignment of seats is made at airport check-in counters, especially for those needing assistance or who have special requirements.

At Airport: Seat Changes

Requests for seat changes can be made at airport gates on a subject to availability basis. The agents at the gate will provide assistance regarding swaps executed due to operational changes, upgrades, or the need to hold groups together. However, absolutely anything that interferes with seat reservation changes at the last moment cannot be promised.

Considerations Affecting Selection Of Seats

Several factors could determine the ticket and availability of those fares:

Rule of fare/ticket.

Frequent flyer or elite status.

Aircraft dimension and seating map.

Particular needs with a medical condition or a minor to travel with.

Passengers with loyalty status commonly receive free access to upgraded seats.

Recommended Best Activities Towards Getting Seats

Early booking ensures free choice of seating. Near real-time updates of the seat map reveal seats newly given back. Enroll in the airline's loyalty scheme and check in early for the ones that accept you-the odds are then in your favor.

Conclusion

A smart traveler, who knows exactly when and how to choose a seat, will be able to make educated decisions about the flight experience being hassle-free and pleasant.