This article explains how and when you can choose your seat on United, and what it may cost.
Can I choose my seat in advance?
Seat selection becomes available once your ticket is issued. Tickets are typically issued one to two months before departure. If you check before then and the airline tells you your flight isn't paid for yet, that's normal — it simply means your ticket hasn't been issued yet.
You may be able to request a seat online even before your ticket is issued, depending on your fare type.
Once ticketed, you can request a seat directly with United, online or by phone.
Is there a cost?
Based on the information available, seat selection doesn't carry a set fee, though this can depend on the type of request and seat availability. If a cost does apply, seat selection is typically free at check-in, starting 24 hours before your flight.
How do I request a seat?
- Online: Visit United's website and use your confirmation number to access your reservation and select a seat, once your ticket is issued.
- By phone: Call United at 1-800-864-8331 once your ticket is issued.
If you're traveling with a Group Coordinator (and flying with 15 or more travelers)
Your group's seats are held in a reserved block with the airline. Advanced seat selection with United isn't available for group bookings.
Need help?
If you have questions about your airline's seating, we recommend you first visit the airline's website and use your confirmation number to access your reservation. If you run into trouble selecting a seat at that time, review the timeline information above, as you may be too early to select a seat. If you still have issues after that, reach out to our team and we'll help you sort it out.