Wondering when and how to select your seats? This article explains how airline seating works, when to make your selection, and what to expect based on your airline’s policies.
How and when to select your seat
You can choose your seat once your flights are ticketed, typically around 30 days before departure. At that point, you’ll be able to select seats directly through the airline’s official website or mobile app.
Avoid selecting or purchasing seats before your flights are ticketed. If your itinerary changes due to a schedule update, your seat selection may not carry over.
Airline-specific policies
Every airline handles seating a little differently. Here are a few common policies:
- Some airlines only allow seat selection within 24 hours of departure
- Others may charge a fee for advance seat assignments
- If you don’t choose a seat, the airline will assign one for you automatically
For the most accurate information, be sure to check directly with your airline.
Always use the airline’s official website or mobile app to select your seat or manage your booking. Avoid third-party sites that may pose as the airline - these can lead to scams or invalid charges.
Next steps:
- Wait until your flights are ticketed (about 30 days before departure) before purchasing any seats.
- Use the airline’s official site or app to select your seat.
- Review your airline’s specific seating policies - you may have to wait until check-in to pick a seat.