Does British Airways make you pay for seat selection?

Flexible and semi-flexible tickets They also include free seat selection. Flexible fares (Plus Flex) allow you to choose seats for free from the time of booking. Semi-flexible fares (Plus) allow you to choose seats for free from 48 hours before departure.



Yes, British Airways typically charges for seat selection on most fare types, but the specifics depend on the ticket you purchase, your frequent flyer status, and the route. Here’s a breakdown:

1. By Fare Type (for flights without a booking class exception)

British Airways has three main fare bundles: Basic (Hand baggage only): Seat selection is not included. You must pay to choose a seat in advance, or you will be assigned a seat for free at check-in. Standard (Includes checked baggage): Seat selection is included, but only from 24 hours before departure. If you want to choose a seat earlier than that, you must pay an extra fee. Flex (Fully flexible): Complimentary seat selection is available from the time of booking.

2. Exceptions & Complimentary Seat Selection

You can often select seats for free at booking if you fall into one of these categories: Executive Club Members with Status: Silver (OneWorld Ruby) and above: Free seat selection at booking for themselves and companions on the same booking. Bronze (no status): Free seat selection only from 24 hours before departure (similar to Standard fares). Travelling in a Premium Cabin: Passengers in Club World (business), First, or Premium Economy get complimentary seat selection at booking. Certain Booking Classes: Some full-fare economy tickets (usually flexible fares) may include it. Family Seating: BA has a policy to try and seat children under 12 next

People Also Ask

After you finish booking your flight (or during the process, depending on the airline), you should click to view the seat map and make your pick. If you book your flight with friends or family members on the same reservation, they will likely be assigned seats nearby automatically.

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If you don't choose your seats in advance, we'll do our best to seat your family together a few days before your flight departs. However, the seat selection may be limited at that time and your seats may be split across different rows or the aisle.

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For all fare classes, except Basic Economy, you will be able to pick your seat or change your seat assignment. If you have a Basic Economy ticket, you're able to purchase a seat assignment during booking and up until check-in opens. Learn more about Basic Economy restrictions.

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Fortunately there are a few ways to not pay the British Airways seat selection fee that applies to Economy, Premium Ecconomy, and Business Class:
  1. Executive Club / Oneworld Elite Status. ...
  2. Flexible Tickets: Free Seat Selection. ...
  3. Traveling with an Infant Under 2: Free Seat Selection. ...
  4. Disability Requires Specific Seating.


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If you don't choose your seats in advance, we always do our best to seat your family together based on flight seat availability. This may mean that you'll be seated in adjacent rows or across the aisle. All children under 12 will be seated with an accompanying adult. Anyone over 12 may be seated separately.

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For passengers who prefer a better view with a window seat and direct aisle access along the upper deck, seats 53A, 53K, 59A, and 59K are their best bets. If seating along the lower deck is preferred, still with a window view plus direct aisle access, 15A and 15K are the best choices.

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What are the best seats on a plane?
  • Best seat for a smooth ride: A seat over the wing.
  • Best seat for sleepers: A window seat near the front.
  • Best seat for maximum legroom: An aisle seat in the second exit row.


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What is an airline seat selection fee? A seat selection fee allows you to reserve a seat in your class of service. Each airline ticket comes with a confirmed seat, but if you want to choose your seat location, most domestic airlines will charge an additional fee.

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Unless you pay for a seat, you'll be assigned one either at check-in or at boarding time. You are, however, guaranteed a seat as much as with any other ticket.

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The best seats in Economy Class On shorter flights in Economy, I'll typically choose a window seat (for the views) and pay extra to sit in the front of the cabin or at the bulkhead for more legroom. On long-haul flights, I'll consider an aisle seat located about 4-5 rows from the back.

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The best seats in Economy Class On long-haul flights, I'll consider an aisle seat located about 4-5 rows from the back. These seats offer direct aisle access and there's sufficient distance from toilets and galleys.

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