If you don't pre-book your seats, they will be allocated when you check in online or at the airport on a first come, first served basis. Please note that seats across the aisle or in the row behind or in front are classed as 'together'.

On Jet2.com in 2026, seat allocation is primarily a paid choice if you want to ensure you sit with your travel companions. If you do not pay for seat selection during the booking process or via "Manage My Booking," the system will automatically assign your seats when you check in online (which opens 28 days before departure). While the airline's algorithm tries to keep families and groups together, this is not guaranteed for those who don't pay, particularly on full flights. For 2026 travelers, standard seat selection typically costs between £8 and £15 per person, per flight, while extra-legroom seats (often in the exit rows) can range from £20 to £35. If you are traveling as a large party and haven't pre-booked, it is highly recommended to check in the very minute the 28-day window opens to maximize the chances of the automated system finding adjacent seats for your group.

Excellent question! Seat allocation on Jet2 operates on a strictly pre-assigned basis, meaning you must select and pay for a specific seat in advance if you want to guarantee where you sit. There is no random or free seat assignment at check-in like on some other airlines.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how it works:

1. The Core Principle: Paid Seat Selection

Jet2’s policy is that all seats are allocated through pre-booking for a fee. This applies to almost all passengers, with very few exceptions. When: You can select seats during the initial booking process or later by managing your booking online (up to the day before departure). Cost: The fee varies depending on the route, seat type (standard, extra legroom, etc.), and how early you book. Prices typically range from around £4 to £30+ per seat, per flight leg.

2. Types of Seats & Allocation

• Standard Seats: These are the regular seats throughout the cabin. You pay to choose a specific one (e.g., window, aisle, near the front).
• Extra Legroom Seats: Located at the front of the cabin (rows 1-3 on most planes) and exit rows. These cost significantly more.
• Adjacent Seats for Families/Groups: This is the most critical point. Jet2 does not automatically seat families or groups together. To ensure you sit next to your travel companions, you must pre-book and pay for adjacent seats. The airline strongly emphasizes this during booking.

3. What Happens If You DON’T Pay for a Seat?

If you choose not to pre-book a seat, Jet2 will automatically allocate you a remaining seat for free at check-in. However, this is not a guarantee and happens very late in the process.