How much does seat selection cost on British Airways?

Choosing your seat at check-in If you haven't already chosen your seat, you can do so when you check in, from 24 hours before departure. This is free except on Basic (hand baggage only) fares, although your choice may be limited and a fee may still apply to exit row seats on long haul flights.



On British Airways, the cost of seat selection varies wildly depending on your fare type, cabin class, and frequent flyer status. For those on a Basic (Hand Baggage Only) fare, seat selection is almost never free; you can pay to choose a seat from the moment of booking, with prices typically ranging from £7 to £20 for a standard seat on short-haul flights and £30 to £60 for long-haul routes. If you choose not to pay, BA will allocate a seat for you for free when check-in opens 24 hours before departure. For Standard Economy (World Traveller) passengers, seat selection becomes free at the 24-hour check-in mark, but you can pay to "reserve" a seat early to ensure you sit with your group. High-demand spots, such as Exit Row seats, carry a premium of £50 to £75+. Members of the British Airways Executive Club with Silver or Gold status (or oneworld Sapphire/Emerald) enjoy the massive perk of free seat selection at the time of booking for most seats, providing a significant financial saving for frequent travelers who value specific locations on the aircraft.

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In fact, most regular airlines now charge for seat selection anyways. It's often around $10-$30 per seat per flight segment, so if you cave in and pay for that, it can add up quickly. You shouldn't do it. No matter which airline you're flying on, don't ever pay to select a seat.

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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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You can choose your seat when you're buying most tickets, through Manage Reservations after you've purchased your ticket, or during check-in.

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The best seats on a plane
  • Best seat for minimizing the effects of turbulence: A seat over the wing.
  • Best seat for peace and quiet: A seat near the front.
  • Best seat for legroom: A bulkhead or exit-row seat.
  • Best seat for sleeping: A window seat in a bulkhead row.


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Select Seats Early If you want to purchase cheap seats for your next flight then be sure to book your seats in advance. The earlier you book your seat with the airline, the cheaper they tend to be.

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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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Changing your seat You may change your seat at any time before you fly, up to and including at check-in (subject to availability). You can do this online in Manage My Booking. If you've paid to choose your seat, you may need to pay the difference if you move to a higher priced seat, as seat prices vary.

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To check if an upgrade is available on your flight, please speak to a member of British Airways staff at the airport who can advise you of the current availability and price. Customers who purchase an upgrade can benefit from the full entitlements of the upgraded cabin, including increased baggage allowances.

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  1. You don't have to buy tickets together to sit together.
  2. Buy your ticket, choose and confirm your seat, making sure the seat you want for the other person is available. Then, tell the other person which flight and seat you chose. ...
  3. My husband and I do this all the time. We like sitting across the aisle from each other, so.


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As an EarlyBird Check-In Customer, you'll have the benefit of an earlier boarding position, a better opportunity to select your preferred available seat, and earlier access to overhead bin storage for your carryon luggage.

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