What is preferred seating on American Airlines?

Preferred seats don't receive any extra legroom, but they are in better locations of the Main Cabin that are closer to the front of the plane, allowing you to access your seat quicker when boarding and exit more quickly when getting off.



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  • First. The highest level of service on flights across the U.S. First.
  • Business. The highest level of service on shorter-distance international flights. Business.
  • Premium Economy. More space and amenities on select long-distance international, Hawaii and Alaska flights. Premium Economy.


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Your seats You can choose a specific seat at any time for a fee. AAdvantage® members can choose complimentary seats based on their status. Otherwise, seats will be automatically assigned for free at check-in. We cannot guarantee that companions on the same ticket will be seated together.

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Preferred seating features seats with better locations than standard United economy flights. The seats are the same, but they tend to be closer to the front of the cabin. Costs for preferred seating vary depending on the flight, but these are the cheapest paid seat upgrades you can find on United flights.

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A preferred seat is a regular United Economy seat that's closer to the front of the plane. This will put you in the first few rows behind Economy Plus. Extra legroom is not included.

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You might see the accommodation of preferential seating on a child's IEP. Preferential seating means that a student's seat is in a location that is most beneficial for learning in the classroom.

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The extra legroom can make a real difference to those of us who are tall. It's not just tall people that can benefit though. If you've ever been frustrated or felt claustrophobic when the person in the seat in front reclines you're not alone. This is a very common complaint and can affect those of any height.

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As long as you have your AAdvantage program number on your reservation, your boarding pass should show your correct elite or priority boarding group. If it doesn't, you can see an American Airlines agent before boarding to have it corrected.

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You can choose a specific seat at any time for a fee (complimentary for AAdvantage® members based on your status). Otherwise, seats will be automatically assigned for free at check-in. We can't guarantee that you'll be seated together.

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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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Basic economy fares are cheaper than main cabin. However, you lose out on flexibility for flight changes and/or cancellations, seat selection options and the ability to earn miles at a high rate.

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If you want to experience as little turbulence as possible, it is best to book a seat above the wings. It has been proven that turbulence is least noticeable there. Another good choice is a seat in the front of the plane, as vibrations are also less noticeable there than in the back.

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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 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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Meal and complimentary beverages, including beer, wine and spirits after takeoff. Mid-flight snacks.

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