British Airways is one of the most prominent airlines operating in the UK and major parts of the world. Since the airline has a large passenger base, it is mandatory for them to establish a smooth functioning British Airways seat selection policy. These policies are revised over time crafting them into perfect ones. So let’s stop bragging and start learning details about the British Airways seat selection process.
What is British Airways Seat Selection Policy and Rules
Selecting your desired seat onboard is a privilege, so most airlines do not allow it for free. Here is the British Airways seat selection policy you must keep in mind:
- Unless you are making a British Airways premium economy seat selection or in any above classes, you won’t be allowed to choose your seats.
- Starting from 24 hours before departure when check-in opens, you will be allowed to choose your seat for free.
- You will surely have to pay a fee for selecting seats but it will depend on the fare type you are travelling on and the type of seats you choose.
- When to Choose Your Seat: It’s advisable to select your seat as early as possible. You can do this during booking or later via the “Manage My Booking” feature.
- Free vs. Paid Selection: Whether you pay for seat selection depends on factors like your fare type and cabin class. Here’s the breakdown:
- Basic Ticket (Economy, Hand-Baggage Only): Your seat is allocated automatically. However, you can pay to choose your seat during booking or wait until check-in opens.
- Executive Club Members: Collect Avios when paying for seat selection on British Airways flights.
- Traveling in First Class: Seat selection is free from booking to departure.
- Gold/oneworld Emerald: Free seat selection for your entire party.
- Silver/oneworld Sapphire: Free seat selection at booking (excluding exit row seats on long-haul flights).
- Bronze/oneworld Ruby: Free seat selection for you and your party seven days before departure.
- Exit Row Seats: Available for free on long-haul flights 24 hours before departure.
- Group Bookings: Free seat selection for Bronze members seven days before departure.
- British Airways allows seat changes, but availability may be limited. Refunds apply only if the airline changes your seat.
Fare Types and Their Perks
British Airways offers a range of fares, each with distinct features. So it’s all upon you to select which fare class is best for you. Let’s check them out:
- Basic (Economy, Hand-Baggage Only): Ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Seat allocation is provided at check-in.
- Standard Economy: Choose your seat for free during online check-in.
- Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus): Enjoy more legroom and priority boarding. Free seat selection at booking.
- Business Class (Club World): Lie-flat beds, lounge access, and complimentary seat selection.
- First Class: Ultimate luxury with personalized service and free seat selection from booking.
How To Select Your Seats For British Airlines?
Selecting Seats During Booking
The best time to choose your seats is during the booking process. So here are the steps you can follow to select your seats during booking:
- When booking your flight, visit the British Airways website or use the mobile app.
- Log in to your account and access “Manage My Booking.”
- Enter your booking reference and last name.
- Under “Your booking details,” click on your flight number.
- Navigate to the “Seating” section.
- Click on “View or change seats for this flight.”
- Follow the instructions on the screen to select your preferred seat.
- Consider proximity to family or friends and any specific preferences.
Selecting Seats After Booking
- If you’ve already booked, log in to “Manage My Booking” using your booking reference and last name.
- Click on your flight number under “Your booking details.”
- Navigate to the “Seating” section.
- Choose “View or change seats for this flight.”
- Review the available seats and their features.
- If you’re not satisfied with your initial choice, change to a different seat.
Fees For Selecting Your Seats?
We recommend selecting your seat as early as possible to secure your preferred spot and avoid being separated from family or friends. You can choose your seat during booking or later through Manage My Booking. Whether you pay for seat selection depends on factors like your fare type and cabin class. Here’s the breakdown of the British Airways seat selection fee:
- Basic Ticket (Economy, Hand-Baggage Only): Your seat is allocated, but you can pay to choose one.
- Executive Club Members: Collect Avios when paying for seat selection.
- Free Seat Selection-
- First Class is free from booking.
- Gold/oneworld Emerald: The whole party will be on British Airways flights.
- Silver/oneworld Sapphire: Everyone on your booking.
- Bronze/oneworld Ruby: Seven days before departure.
- Exit Row Seats: Free selection 24 hours before departure on long-haul flights.
Factors to Consider While Selecting Your Seats
Before you blindly select your seats, make sure to consider certain factors that will help you better decide the seats you want for yourself:
- Personal Preferences: Decide where you want to sit based on your needs. Consider window vs. aisle, proximity to restrooms, and whether you prefer to stretch out or stay cozy.
- Aircraft Type and Route: Different planes have varying seat layouts. Research the specific aircraft for your flight.
- Class of Travel: Seat options differ between economy, premium economy, and business class.
- Flight Duration: Longer flights may require more comfortable seating.
- Travel Companions: Consider the preferences of family or friends if traveling together.
- Exit Rows: Exit row seats offer extra legroom but may have restrictions for certain passengers to sit on.
Summary:
In this article, we’ve explored British Airways seat selection policies, fare types, and insider tips. Remember, your seat isn’t just a spot; it’s your gateway to comfort, views, and memorable journeys. So, next time you fly, choose wisely and let your adventure take flight.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) How about refunds for seat selection?
If you’ve paid for seat selection and need to change your flight, you can request a refund for the seat fee.
2) What if I’m traveling with family or friends?
To avoid sitting separately, choose your seats early. If you’re an Executive Club Member, you can do British Airways select seats for your whole party.
3) How much does British Airways charge for seat selection?
The British Airways seat selection charges on British Airways totally depend on the type of fare you have chosen.