If you're flying with United soon, you might be wondering: United Airlines Seat Selection Policy The short answer is yes—but the details depend on your fare type, how early you book, and whether you're open to paying extra.
United Airlines gives passengers multiple options when it comes to seat selection, but not all of them are free. In this guide, we'll walk you through when and how you can choose your seat, what it might cost, and tips for getting the best spot onboard.
Can You Choose Your Seats on a United Airlines Flight When You Book?
Yes, in most cases, you’ll have the opportunity to select a seat during the booking process. Once you enter your flight details and reach the seat map, you can typically choose from available seats in your cabin.
However, your ability to choose a seat for free—or even at all—depends on the fare class you purchase.
Seat Selection by Fare Type
1. Basic Economy
If you're flying on a Basic Economy ticket, seat selection is not included. United will automatically assign your seat during check-in, and there’s a strong chance you won’t be seated next to your travel companions.
That said, United sometimes allows Basic Economy passengers to pay for seat selection after booking, but options are often limited.
2. Standard Economy (Main Cabin)
When you book a Standard Economy fare, you can usually choose from regular seats in the cabin at no extra charge. However, some preferred locations—like aisle, window, or front-of-cabin seats—might cost extra.
3. Economy Plus
This is United’s extra-legroom seating option within the Economy cabin. You can purchase these seats at booking, during check-in, or anytime before your flight if they’re still available.
4. Premium Plus, Business, and First Class
These higher fare classes come with seat selection included. You can choose any available seat in your cabin at the time of booking, with no additional fee.
What Seat Types Does United Airlines Offer?
United offers a range of seating options depending on the aircraft and route. Here’s what you might see on your seat map:
Standard Economy
Regular seats with standard legroom and pitch. Free to select with most Economy fares (except Basic Economy).
Preferred Seats
Located in the front of the Economy cabin, these seats make for quicker boarding and deplaning. Available for a fee unless you’re a United elite member.
Economy Plus®
Extra legroom (up to 6 inches more), closer to the front of the plane, and available for an upgrade fee. Complimentary for Premier Silver members and above.
Premium Plus / Business / First Class
More spacious, comfortable seating with enhanced service. These seats are included when you purchase a premium fare.
Can You Change Your Seat After Booking?
Yes, you can usually change your seat anytime before check-in, as long as there are options available.
Here’s how:
- Log into your booking via United’s website or mobile app
- Click on the seat map and select your new seat (fees may apply)
- At check-in (24 hours before departure), you may still be able to change your seat
- At the airport, you can ask a gate agent about last-minute seat changes or upgrades
Pro tip: Sometimes better seats open up close to departure as passengers change plans or get upgraded.
How Much Does It Cost to Choose a Seat on United?
The cost of seat selection on United Airlines varies depending on your fare type and the seat location. Here's a general breakdown:
- Basic Economy: No free seat selection; fees start around $10–$30 (if offered)
- Preferred Seats: Typically $9–$59 per flight segment
- Economy Plus: Ranges from $20 to $200, depending on the route
- Standard Economy: Most seats are free to choose, but select ones may have fees
If you're a MileagePlus Premier® member, you may be eligible for free access to Preferred and Economy Plus seats.
Traveling with Family or in a Group?
This is where seat selection becomes extra important. If you're flying with kids or in a group, you probably want to sit together—but that’s not guaranteed unless you proactively choose your seats.
- Avoid Basic Economy if you're traveling with children, as there's no guaranteed seating together.
- Choose seats early, ideally at booking, to secure spots next to each other.
- United's family seating policy states they will “attempt to seat children under 15 next to at least one adult,” but it’s not a guarantee unless you pay for seat assignments.
If you're having trouble, call United customer service or check the mobile app to see available options.
Tips for Choosing the Best Seat on United Airlines
Now that you know the answer to can you choose your seats on a United Airlines flight, here are a few quick tips to get the most out of your seat selection:
1. Book Early
The earlier you book, the better your chances of finding good seats—especially for Economy Plus or window/aisle preferences.
2. Use the United App or Website
These tools make it easy to check and change seats anytime before departure.
3. Consider Upgrading to Economy Plus
For taller travelers or long-haul flights, Economy Plus can significantly improve comfort.
4. Leverage Your Elite Status
Premier members get complimentary access to better seats. Even general MileagePlus members may see early upgrade offers.
5. Use Tools Like SeatGuru
Before choosing, check a seat map site like SeatGuru to see reviews on specific seats—some may have limited recline or no window.
Final Thoughts: Can You Choose Your Seats on a United Airlines Flight?
So, to recap—United Airlines Seat Selection Policy Yes, you can, but how and when you do it depends on your fare and how much flexibility you need.
- Standard Economy and above: Seat selection is generally free, but upgrades cost extra.
- Basic Economy: Seat selection isn’t included, but you can sometimes pay to choose one.
- Elite flyers: You’ll get access to better seats for free, including Economy Plus and Preferred.
Choosing the right seat is one of the easiest ways to improve your travel experience—whether you want to sleep, enjoy a view, or be the first off the plane. Just don’t leave it to the last minute!
Comments