Can You Choose Your Seats On A United Airlines Flight? +1-855-742-0149

When booking a flight, one of the first things travelers often want to know is: United Airlines Seat Selection Policy The answer is yes—but with some caveats. United Airlines offers several seat selection options, but the level of choice you get depends on your ticket type, when you book, your elite status, and whether you're willing to pay extra.

In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about choosing seats on United Airlines, including free options, paid upgrades, and tips for getting the best seats.

Can You Choose Your Seats on a United Airlines Flight When Booking?

Yes, in most cases, you can choose your seat when booking a United Airlines flight. During the booking process, United usually displays a seat map, allowing you to select available seats. However, whether the seat is free or costs extra depends on the fare class you've purchased.

Seat Selection Based on Fare Type

1. Basic Economy
   If you purchase a Basic Economy ticket, you cannot choose your seat in advance. United will automatically assign you a seat at check-in, and you won’t be seated with your travel companions unless there happens to be space.
   You can sometimes pay a fee to choose a seat with Basic Economy, but options are usually limited, and it's not guaranteed that you'll be able to sit with others in your party.

2. Economy (Standard)
   Standard Economy fares include the ability to select a seat for free at the time of booking or anytime after. However, not all seats may be available for free. Some seats, especially those with extra legroom or preferred location (like aisle or window), may require an additional fee.

3. Premium Plus, Business, and First Class
   Passengers flying in Premium Plus (premium economy), Business, or First Class can select seats at booking without any extra charge. These cabins also have more spacious seating and enhanced services.

What Types of Seats Can You Choose on United?

United Airlines offers several seat types across its cabins. Here are your options:

1. Standard Economy Seats
   These are regular coach seats with standard legroom. They're included with most fares (excluding Basic Economy) and are free to select in many cases.

2. Preferred Seats
   Preferred seats are located in the front of the economy cabin and may offer slightly more convenience for boarding and deplaning. These typically cost extra unless you have elite status.

3. Economy Plus® Seats
   Economy Plus seats offer more legroom (up to 6 inches more) and are situated toward the front of the economy section. They can be purchased as an add-on during booking or after, and are free for MileagePlus Premier® members.

4. Premium Cabin Seats (Premium Plus, Business, First)
   These are premium seats that come with their respective fare classes and offer more comfort, service, and space.

When Else Can You Choose or Change Your Seat?

Even if you didn’t choose a seat during booking, you can still select or change your seat later:

• During Online Check-In: Starting 24 hours before departure, you can check in online and select or change your seat, if available.

• Via the United App or Website: After booking, log into your reservation to modify your seat assignment anytime before check-in.

• At the Airport: You can speak to an agent at the check-in counter or gate to inquire about seat changes or upgrades.

Is There a Fee to Choose Seats on United Airlines?

This depends on your fare type and the seat you're choosing.

• Basic Economy: No free seat selection; fees apply if you want to choose a seat.

• Economy: Standard seats are often free, but Preferred or Economy Plus seats will cost extra.

• Economy Plus: Prices vary by route and seat availability. Expect to pay $20 to $200 depending on the flight.

• Preferred Seating: Usually $9 to $59 per segment.

• Elite Members: United’s Premier members get free access to Preferred seats and Economy Plus on some or all flights, depending on status level.

Can You Choose Seats for Group or Family Travel?

Yes, but it gets tricky with Basic Economy. Since seat selection isn’t included with Basic Economy tickets, families may be split up unless they pay to choose seats in advance.

To ensure families sit together:

• Avoid Basic Economy if traveling with children.

• Book early to increase seat availability.

• Contact United Customer Service if you’re having trouble seating your group together. United says it will attempt to seat children under 15 with at least one adult on the reservation.

Tips for Getting the Best Seats on United Airlines

Now that we’ve answered can you choose your seats on a United Airlines flight, here are a few tips to help you get the best seat for your journey:

1. Book Early
   The earlier you book, the better the seat selection will be—especially for popular routes and travel dates.

2. Join MileagePlus
   Even if you’re not a frequent flyer, United’s loyalty program can provide occasional perks, including better seat access and upgrades.

3. Consider Economy Plus
   If comfort matters, Economy Plus can be a worthwhile investment, especially on long-haul flights.

4. Use Seat Selection Tools
   Websites like SeatGuru provide seat maps with reviews to help you pick the most comfortable or spacious options.

5. Check Back Often
   Seat availability can change due to cancellations or upgrades. Revisit your booking periodically to see if better seats open up.

Final Thoughts

So, United Airlines Seat Selection Policy Yes—but how much choice you get depends on the type of ticket you purchase. While premium and standard economy fares allow seat selection (sometimes with added fees), Basic Economy offers little to no flexibility without extra cost.

Being strategic with your booking and understanding United's seat policies can help ensure you get a seat you’re comfortable with—whether that’s an aisle seat near the front or extra legroom in Economy Plus.