United Airlines Seat Selection Policy +1-855-742-0149

When it comes to air travel, comfort and convenience begin with choosing the right seat. United Airlines understands this well and offers a range of seat selection options to help travelers find the seating arrangement that best suits their needs. Whether you’re flying economy or first class, booking early or last minute, United Airlines Seat Selection Policy provides choices and flexibility tailored to different budgets and preferences.

This guide offers a detailed look at United Airlines’ seat selection policy, including how to select a seat, what fees may apply, how Basic Economy differs, and tips for getting the best seat.

Overview of United Airlines Seat Selection Policy

United Airlines allows passengers to select their seats at various stages of the booking process. However, seat selection availability and fees can vary based on the fare class, MileagePlus membership status, flight route, and more.

Here are the main points of the policy:

• Passengers can choose seats during booking or later via “Manage Reservations.”

• Seat selection may be free or paid, depending on your fare type.

• Basic Economy passengers typically cannot choose seats in advance unless they pay a fee.

• Preferred seating, Economy Plus, and extra legroom seats are available for an added cost.

• Elite MileagePlus members may receive complimentary upgrades or preferred seating.

Seat Selection During Booking

When you book a flight on United.com or through the United mobile app, you’ll be given the option to choose your seat. The interactive seat map shows what’s available on your specific flight, including standard seats, Economy Plus, and premium seating.

You can:

• View the layout of the plane

• See which seats are available and which are already taken

• Choose from free standard seats or pay for upgrades

If you skip seat selection during booking, you can return later to assign a seat via the “Manage Reservations” section.

Seat Options on United Airlines

United offers a variety of seating options depending on your fare class, preferences, and route. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Standard Seats (Economy Class)

• Available for most fare types (except Basic Economy without payment)

• No extra amenities or benefits

• Can be selected for free with most Economy fares

2. Preferred Seats

• Standard legroom but located in more convenient areas (closer to the front or exits)

• Available for an additional fee unless you're a Premier member

• Ideal for faster deplaning or quicker access

3. Economy Plus

• Extra legroom (up to 6 inches more than standard Economy)

• Located toward the front of the Economy section

• Includes earlier boarding (Group 3)

• Can be purchased or is free for Premier members

4. Premium Plus

• Wider seats, more legroom, upgraded meals

• Available on select long-haul international and transcontinental flights

• Can be purchased during booking or upgraded using miles or cash

5. Business and First Class

• Fully lie-flat seats on most long-haul flights

• Complimentary seat selection included in fare

• No additional selection fee required

Seat Selection Fees

The cost to choose a seat on United Airlines varies. Factors include:

• Route

• Fare class

• Seat type (standard vs. preferred vs. Economy Plus)

• Time of booking

Typical fees:

• Standard Economy Seats: Free for Economy fares (except Basic)

• Basic Economy: ~$15–$45 per passenger for standard seat selection

• Preferred Seats: ~$10–$30 depending on route

• Economy Plus: ~$20–$200 depending on flight length and route

You can view the exact seat selection price during booking or when managing your trip online.

United Basic Economy Seat Selection

One of the most important things to know is that Basic Economy tickets do not include free seat selection. If you don’t pay for a seat, United will assign one for you at check-in — and you may be separated from your travel companions.

If traveling with family or friends: Consider upgrading or paying for seat assignments to sit together. Otherwise, United does not guarantee adjacent seating.

Seat selection options for Basic Economy:

• Can pay extra to choose a seat in advance

• No access to Preferred or Economy Plus unless paying an additional upgrade fee

• MileagePlus Premier members and eligible companions may still receive benefits

MileagePlus Premier Member Benefits

United’s loyalty program, MileagePlus, offers seat selection perks to its elite members:

Premier Silver and above:

• Complimentary access to Preferred Seating

• Complimentary Economy Plus (Premier Gold and higher)

• Early access to upgrades, including Premium Plus and First Class

• Free seat selection on all fares except Basic Economy (unless waived with elite status)

This makes frequent flying with United more comfortable and cost-effective in the long run.

How to Select or Change Seats

There are multiple ways to select or modify your seat with United Airlines:

1. During Booking

• Choose seats directly via the seat map before checkout.

2. After Booking

• Go to "My Trips" on United.com or the mobile app

• Enter your confirmation number and last name

• Select your seat or upgrade from the seat map

3. Mobile App

• Use the United app to view and change seats anytime before check-in

• Access boarding passes and flight info at the same time

4. At the Airport

• Use self-service kiosks or ask an agent at the counter

• Limited availability closer to departure

Traveling with Children: Family Seating Policy

United Airlines aims to seat children under 12 next to an accompanying adult, even on Basic Economy fares. If you’re booking with kids:

• Book as early as possible

• Use the family seating tool or call customer service

• United’s system will attempt to seat children next to adults for no extra charge when seats are available

This policy complies with DOT guidelines and applies across all fare types.

Tips to Get the Best Seats

1. Book Early – More seat options are available the earlier you book.

2. Consider Upgrading – Economy Plus offers better comfort for a modest fee.

3. Join MileagePlus – Frequent flyers earn better seats and free upgrades.

4. Check Back Often – Seat availability can change as other passengers modify their reservations.

5. Use Seat Maps – Use tools like SeatGuru or United’s seat map to pick a comfortable seat.

6. Avoid Last-Minute Basic Economy – You may end up with a middle seat or one far from your group.

Final Thoughts

United Airlines Seat Selection Policy offers flexibility and control, allowing passengers to choose the level of comfort they want — from standard Economy to lie-flat seats in Polaris Business. While Basic Economy is the most restrictive, travelers can still choose to upgrade or pay for specific seating arrangements.

Understanding your fare class, planning ahead, and using available tools can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re flying short-haul domestic or intercontinental, United gives you the power to fly your way — seat and all.

FAQs About United Airlines Seat Selection Policy

Q1: Can I change my seat after check-in?
Yes, you can still change your seat until boarding, but options may be limited.

Q2: Are seat selection fees refundable?
Seat fees are generally non-refundable, unless you’re moved due to an aircraft change or cancellation.

Q3: Can I upgrade after selecting a seat?
Yes. You can pay to move to Economy Plus or Premium Plus, subject to availability.

Q4: Do all United planes offer Economy Plus?
Most mainline aircraft and long-haul international planes offer Economy Plus, but availability may vary on regional jets.

Q5: What happens if I don’t select a seat?
If you skip seat selection (or fly Basic Economy without paying), United will assign one for you at check-in.