When flying with United Airlines, one of the key aspects of planning your trip is selecting the right seat. Whether you're aiming for extra legroom, prefer a window seat, or want to sit with your travel companions, understanding United Airlines Seat Selection Policy can help you make the most of your flight experience.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about United Airlines seat selection in 2025 — including your options, possible fees, tips for getting the best seat, and more.
Can You Choose Your Seat on United Airlines?
Yes, United Airlines allows passengers to select their seats during the booking process or anytime before departure through the “My Trips” section on their website or app. However, seat selection availability and cost depend on the type of ticket you purchase and your MileagePlus membership status.
Here's a quick overview:
- Most fares include free standard seat selection.
- Basic Economy tickets usually do not.
- Upgraded seats (like Economy Plus or Preferred Seating) may come with an added fee.
- Premier members often get complimentary access to better seating options.
Seat Selection at the Time of Booking
When booking your flight on United.com or through the United app, you’ll have access to an interactive seat map. This map shows which seats are available, which ones require an upgrade fee, and which are already taken.
Passengers can choose from:
- Standard Economy seats
- Preferred seats (closer to the front of the plane)
- Economy Plus (offering extra legroom)
- Premium cabins like Premium Plus, Business Class, and First Class
If you don’t choose a seat during booking, you can return later and assign one through the “Manage Reservations” tool or the mobile app.
United Airlines Seat Types Explained
United offers several seating options to accommodate different needs and budgets:
1. Standard Economy Seats
- Included with most Economy tickets (except Basic Economy).
- No additional fees.
- Standard legroom and width.
2. Preferred Seats
- Located in more convenient parts of the aircraft (e.g., near the front or exits).
- No additional legroom, but allow faster boarding and deplaning.
- Available for a fee (or free for Premier members).
3. Economy Plus
- Offers 3 to 6 inches of extra legroom.
- Located near the front of the Economy cabin.
- Comes with Group 3 boarding.
- Costs vary based on flight duration and availability.
- Free for Premier Gold members and above.
4. Premium Plus
- A separate cabin on select long-haul international and transcontinental flights.
- Larger seats, extra legroom, upgraded meals, and additional recline.
- Must be purchased as a fare or upgraded using miles or cash.
5. Business and First Class
- Premium cabins with lie-flat seats on most long-haul flights.
- Includes complimentary meals, beverages, and lounge access.
- Seat selection is free when booking these fare types.
Seat Selection for Basic Economy Tickets
Basic Economy is United’s most budget-friendly fare, but it comes with significant limitations — especially around seat selection.
- Seat selection is not included for free.
- If you don’t pay, United will assign a seat at check-in.
- You may be split from your group.
- Fees for seat selection typically range from $15 to $45 per flight.
Families flying with children should be aware: Basic Economy does not guarantee seats together unless you pay to assign them. United recommends booking early and using the seat map to choose seats for families traveling with kids.
Seat Selection Fees: What to Expect
The cost of selecting a seat on United varies based on:
- Route and destination
- Seat type (standard vs. Economy Plus vs. Premium)
- Time of booking
- Your MileagePlus status
Estimated costs:
- Standard seats: Free (except Basic Economy)
- Preferred seats: ~$10 to $30
- Economy Plus: ~$20 to $200
- Premium cabins: Varies by route and class
You’ll see exact pricing during booking or when modifying your reservation.
Family Seating Policy
United aims to seat children under age 12 next to at least one adult in their travel group — even for Basic Economy tickets. To ensure this:
- Book all tickets together on the same reservation.
- Choose seats early whenever possible.
- United’s system will attempt to assign seats together automatically, but availability isn’t guaranteed for last-minute bookings.
If you’re unable to select seats together, contact United customer service or airport staff for help.
How to Select or Change Your Seat
United makes it easy to choose or update your seat, even after booking:
1. During Booking
- Select your seat from the interactive map.
2. After Booking
- Go to “My Trips” on United.com or the mobile app.
- Enter your confirmation number and last name.
- Modify your seat selection.
3. Mobile App
- Use the United app to view your seat map, change seats, or upgrade.
4. Airport Check-In
- Limited seat changes are possible at kiosks or counters, but availability is reduced close to departure.
Tips for Getting the Best Seat
- Book Early: More seat options are available the earlier you reserve.
- Avoid Basic Economy if you want flexibility in choosing seats or sitting with others.
- Join MileagePlus to earn benefits like free upgrades and better seat access.
- Set Fare Alerts: You may find sales or discounts on Economy Plus or Premium seats.
- Use Seat Maps: Sites like SeatGuru help you find the most comfortable spots on specific aircraft.
Final Thoughts
United Airlines offers a wide range of seat selection options to accommodate every traveler — from those seeking affordability to those who value extra comfort. While Basic Economy comes with limitations, other fare types allow flexible and often free seat selection.
By understanding United Airlines Seat Selection Policy and planning ahead, you can secure the best seat for your travel needs and enjoy a more comfortable journey from takeoff to landing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is seat selection free on United Airlines?
A: Yes, for most fare types (excluding Basic Economy). Upgraded seats may carry fees.
Q: Can I select seats for Basic Economy?
A: Yes, but for an added cost. Otherwise, seats are auto-assigned at check-in.
Q: Can I change my seat after checking in?
A: Yes, depending on availability. Use the app or ask a gate agent.
Q: What happens if I don’t choose a seat?
A: United will assign you one, which may be a middle seat or far from your companions.
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