Requesting and Choosing Window Seats at the Airport
Are you planning to check in for a flight and wish to request a window seat? Yes, you can indeed make this request, but several factors come into play. From the availability of seats during check-in to the specifics of your flight class, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to request a window seat at the airport and what to expect from the process.
Seat Options and Requesting During Check-In
Most airlines allow passengers to select or change their seats through various methods—self-service kiosks at the airport, online check-in 24 hours before the flight, or with a customer service agent at the airport. However, seat availability may vary, and it’s highly recommended to request your preferred seat as early as possible. If the flight is full, finding a window seat might be difficult.
Major airlines in North America and internationally offer different classes of tickets. The cheapest class might restrict seat selection to when you start the check-in process either at the airport or online 24 hours before the flight. In contrast, other classes allow you to choose your seat during the booking stage. Some classes may come with a premium cost for aisle or window seats, with middle seats being the most affordable. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Premium Seats vs. Middle Seats
When you book a ticket, you may have to pay additional charges for premium seats such as aisle or window seats. Middle seats are usually free. Upon arriving to check in, if you haven’t already chosen a seat, your options might be limited, especially during busy travel seasons or for flights that are close to departure.
I recently flew from Germany to the US and specifically requested an aisle seat when checking in because I needed the ability to get up if necessary. After arrival, I received the aisle seat on the entry point of a 747 with no one in front or either side of me. It turned out to be the best seat I have ever had on any plane, a testament to the importance of advance seat selection.
Choosing Seats During Booking
If you haven’t chosen a seat when you book your ticket, you might not have the same freedom to select a seat during check-in. As of the recent past, most flights have been 100% full, leaving little room for optional seat selection.
When you reach the terminal, if your seat isn’t already specified, you’ll be assigned one. While this might result in a window seat, it is not guaranteed, and you might still be required to pay a premium to secure an aisle or window seat.
Seat Selection for Basic Economy and Other Airlines
For Basic Economy class tickets, your seat is typically chosen by the airline, and you might have to pay extra to get a window or aisle seat. On the other hand, airlines like Southwest don’t allow seat selection, and you can pay extra for early check-in or opt for Business Select to board higher up in the process.
When checking in at the airport, make sure to clarify your seat preferences early on. This will give you a better chance of getting your desired seat. Whether you’re flying economy or premium classes, understanding the options and procedures will help you make the best choice for your travel needs.