Do I Have To Select A Seat On United Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Fancy Fly USA

Are you planning to fly with United Airlines soon? If so, you may be wondering if you need to select a seat for your flight. While it is not required, selecting a seat can provide a number of benefits and make your travel experience more comfortable.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why selecting a seat on United Airlines is a good idea. From ensuring you have enough legroom to being seated with your travel companions, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your flight with United Airlines. So, let’s dive in!

Do I Have to Select a Seat on United Airlines?

Do I Have to Select a Seat on United Airlines?

1. United Airlines’ Seat Selection Policy

United Airlines allows passengers to select their seats during the booking process or at any time up to 24 hours before the flight’s scheduled departure. However, if a passenger fails to select a seat, United Airlines will automatically assign them a seat at check-in based on availability.

It’s important to note that United Airlines’ seat selection policy varies depending on the type of ticket purchased. For example, Basic Economy passengers can only select a seat at check-in, while Economy and higher fare class passengers can select a seat at the time of booking.

2. Benefits of Selecting a Seat on United Airlines

There are numerous benefits to selecting a seat on United Airlines. Firstly, it allows passengers to choose their preferred seat location, such as a window or aisle seat. It also ensures that families or groups can sit together on the flight.

Additionally, certain seats on United Airlines come with extra legroom or other amenities, such as in-seat power outlets or entertainment screens. By selecting a seat, passengers can ensure they get the best possible experience on their flight.

3. How to Select a Seat on United Airlines

To select a seat on United Airlines, passengers can do so during the booking process or by logging into their booking on the United Airlines website. Alternatively, passengers can select a seat at check-in or by calling United Airlines’ customer service.

If a passenger has already selected a seat but wishes to change it, they can do so by logging into their booking or by calling United Airlines’ customer service. However, some seats may incur an additional fee to select or change.

4. United Airlines’ Seat Selection Fees

United Airlines charges fees for seat selection on some of its flights. These fees vary depending on the route, fare class, and seat type. For example, some of the airline’s premium seats, such as Economy Plus and United First, may come with an additional fee for seat selection.

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It’s important for passengers to check the seat selection fee policy for their specific flight before selecting a seat to avoid any unexpected charges.

5. Seat Selection vs. Automatic Assignment on United Airlines

While United Airlines does offer automatic seat assignment for passengers who do not select a seat, there are some benefits to selecting a seat in advance.

By selecting a seat, passengers can ensure they get the best possible seat location, as well as any additional amenities that may come with certain seats. It also ensures that families or groups can sit together on the flight.

6. United Airlines’ Premium Seat Options

United Airlines offers several premium seat options on its flights. These include Economy Plus, United First, and United Polaris Business Class.

Economy Plus seats offer additional legroom, while United First and United Polaris Business Class come with even more amenities, such as lie-flat seats, premium meals, and access to airport lounges.

Seat Type Amenities Fee (Varies by Route)
Economy Plus Extra Legroom Varies
United First Lie-Flat Seats, Premium Meals, Lounge Access Varies
United Polaris Business Class Lie-Flat Seats, Premium Meals, Lounge Access Varies

7. Exceptions to United Airlines’ Seat Selection Policy

There are some exceptions to United Airlines’ seat selection policy. For example, passengers with disabilities or medical conditions may be able to request a specific seat type or location.

Additionally, passengers traveling with infants or small children may be able to request a bassinet or specific seat types to accommodate their needs.

8. Tips for Selecting the Best Seat on United Airlines

To ensure the best possible flight experience, there are some tips for selecting the best seat on United Airlines. Firstly, passengers should consider their seat location preferences, such as a window or aisle seat, and any specific amenities they may want, such as extra legroom or an in-seat entertainment screen.

Passengers should also consider the duration of their flight and any potential layovers or connections, as certain seats may be more comfortable for longer flights or offer easy access to connecting gates.

9. Conclusion

While United Airlines does not require passengers to select a seat, there are many benefits to doing so. By selecting a seat, passengers can ensure they get the best possible seat location and any additional amenities that come with certain seats. It also ensures that families or groups can sit together on the flight.

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10. Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I have to pay a fee to select a seat on United Airlines?
  • Can I change my seat after I’ve already selected one?
  • What are United Airlines’ premium seat options?
  • Can I request a specific seat type or location for medical or disability reasons?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose not to select a seat on United Airlines?

United Airlines allows passengers to choose not to select a seat. However, it is highly recommended that you select a seat to ensure that you get the seat and location you prefer. If you do not select a seat, United Airlines will automatically assign you a seat at check-in.

It is important to note that if you do not select a seat, you may not get the seat you prefer, and you may be separated from your travel companions. Additionally, if you are traveling with a group, it may be more difficult to get seats together if you do not select them in advance.

How do I select a seat on United Airlines?

You can select a seat on United Airlines during the booking process or after you have booked your flight. To select a seat during booking, you will need to click on the “Choose Seats” option during the booking process. If you have already booked your flight, you can select a seat by logging into your United Airlines account and clicking on the “Manage Reservations” option.

Alternatively, you can also select a seat by contacting United Airlines customer service or by checking in online and selecting a seat at that time.

Is there a fee to select a seat on United Airlines?

United Airlines offers several fare options, and the fees for selecting a seat may vary based on the fare class you have booked. Basic Economy fares do not allow for seat selection at booking, but you can select a seat for an additional fee during check-in. Other fare classes, such as Economy, may allow for free seat selection at booking or may require an additional fee for advanced seat selection.

If you are a United Airlines MileagePlus Premier member or have a United Airlines credit card, you may be eligible for complimentary seat selection or discounted fees.

Can I change my seat selection on United Airlines?

Yes, you can change your seat selection on United Airlines. You can change your seat selection by logging into your United Airlines account and clicking on the “Manage Reservations” option. From there, you can select a new seat based on availability.

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It is important to note that changing your seat selection may result in a different fee, depending on the fare class you have booked. Additionally, if you have already checked in for your flight, you may not be able to change your seat selection online and may need to contact United Airlines customer service.

What if I don’t like my seat on United Airlines?

If you do not like your seat on United Airlines, you can try to change it. You can change your seat selection by logging into your United Airlines account and clicking on the “Manage Reservations” option. From there, you can select a new seat based on availability.

If there are no other seats available, you can try to request a different seat from a gate agent at the airport. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that you will be able to change your seat, especially if the flight is full or there are limited seats available in your preferred location.

How to check in & select seats on United Airlines


In conclusion, selecting a seat on United Airlines is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. By selecting a seat, you can ensure that you have a comfortable and stress-free flight. You can choose a seat that suits your preferences and needs, such as a window or aisle seat or a seat with extra legroom. Additionally, by selecting a seat, you can avoid the hassle of trying to find an available seat at the last minute or being assigned one randomly.

However, if you do not select a seat, United Airlines will assign one to you at check-in. This means that you may not get the seat that you want or that you may be separated from your travel companions. Additionally, you may have to pay extra fees for certain seats, such as premium economy or business class seats.

Ultimately, the decision to select a seat on United Airlines is up to you. But if you want to have the best possible flight experience, we recommend that you take advantage of this option. By selecting a seat, you can ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable flight from start to finish.

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