Seat Selection fees by airline

Last verified: 2026-08-23

Seat fees are airlines selling anxiety. Many preferred seats are not meaningfully better; they are just normal seats priced like a problem-solving tool.

Best for: figuring out whether a seat fee buys real value or only fixes a restrictive fare.

Quick check: If you are going to pay for a seat, re-check inventory at online check-in. Booking-time seat pricing is often the worst moment to buy.

Common way to avoid the fee: Sometimes the right move is not to pay the seat fee. It is to buy out of the restrictive fare or switch airlines before the add-ons pile up.

What to watch: Compare Basic versus non-Basic seat behavior, preferred versus legroom products, and whether seat selection also changes bag entitlement.

Seat-fee pages are most useful when you compare the seat upsell against the stripped fare that created it, so use the Basic Economy guide alongside United, Delta, and American before paying for a seat that may only fix a bad fare choice.

Published fees on this page: 131

Common situations

Preferred does not always mean better

Many carriers price non-legroom seats as if they were a real upgrade simply because they are closer to the front or window/aisle inventory is thin.

Entry fares weaponize seat discomfort

Basic or stripped-down fares use seating uncertainty to push travelers back into paid choices they thought they had avoided.

The right benchmark is all-in comfort cost

A fare that requires paid seat selection to feel tolerable should be compared against the next cabin or a different airline, not judged in isolation.

Airline pages to compare next

Delta Air Lines

Delta is a strong example of premium seat upsell logic hiding inside a polished product.

Fee page Fee guide

United Airlines

United is useful because Basic and Preferred pricing can add seat costs quickly.

Fee page Fee guide

American Airlines

American highlights how preferred and extra-legroom products can blur together for the buyer.

Fee page Fee guide

easyJet

easyJet is a good European comparison because seats and bag access can interact.

Fee page Fee guide

Published fees and sources

Seat Selection fee rows by airline, including amount, route, timing, conditions, source, and last verified date.
Airline	Amount	Applies to	Region / route	Timing	Conditions	Source	Last verified	Next step
Aer Lingus (EI)	From 0 to 20 EUR	Saver fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Aer Lingus (EI)	From 10 to 45 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or front-row seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Aeroméxico (AM)	Depends on fare family, seat type, and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees depend on fare family, seat type, and timing; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air Astana (KC)	Fare, seat, and timing dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees depend on fare family, seat type, and timing; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air Canada (AC)	0 CAD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included on Standard and higher fares; timing and availability depend on fare family	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air Canada (AC)	From 10 to 70 CAD	Basic fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Advance seat selection fee on Basic fares; price varies by route and seat type	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air Canada (AC)	From 25 to 199 CAD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra legroom seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air China (CA)	Route, fare, and seat dependent CNY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air India (AI)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type INR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air New Zealand (NZ)	0 NZD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection included on higher fare families; seat selection opens at check-in for other fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air New Zealand (NZ)	Depends on route and timing NZD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra legroom seats available for a fee; pricing varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
AIX Connect / Air India Express (IX)	Seat type and route dependent INR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection depends on fare family and seat type; lowest fares sell seats separately	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
All Nippon Airways (NH)	0 JPY	Most fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Advance seat selection included for most fares; availability and timing depend on fare type and route	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
All Nippon Airways (NH)	Depends on fare brand and route JPY	Economy (some fares)	International	at booking / manage booking	Preferred seat selection fees may apply on some international Economy fares depending on fare brand and route	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Asiana Airlines (OZ)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type KRW	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Avianca (AV)	0 USD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection included on higher fare families; seat assignment at check-in for other fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Avianca (AV)	Depends on route and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred and extra legroom seats available for a fee; pricing varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Batik Air (ID)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type IDR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Cathay Pacific (CX)	0 HKD	Most fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included for most fares; timing and availability depend on fare family and cabin	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Cathay Pacific (CX)	Depends on route and fare family HKD	Economy (some fares)	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra-legroom seats may incur a fee on some Economy fares depending on route and fare family	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Cebu Pacific (5J)	Depends on seat type, route, and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is optional and chargeable; fees vary by seat type, route, and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
China Airlines (CI)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type TWD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
China Eastern Airlines (MU)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type CNY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
China Southern Airlines (CZ)	Route, fare, and seat dependent CNY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Copa Airlines (CM)	0 USD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection included on higher fare families; seat assignment at check-in for other fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Copa Airlines (CM)	Depends on route and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred seats available for a fee; pricing varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
easyJet (U2)	From 0 to 24.99 GBP	All fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
easyJet (U2)	From 7.99 to 49.99 GBP	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Up Front or Extra Legroom seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
EgyptAir (MS)	Fare, cabin, and seat dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees depend on fare type, cabin class, seat location, and timing; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Emirates (EK)	0 AED	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included for First, Business, Premium Economy, and Flex/Flex Plus Economy; timing and availability vary by fare.	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Emirates (EK)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type AED	Economy (some fares)	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees may apply on some Economy fares (e.g., Special/Saver) depending on route, seat type, and time of selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Ethiopian Airlines (ET)	0 USD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection included on higher fare families; free seat selection also available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Ethiopian Airlines (ET)	Route, timing, and seat dependent USD	Lowest fare families / preferred seats	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees apply on lowest fare families and for preferred seats; pricing varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Etihad Airways (EY)	0 USD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection included on Comfort and Deluxe fares; free seat selection also available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Etihad Airways (EY)	Route, timing, and seat dependent USD	Value fares / preferred seats	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees apply on Value fares and for preferred or extra legroom seats; pricing varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
EVA Air (BR)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type TWD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Garuda Indonesia (GA)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type IDR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Gulf Air (GF)	Fare, seat, and timing dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees apply depending on fare family, seat type, and timing; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Hainan Airlines (HU)	Route, fare, and seat dependent CNY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Hong Kong Airlines (HX)	Depends on route and seat type HKD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Iberia (IB)	0 EUR	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included on Standard, Flex, and premium fares; timing and availability depend on fare brand	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Iberia (IB)	From 6 to 45 EUR	Basic fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fee on Basic fares; amount varies by route, seat type (standard, preferred, extra legroom), and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Iberia Express (I2)	0 EUR	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included on Comfort and Business fares; timing and availability depend on fare	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Iberia Express (I2)	From 6 to 35 EUR	Basic fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fee on Basic fares; amount varies by route, seat type (standard, preferred, extra legroom), and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
IndiGo (6E)	Depends on seat type and route INR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by seat type and route; free seat assignment available at check-in	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Japan Airlines (JL)	0 JPY	Most fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Advance seat selection included for most fares; availability and timing depend on fare type and route	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Japan Airlines (JL)	Depends on fare brand and route JPY	Economy (some fares)	International	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra-legroom seat fees may apply on some international Economy fares depending on fare brand and route	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jet2.com (LS)	From 0 to 12 GBP	All fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jet2.com (LS)	From 10 to 25 GBP	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or front-row seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jetstar (JQ)	From 5 to 25 AUD	Starter fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jetstar (JQ)	From 15 to 65 AUD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or upfront seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jetstar Japan (GK)	From 500 to 1,500 JPY	Starter fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jetstar Japan (GK)	From 1,200 to 3,500 JPY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or upfront seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Kenya Airways (KQ)	Fare, cabin, and seat dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees depend on fare family, cabin class, seat type, and timing; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL)	Depends on route, fare, seat, and timing EUR	All fares (restrictions apply on Light)	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Seat fees vary by seat type, route, fare, and timing. Economy Light requires paid seats until check-in opens.	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL)	0 EUR	Eligible passengers / fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seats are free for Flex fares, Flying Blue Elite members, reduced-mobility passengers, and children traveling alone.	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Korean Air (KE)	0 KRW	Most fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included for most fares; timing and availability depend on fare family and cabin	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Korean Air (KE)	Depends on route and fare family KRW	Economy (some fares)	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra-legroom seats may incur a fee on some Economy fares depending on route and fare family	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
LATAM Airlines (LA)	0 USD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included on Plus, Top, and Premium fares; timing and availability depend on fare family	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
LATAM Airlines (LA)	Depends on route, seat type, and timing USD	Light fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees apply on Light fares; amount varies by route, seat type, and time of selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Malaysia Airlines (MH)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type MYR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Norwegian (DY)	From 0 to 20 EUR	LowFare	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Norwegian (DY)	From 10 to 45 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or front-row seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Oman Air (WY)	Fare and seat dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees depend on fare family and seat type; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Philippine Airlines (PR)	Route, fare, and seat dependent PHP	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Qantas Airways (QF)	From 0 to 64 USD	Qantas-operated flights where seat selection is chargeable	International / domestic	after booking / manage booking / check-in	Standard seat fee by route on or after July 1, 2026; complimentary in listed domestic, fare, cabin, status, and check-in cases	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Qantas Airways (QF)	From 16 to 328 USD	Paid seat products	International / domestic	after booking / manage booking	Economy Plus, extra legroom, bassinet, or forward seat fee by route on or after July 1, 2026	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Qatar Airways (QR)	0 QAR	Most fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included for most fares; timing and availability depend on fare family and cabin	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Qatar Airways (QR)	Depends on route and fare family QAR	Economy (some fares)	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra-legroom seats may incur a fee on some Economy fares depending on route and fare family	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Royal Air Maroc (AT)	Fare, seat, and timing dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees depend on fare family, seat type, and timing; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Ryanair (FR)	From 0 to 35 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Reserved seats vary by route/date; free random seat exists, while family seating rules can affect adult seat choice	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Ryanair (FR)	From 8 to 45 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or front-row seats cost more and vary by route, timing, and family-seat constraints	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) (SV)	0 USD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection included on higher fare families; free seat selection also available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) (SV)	Depends on route and timing USD	Lowest fare families / preferred seats	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees apply on lowest fare families and for preferred or extra legroom seats; pricing varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Singapore Airlines (SQ)	0 SGD	Most fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included for most fares; timing and availability depend on fare family and cabin	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Singapore Airlines (SQ)	Depends on route and fare family SGD	Economy (some fares)	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra-legroom seats may incur a fee on some Economy fares depending on route and fare family	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
South African Airways (SA)	Fare, cabin, and seat dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees depend on fare family, cabin class, seat type, and timing; some fares include standard seat selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
SpiceJet (SG)	Depends on seat type and route INR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is optional and chargeable; fees vary by seat type and route	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Spring Airlines (9C)	Seat type and route dependent CNY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is optional and chargeable; fees vary by seat type and route	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
SriLankan Airlines (UL)	Route, fare, and seat dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
TAP Air Portugal (TP)	0 EUR	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included on Classic/Plus and premium fares; timing and availability depend on fare family	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
TAP Air Portugal (TP)	From 6 to 45 EUR	Discount fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees apply on Discount fares; amount varies by route, seat type, and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Thai Airways (TG)	Route, fare, and seat dependent THB	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Turkish Airlines (TK)	0 USD	Most fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included for most fares; timing and availability depend on fare family and cabin	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Turkish Airlines (TK)	Depends on route, seat type, and timing USD	Economy (some fares)	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees may apply on some Economy fares depending on route, seat type, and time of selection	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
VietJet Air (VJ)	Depends on seat type, route, and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is optional and chargeable; prices vary by seat type, route, and selection timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Vietnam Airlines (VN)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type VND	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Virgin Australia (VA)	0 AUD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included on Choice, Flex, and Business fares; availability may vary	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Virgin Australia (VA)	Depends on seat type and route AUD	Lite fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection fees apply on Lite fares; amount varies by seat type and route	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Vistara (UK)	0 INR	Historical Vistara / current Air India-managed AI 2XXX context	Former Vistara network	archival; current travel uses Air India policy	Archival Vistara seating only; current seating is managed through Air India booking channels	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Vistara (UK)	Use current Air India policy INR	Historical Vistara / current Air India-managed AI 2XXX context	Former Vistara network	archival; current travel uses Air India policy	Old Vistara preferred-seat fees are archival; current AI 2XXX seating depends on Air India fare and seat rules	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Viva Aerobus (VB)	Depends on seat type, route, and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection depends on bundle: Smart includes regular/front-row selection, while lower bundles can pay by seat type	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Volaris (Y4)	Depends on seat type, fare bundle, route, and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection cost depends on fare, seat type, route, and whether a bundle such as More Speed includes standard seats	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Vueling (VY)	From 0 to 24 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Vueling (VY)	From 8 to 45 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Front row or extra legroom seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
WestJet (WS)	0 CAD	Eligible fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seat selection included on EconoFlex, Premium, and Business fares; timing and availability depend on fare	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
WestJet (WS)	From 10 to 60 CAD	Econo fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Advance seat selection fee on Econo fares; price varies by route and seat type	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
WestJet (WS)	From 30 to 199 CAD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Preferred or extra legroom seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Wizz Air (W6)	From 0 to 30 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Wizz Air (W6)	From 10 to 50 EUR	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or front-row seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
XiamenAir (MF)	Route, fare, and seat dependent CNY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat selection fees vary by route, fare family, and seat type; free seat assignment available at check-in for eligible fares	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
ZIPAIR Tokyo (ZG)	Seat type and timing dependent JPY	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is paid unless included in an eligible package such as Flex Biz; prices vary by route and seat type	Source	2026-08-23	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Scoot (TR)	Depends on seat type, fare bundle, and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is included in Value/Flex and ScootPlus, but Basic pays if choosing a seat in advance	Source	2026-08-22	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Frontier Airlines (F9)	Shown during booking USD	Basic fare	All routes	at booking / manage trip / check-in	Basic fare does not include a seat assignment; paid seat selection varies by flight and seat type	Source	2026-08-21	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Frontier Airlines (F9)	0 USD	Basic fare	All routes	check-in	Random seat assignment if no seat is purchased	Source	2026-08-21	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Frontier Airlines (F9)	0 USD	Economy bundle	All routes	at booking / manage trip	Standard seat selection included with Economy bundle	Source	2026-08-21	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Frontier Airlines (F9)	0 USD	Premium bundle	All routes	at booking / manage trip	Premium seat selection included with Premium bundle	Source	2026-08-21	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Frontier Airlines (F9)	0 USD	Business bundle	All routes	at booking / manage trip	Seat selection included for any available seat with Business bundle	Source	2026-08-21	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air France (AF)	Depends on route, fare, and seat type EUR	All fares (Economy Light has restrictions)	All routes	at booking / manage booking / check-in	Advance seat price varies by destination, dates, and fare. Economy Light has paid seats until check-in closes; otherwise auto-assigned.	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Air France (AF)	0 EUR	Eligible passengers / fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Standard seats are free for Flying Blue Silver/Gold/Platinum, reduced-mobility passengers, unaccompanied children, and Flex fares.	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
AirAsia (AK)	Depends on seat type, route, and timing USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is optional and chargeable; fees vary by seat type, route, and timing	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
British Airways (BA)	0 GBP	Premium cabins	All routes	at booking	Seat selection included from time of booking for First, Club World, Club Europe, and Club Europe Plus fares	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
British Airways (BA)	Depends on route, seat type, and timing GBP	Economy (some fares)	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Advance seat selection fee applies on some Economy fares; pricing varies by route, seat type, and time of selection	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
British Airways (BA)	0 GBP	Eligible fares	All routes	check-in	Free seat selection available at check-in (24 hours before departure) on eligible fares	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
flydubai (FZ)	Seat type and route dependent USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Seat selection is chargeable on Economy fares; included with Business Class; fees vary by seat type and route	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jetstar Asia (3K)	From 5 to 28 SGD	Starter fares	All routes	at booking / check-in	Standard seat selection; free random seat assigned at check-in if not purchased	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Jetstar Asia (3K)	From 18 to 70 SGD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage booking	Extra legroom or upfront seats; price varies by route and timing	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Lufthansa (LH)	Depends on fare, route, and status EUR	Most fares	All routes (varies)	at booking / manage booking	Advance seat fees may apply by fare, route, and status; Economy Light and eligible status-member rules can differ.	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Southwest Airlines (WN)	0 USD	Basic Fare	All routes	check-in / boarding	No seat selection with Basic; standard seat assigned at check-in from Jan. 27, 2026	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Southwest Airlines (WN)	Depends on flight and seat type USD	All fares	All routes	per segment	Paid seat upgrades (for flights departing on or after January 27, 2026)	Source	2025-12-24	Basic fare risk Fee guide
American Airlines (AA)	$4-$139 published range USD	Main Cabin	All routes	per segment	Preferred seat pricing varies by flight; published range approximately $4–$139	Source	2025-12-22	Basic fare risk Fee guide
American Airlines (AA)	$20-$280 published range USD	Main Cabin	All routes	per segment	Main Cabin Extra pricing varies by flight; published range approximately $20–$280	Source	2025-12-22	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Delta Air Lines (DL)	Depends on flight and seat type USD	Main Cabin	All routes	per segment	Preferred seat pricing varies by flight	Source	2025-12-22	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Alaska Airlines (AS)	0 USD	Main Cabin	All routes	at booking / manage trip	Standard seat selection included; preferred seating may cost extra	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide
Alaska Airlines (AS)	Depends on flight and seat type USD	Main Cabin	All routes	at booking / manage trip	Preferred seats; fee varies by flight	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide
JetBlue (B6)	0 USD	Blue / Blue Plus / Blue Extra	All routes	at booking	Standard seat selection included	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide
JetBlue (B6)	Depends on flight and seat type USD	All fares	All routes	at booking / manage trip	Even More Space seats; fee varies by flight	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide
United Airlines (UA)	15 USD	Basic Economy	Route and seat map dependent	at booking / manage trip	Advance seat assignment (starting price)	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide
United Airlines (UA)	$29-$299 published range USD	Economy	Route and seat map dependent	at booking / manage trip	Economy Plus seating (per flight, per person); published range $29–$299	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide
United Airlines (UA)	24 USD	Economy (non-Basic)	Route and seat map dependent	at booking / manage trip	Preferred seating (starting price)	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide
United Airlines (UA)	136 USD	Basic Economy	Route and seat map dependent	at booking / manage trip	Preferred seating (starting price)	Source	2025-12-19	Basic fare risk Fee guide

The Next step column moves from the fee row into the relevant calculator or airline-specific guide. For checked baggage, Price bags estimates the cash bill and Card break-even tests whether repeat first-bag fees can justify an eligible card on bag savings alone. For carry-on and seat rows, the next question is usually whether the fare restriction changes the real trip cost.

Related references

After checking seat fees, compare the airline page and the fare guide, because seat pricing rarely exists in isolation.

Basic Economy guide

Best when Basic restrictions are what make seat fees feel unavoidable.

Checked-bag cost calculator

Price bags too if the paid seat is only one part of the cheapest-fare add-on total.

Sizer rules

If the traveler is paying to avoid discomfort, it often helps to also inspect whether they are carrying the wrong bag for that airline.