• 14 Nov, 2025
  • Travel tips

Guide to United Airlines Seat Selection Policy

United Airlines' seat selection allows passengers to choose the seat they prefer for their flight. This way, passengers can have a more personalized experience, with a comfortable travel experience after choosing a specific seat. United Airlines' seat selection is available for most fare classes, allowing for effortless seat selection. However, the airline adheres to united airlines seat selection policy, a set of rules and guidelines for its seat selection process. To understand these rules, consider going through the subsequent sections of the article to know the policy, procedure, and more about United Airlines' seat selection. 

United Airlines Seat Selection Policy

United Airlines follows a set of rules and guidelines for seat selection, which outline the basic conditions and criteria for selecting a seat. Adhering to the policy is critical, as complete compliance with these rules would allow them to request a flight through their preferred seats. Though the seat selection policy of United Airlines is comprehensive, it has been broken down into pointers below:

  • United Airlines allows its passengers to select a seat for most fare classes, enabling them to choose their preferred seats either during booking or at check-in. 
  • If passengers are traveling in basic economy, their tickets will not be eligible for seat selection; however, they may upgrade their seats to a higher class. 
  • For preffered seatings, United Airlines will charge a fee for preferred seat assignment. However, assignments are still not guaranteed, as seats may get swapped for operational needs. 
  • If flights are cancelled, refunds will be initiated automatically to the source used for making the purchase. Seats are non-refundable unless the flight is cancelled before the trip.
  • When traveling with children under 12, the airline will assign a seat for an adult family member beside them at no additional united airlines seat selection fee. 
  • The applied charges may vary depending on various travel-related factors, such as the time of request, fare type, and destination. 

United Airlines Available Seating Options

Passengers are generally offered two special seating areas, in addition to the standard seat selection. Each united airlines seat selection option offers different perks and benefits, allowing passengers to choose the one that best suits their preferences. Additionally, there are specific requirements for certain seats that must be met for a hassle-free experience. Below, both seating options will be discussed: 

  • Exit Rows: United Airlines exit row seats are located in Economy Plus or United Economy, offering additional legroom, enabling more space to stretch your legs. However, the airline has decided that passengers must be at least 15 years old and physically capable of offering assistance in any emergency. 
  • Bulkhead: United Airlines bulkhead seats are located facing a fixed wall, offering additional legroom that enables passengers to stretch out correctly. However, there is no under-seat storage and fixed armrests. Yet, these seat options are considered ideal for passengers traveling with family and infants. 

United Airlines Seat Selection Process

Seats can be selected either when booking with United Airlines or during check-in for your flights. For the convenience of passengers, both of the seat selection methods will be discussed below, along with a step-by-step guide for each method. Hence, explore the pointers, understand each process, and opt for the one that suits you the best:

United Airlines Seat Selection during Booking

  • Through the Website: To select your preferred seat, choose it during the reservation process on the airline's official website. The website enables passengers to find a suitable flight based on their provided details and customize their itinerary as needed. Additionally, passengers can also pick their preferred seat during this booking procedure:
    • Head to the United Airlines' official website at 'www.united.com.' 
    • The flight booking will be pre-selected, where essential details must be provided. 
    • Enter all the vital information in their designated blanks, and click on 'Find flights.'
    • Select the flight that suits you best and customize your itinerary according to your needs. 
    • On the payment page, you can select your preferred seat and then settle the payment through your preferred channel. 
    • Upon confirmation, the airline will notify you through email or sms. 
  • Over the phone: Bookings can also be made over the phone, and this can be done at any hour, as the helpdesk remains available 24/7. Passengers are only required to make a phone call at 1-800-323-0170. By calling, passengers can conveniently connect with a representative and request their preferred seat. For a better understanding, go through the pointers below:
    • To reach United Airlines' customer service, call 1-800-323-0170. 
    • Press the keys accordingly and wait in the holding queue till your agent is busy. '
    • Once connected, make your booking requests and select your preferred seats. 

United Airlines Seat Selection during Check-in

  • Through Checking in: Passengers can also conveniently select the seat they wish to travel in; the process can be done either through the official website or at the airport. Specifically, we will examine the check-in procedure through the official United Airlines website. Hence, follow the pointers below and understand the procedure:
    • Browse 'www.united.com' and visit the official website of United Airlines. 
    • Click on 'Check-in' next to the flight status, and enter your booking details. 
    • After entering your details, click on 'Search' to retrieve the booking information. 
    • Select the seating options and follow the further procedure. 
  • Airport Check-in: Another method of checking in is at the airport, where passengers can visit the United Airlines counter and make the request. The process is more straightforward, as a representative is present to assist you throughout. Thus, follow the procedure simplified through the pointers below:
    • Arrive at the airport and locate the United Airlines counter. 
    • Get in the queue and wait for your turn. 
    • At your turn, ask the representatives to assign you a seat according to your preference. 
    • The agent might charge you a fee based on your destination, fare type, and remaining time. 

Conclusion 

United Airlines' seat selection offers passengers the convenience of selecting the seat they wish to travel in. However, passengers might find it challenging, which is why the article discusses the policy, seating options, and all the ways through which seat selection can be made. Additionally, each method has been described in a step-by-step guide, providing a clearer understanding of each approach. Hence, United Airlines travelers shall refer to the article for better convenience.