How do I choose my seat on Emirates?

Travelling with Emirates ensures a premium flying experience, and choosing the perfect seat can elevate that experience further. Whether you prefer a window view, extra legroom, or sitting next to your travel companion, Emirates Airlines offers flexible seat selection options to meet your needs. This guide explores the process and policies for Emirates Airlines seat selection and provides detailed steps to make the process easy and stress-free.

Understanding Emirates Airlines Seat Selection

Choosing your seat ahead of time not only enhances comfort but also helps you secure your preferred seating arrangement. Here’s what you should know about Emirates’ seat selection policies:

Free vs. Paid Seat Selection

• Economy Class: Passengers can select seats for free during online check-in, which opens 48 hours before departure. For advance seat selection before this window, a fee may apply depending on the seat type and fare category.
• Premium Economy, Business, and First Class: complimentary seat selection is available when booking, ensuring added convenience for premium travellers.

Types of Seats Available

Emirates offers various seating options, including:

• Standard Seats: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
• Preferred Seats: Located at the front of the cabin for quick disembarkation.
• Extra Legroom Seats: For passengers who value space and comfort.
• Twin Seats: Perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for privacy.

Steps for Emirates Airlines Seat Selection

Here’s how to choose your seat on Emirates Airlines, step by step:

During Booking

When booking your flight on the Emirates website or app:

• Enter passenger details and proceed to the seat selection section.
• Choose from the available seats on the seat map.
• Pay any applicable fees for your selected seat (if not complimentary).
• Confirm your booking, and you’ll receive a confirmation email with your seat details.

Post-Booking

If you’ve already booked your flight but didn’t select a seat:

• Visit the Manage Booking section on the Emirates website or app.
• Enter your booking reference and last name.
• Select “Choose Seats” and pick from the available options.
• Pay the seat selection fee (if required) and confirm your changes.

During Online Check-In

If you prefer free seat selection:

• Log in to the Emirates website or app 48 hours before departure.
• Navigate to the online check-in section and select your seat from the available map.
• Complete the check-in process and download your boarding pass.

Benefits of Choosing Your Seat in Advance

Comfort and Convenience

Advance seat selection ensures you get the seat that matches your needs, whether that’s a spacious aisle seat or a quiet corner near the rear.

Traveling with Companions

Ensure you and your travel companions sit together by reserving seats early.

Avoiding Last-Minute Hassles

Waiting until the check-in window may limit seat options, leaving you with less desirable choices.

Policies for Different Fare Types

The cost and availability of seat selection depend on the fare type:

• Special and Saver Fares: Seat selection is chargeable until the check-in window opens.
• Flex and Flex Plus Fares: Complimentary seat selection is often included in these categories.
• Business and First Class Fares: Passengers enjoy full flexibility and complimentary seat selection at any time.

Emirates Skywards Members and Seat Selection

Emirates Skywards members can enjoy additional benefits:

• Silver Members: Complimentary standard seat selection for Economy Class.
• Gold Members: Free preferred seat selection.
• Platinum Members: Enjoy complimentary selection of any seat type, including extra legroom.

Special Considerations for Families and Groups

Traveling with Children

Families with children can benefit from family-friendly seating arrangements, ensuring young travelers are seated with their parents or guardians.

• Emirates automatically assigns seats for families to ensure they are together. However, advanced seat selection is recommended to secure preferred seats.

Group Bookings

For group travelers, Emirates offers customized seat arrangements. Reach out to Emirates customer service for personalized group seating options.

Seat Selection for Special Needs Passengers

Emirates Airlines prioritizes passengers with special needs, providing accessible seating options. Wheelchair users or passengers requiring assistance can contact customer service at 1-860-516-6375 to make arrangements.

Fees for Emirates Airlines Seat Selection

Seat selection fees vary based on the following factors:

• Seat Type: Extra legroom or preferred seats typically cost more.
• Route: Long-haul flights may have higher seat selection charges.
• Travel Class: Economy passengers on lower fare types incur seat selection fees, while premium classes do not.

For exact pricing, refer to the Manage Booking section or contact Emirates customer service.

Tips for Choosing the Best Seat

Know Your Preferences

Do you prefer a window view for scenic flights or an aisle seat for easy access? Determine your priorities before selecting.

Use Seat Maps

Leverage online seat maps to identify the best seats based on your preferences and budget.

Book Early

Seats fill up quickly, especially on popular routes. Early booking ensures the best selection.

FAQs About Emirates Airlines Seat Selection

1. Can I choose my seat for free on Emirates?

Yes, you can select a seat for free during online check-in. However, advance selection may incur fees depending on your fare type.

2. Are seat selection fees refundable?

Seat selection fees are generally non-refundable unless Emirates cancels your flight.

3. What happens if I don’t select a seat?

If you don’t select a seat, Emirates will assign one for you at check-in based on availability.

4. How can I change my seat after selection?

You can change your seat through the Manage Booking section online. Additional fees may apply.

5. Can I reserve extra legroom seats on Emirates?

Yes, extra legroom seats are available for an additional fee. Select these during booking or via the Manage Booking section.

Conclusion

Choosing your seat on Emirates Airlines allows you to customize your travel experience for maximum comfort and convenience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on business, Emirates offers a variety of seating options tailored to your needs. Understanding the Emirates Airlines Seat Selection policy and booking early ensures you get the seat you prefer. For assistance or more information, contact Emirates customer service at 1-860-516-6375.