Passengers have a range of rules to follow when selecting their assigned seat, but if they want to switch once on-board – it’s not always the most straight forward.
Paying to select your seat on a plane is a common occurrence. But what if you fancy a change once you’re already settled in the cabin?
If you haven’t paid for seat selection, you’ll either be given a choice from a predetermined list of seats at the time of booking or assigned a random seat. Those wishing to make a last-minute switch may find it challenging as most airlines allow seat changes only up until a certain point before departure, with little leeway once you’re on board.
The temptation to quietly slide into an unoccupied seat can be strong, particularly when the plane isn’t full. However, airline staff enforce strict rules against such changes, and it’s not just about manners or fees.
The main reason is actually related to weight distribution within the aircraft. In simple terms, the plane’s centre of mass needs to be roughly in the middle.
Naturally, passengers move around to use the toilet or stretch their legs, so small wings on the tail help keep the aircraft stable during these minor shifts, reports the Mirror.
easyJet
Budget airline easyJet, for instance, charges a fee to passengers who want to pick their own seat.
easyJet’s seating policy guidelines explain that, “If you’ve not already checked-in you can add or change seats up until two hours before your flight departs by logging in to Manage Bookings. If you’ve already checked-in and want to change your seats you’ll need to contact our customer service team and they will make the changes for you.”
Changing your seat after boarding with easyJet is subject to cabin crew discretion, and it’s worth noting that for safety reasons, most airlines restrict this practice regardless of whether you’ve paid extra for seat selection.
Ryanair
When it comes to Ryanair, the airline also charges customers who opt to select their seats. Passengers have the option to change their seats at the check-in kiosk or online before their flight, even post check-in, while availability persists.
It’s important to keep in mind that although there’s no fee for altering your seat choice, paying the difference for an upgrade, such as moving from Standard to Priority Seating, is necessary.
Moreover, Ryanair is clear in its policy that refunds are not provided for purchased seats, and there may be occasions where passengers are instructed by the cabin crew to change seats.
Jet2
Jet2 passengers are recommended to pre-book their seats if they wish to ensure they sit together. Although seat swapping isn’t expressly prohibited, Jet2 suggests booking early as seats over the aisle or directly in front or behind are considered ‘together’.
For those who don’t pre-book, seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis during check-in, whether online or at the airport.
TUI
On TUI flights, changing your seat after making a reservation is possible under certain terms. TUI’s policy is clear: “Provided there’s availability, then you can change your seats by revisiting our Flight Extras page, provided you’ve not yet checked in online. If you’ve already checked in online, then unfortunately you’ll be unable to change your seats.”
To upgrade, customers should use their TUI account or the Manage My Booking feature on the website.
British Airways
British Airways meanwhile, offers flexibility for passengers desiring to switch their selected seats any time up to the moment of check-in. Seat changes can be managed online or at airport kiosks.
Although not typically recommended onboard, BA acknowledges situations may require seat swaps due to factors such as “A change of aircraft due to operational, safety or security reasons, so we cannot guarantee seating.”
If you’re requested to switch your seat, the airlines will strive to provide a comparable alternative. If you remain unsatisfied, you have the option to request a refund.