How To Select Seats On American Airlines?

When you book a flight, one of the most important things is choosing the seat where you want to sit. Whether you like the window view, an aisle seat, or sitting close to the front, American Airlines gives you many options to select your seat.

In this article, we’ll explain how to select seats on American Airlines in very simple and easy words. You will also learn when seat selection is free and when you may have to pay extra.

Why Seat Selection Matters

Everyone has a different comfort level while flying. Some people like window seats to enjoy the view, others prefer aisle seats to move around easily. Some want to sit with family or friends. That’s why selecting your seat early is a good idea.

When Can You Choose Your Seat?

American Airlines allows you to choose your seat at three different times:

1. During booking

2. After booking through “Manage Trips”

3. During online check-in

Let’s understand each one.

1. Selecting Your Seat While Booking

When you book your flight on the American Airlines website or app, you will be asked to choose your seat after entering your flight and passenger details.

Here’s how:

• Go to www.aa.com

• Enter your travel details (from where to where, dates, passengers)

• Choose your flight

• On the seat map page, select the seat you want

• Confirm and continue to payment (if there's a seat fee)

Some seats are free, especially for main cabins and higher-fare types. But if you're flying Basic Economy, you may need to pay extra to select a seat.

2. Selecting Your Seat After Booking

If you didn’t choose a seat during booking, don’t worry. You can do it later by visiting the “Manage Trips” section on the website or app.

Steps:

• Visit www.aa.com and click on “Manage Trips.”

• Enter your booking reference and last name

• Select your flight

• Click “Choose Seats”

• Pick your preferred seat from the seat map

• Pay if required, and confirm your seat

This is useful if you booked your flight through a travel agency or forgot to select your seat earlier.

3. Choosing a Seat During Check-in

You can also select your seat during online check-in, which opens 24 hours before the flight.

Steps:

• Open the American Airlines app or website

• Click on “Check-in.”

• Enter your booking details

• View the seat map

• Select your seat and confirm

Some seats may be limited, especially for Basic Economy, so it's better to choose earlier if possible.

Is There a Fee to Choose Seats?

It depends on your ticket type and the seat location:

• Main Cabin: Standard seats are usually free.

• Basic Economy: You may need to pay extra for seat selection.

• Preferred and Extra Legroom Seats: These cost more.

• First Class or Business: Seat selection is free and included.

Seat fees can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the flight and seat type.

Can Families Sit Together?

Yes, American Airlines tries to seat families with children together, even if you didn’t pay for seat selection. But the best way to ensure that you all sit together is to choose seats in advance, especially during busy seasons.

Can You Change Your Seat After Booking?

Yes! You can change your seat any time before your flight:

• Go to “Manage Trips.”

• Select your flight

• Click on “Change Seat.”

• Choose a new seat from the map

• Confirm changes

If the new seat is more expensive, you’ll have to pay the difference.

Tips for Choosing the Best Seat

Here are some simple tips to help you pick the best seat:

• Window seat: Great for enjoying the view or sleeping

• Aisle seat: Easy to move around and access the restroom

• Front rows: Quicker boarding and faster exit after landing

• Over the wing: Smoother ride during turbulence

• Exit row/extra legroom: More space, but often costs more

What Happens If You Don’t Select a Seat?

If you don’t choose a seat, American Airlines will assign one automatically during check-in. If you're traveling with others, you may not be seated together unless you choose seats in advance.

Final Words

Selecting a seat on American Airlines is very easy. You can do it during booking, later using “Manage Trips,” or at check-in. While many seats are free, some premium spots may cost extra, especially if you’re flying Basic Economy.

To have a comfortable flight and sit where you want, it’s always a good idea to pick your seat early.

So next time you book a flight, don’t forget to check the seat map and grab your favorite spot!