• Admin
• January 15, 2026

What Airline Includes Free Seat Selection on Low Fares?

Seat selection is one of those things travellers assume is simple — until it suddenly costs money. You book a cheap ticket, reach the seat map, and realise that even a basic window seat now comes with a fee.

The truth is, airlines handle seat selection very differently on low fares. Some remove it completely, some delay it, and a few still include it quietly. Knowing the difference can save you money — and frustration — especially on long flights.

Here’s how seat selection really works on low fares with major international airlines.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is often seen as a premium airline, so many travellers expect seat selection to be included. On low fares, that is only partly true.

When you book a cheaper economy ticket, Qatar Airways will usually show seat prices during booking. This makes it feel like paying is the only option. It isn’t. If you’re willing to wait, the rules change closer to departure.

How seat selection works:

• Free seat selection is not included at booking on low fares
• Standard seats become free once online check-in opens
• Online check-in usually opens 48 hours before departure
• Extra-legroom, exit-row, and preferred seats always cost extra

If you check in early, you can usually choose a regular seat without paying.

Japan Airlines (JAL)

Japan Airlines does things the old-fashioned way — and travellers benefit from it.

Even on discounted economy fares, JAL does not aggressively charge for seat selection. Instead, it treats seat choice as part of the basic flying experience, not an add-on.

How seat selection works:

• Free standard seat selection is included on most economy fares
• Seat choice is available soon after booking
• Seats can be changed later without extra charges
• Only extra-legroom or special seats may cost more

If choosing your seat early matters to you, JAL is one of the safest airlines to book.

Air India

Air India follows a more rigid approach to seat selection, especially on low fares.

When booking an economy ticket, passengers are usually asked to pay for seat selection if they want control over where they sit. Skipping this step means giving up choice later.

How seat selection works:

• Seat selection is paid on most low economy fares
• Aisle and window seats usually cost extra
• If no seat is selected, one is assigned automatically at check-in
• Automatic assignment does not guarantee seat preference

With Air India, free seat assignment exists — free seat selection does not.

British Airways

British Airways sits somewhere in the middle. It charges for seat selection early but relaxes the rules closer to departure.

At booking, low fares clearly show seat selection as a paid option. Many travellers assume that means paying is unavoidable. In reality, waiting can work in your favour.

How seat selection works:

• Advance seat selection is paid on low fares
• Free standard seat selection opens at online check-in
• Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure
• Seat choice depends on what is still available

If you are flexible and quick at check-in, you can avoid the extra fee.

Emirates

Emirates uses a fare-based system that changes how seat selection works depending on how much you paid.

On cheaper economy fares, seat selection is treated as an optional extra early on. But Emirates does not block passengers from choosing a seat forever — it simply delays access.

How seat selection works:

• Higher economy fares include free seat selection at booking
• Lower fares charge for advance seat selection
• Standard seats are usually free during online check-in
• Online check-in opens 48 hours before departure

If you wait until check-in, you often get a seat without paying.

Final Words

Knowing when to pick your seat and which ones are included can save you from paying extra and keep you comfortable on long flights. That little timing trick can make a big difference.

And if you’re looking for cheap flights to India from Canada or the USA, Surffares makes it super easy to find the best deals and book in just a few clicks. 

Check them out at surffares.com and make your next trip to India hassle-free and affordable.

Common Questions About Seat Selection on Low Fares

Q: Can I always pick a window or aisle seat for free?

A: Not always. Free seat selection usually applies only to standard economy seats. If you’re eyeing extra-legroom, exit rows, or premium spots, those usually come with an extra fee.

Q: When’s the best time to grab a free seat?

A: Right when online check-in opens — usually 24–48 hours before your flight. The sooner you check in, the better your chances of snagging your favourite spot.

Q: Can I change my seat after booking without paying?

A: Most airlines let you switch seats for free as long as it’s a standard seat. Want extra legroom or a premium option? That’ll still cost extra.

Q: Do cheap fares ever include free seat selection at booking?

A: Rarely. Japan Airlines is one of the few that often lets you pick early. Most airlines only let you choose for free during online check-in.

Q: What if I don’t pick a seat at all?

A: The airline will usually assign you a standard seat during check-in. It might not be your ideal window or aisle, but you’ll have a spot.

Q: Can I secure seats for a group without paying extra?

A: Sometimes. If everyone checks in online as soon as the window opens, it can work. Just be prepared to be flexible with exactly where you sit.

Q: Does frequent flyer status help with free seat selection?

A: On some airlines, yes. Elite members can sometimes pick standard or even preferred seats early, even on low fares.

Q: Any tricks to get better seats for free?

A: A few simple ones: check in online as early as possible, use the airline’s app, travel in smaller groups, and stick to standard seats — that’s where free selection works best.