Why Can't I Always Get My Preferred Airline Seating?
Airlines hold up to 80 percent of all advanced seat assignments for airport check-in. For example, a standard 737 aircraft has approximately 110 coach class seats. If 80 percent of those seats are set aside for airport check-in, there are only 20-22 seats for pre-assignment. Of those, 7 would be aisle seats, 7 would be window seats and 7 would be center seats.
Why Do The Airlines Hold Back Seat Assignments For Airport Check In?
Airlines overbook their flights. If most people holding over-booked reservations show up for departure, the airline wants to control who gets "bumped." As an example, travelers without seat assignments who check-in late for their flight will likely get bumped when flights are over booked. As a result, it is better to have a center seat assignment than no seat assignment at all.
How Does National Travel Ensure That I Get My Preferred Seating?
- We guarantee that we will always attempt to confirm your preferred seat assignment.
- We know your preferences from information provided on your personal profile sheet.
- When seat assignments are not available through our computer, we will call the airline directly to ask that a seat be released.
How Can I Increase My Chances Of Getting My Preferred Seating?
- Book early! This will increase your chances of obtaining one of those few seats available for pre-assignment.
- If your preferred seating was unavailable at the time of reservation, your NTS travel agent can check alternate flights for better seating. Also, the earlier you check-in at the airline ticket counter, the better chance you have of getting a preferred seat.
- Join frequent flyer clubs. The airlines hold back a few seat assignments for club members that have reached premier status.
Please note that seat assignments are not guaranteed. If airlines do equipment changes or schedule changes, this can change or cancel your seat assignments at any time.
For the most up to date information or to book a flight, call a helpful agent at 1-800-6TRAVEL!
