Ruth Haines
Paying for seat selection is a common practice among airlines, with some passengers willing to pay extra for aisle seats. While it is not possible to pay for aisle seats at the airport, many airlines allow passengers to choose their seats in advance for an additional fee. This practice, known as drip pricing, can be misleading, as it suggests that selecting a seat and paying the accompanying fee is mandatory. However, passengers who do not select a seat will still be assigned one at check-in or at the gate. While some passengers prefer aisle seats for the freedom to move around and ease of access, others may opt for window or middle seats. Ultimately, the decision to pay extra for an aisle seat depends on individual preferences and the length of the flight.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paying extra for aisle seats | Possible in some airlines like Finnair, Air India, Norse Atlantic Airways, Ryanair, British Airways, American Airlines, etc. |
| Reasons for paying extra | Claustrophobia, need for freedom to move around, longer flights, etc. |
| Cost | Varies from $20 to $100 |
| Avoiding extra charges | Choosing an airline with limited seat fees like Alaska, Hawaiian or JetBlue, skipping seat selection, etc. |
| Other options | Buying an extra ticket to keep the seat next to you free, choosing seats in advance, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Claustrophobia and personal space
Claustrophobia is an intense and irrational fear of confined or crowded spaces. It is a common phobia, with approximately 4% of the population experiencing severe claustrophobia, and many more showing slight symptoms. People with claustrophobia may experience panic attacks when in enclosed spaces, such as crowded elevators or tunnels.
The development of claustrophobia is often linked to environmental factors, with many individuals developing the phobia during childhood or teenage years. For some, it may be a result of a traumatic event, such as being trapped in a tight space for an extended period. Genetics may also play a role, as children of claustrophobic parents are more likely to develop the phobia themselves.
Research has found a link between claustrophobia and an individual's sense of personal space. People with a larger sense of personal space, or "near space", tend to experience greater claustrophobic fear. This may be due to a distortion in spatial perception, causing them to perceive objects as being too close.
For individuals with claustrophobia, the idea of being confined in a small space, such as an airplane seat, can be triggering. The feeling of being "trapped" and unable to move freely can cause anxiety and panic. As a result, some people may opt to pay extra for an aisle seat on an airplane, providing them with more space and the ability to get up without bothering others.
Aisle seats offer a sense of freedom and flexibility, allowing passengers to stretch their arms or legs and move around more easily. For those with claustrophobia, this extra space can make a significant difference in their comfort and peace of mind during a flight. While some airlines may charge extra for aisle seats, especially on larger planes, the ability to choose one's seat can be a valuable option for individuals managing claustrophobia.
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Cost of aisle seats
The cost of aisle seats varies depending on the airline and the specific flight. Some airlines charge extra for aisle seats, while others charge for reserved seats, which include a significant portion of aisle seats. In some cases, the cost of choosing a seat in advance varies based on the desirability of the seat's location.
For example, on Finnair flights between New York and Helsinki, aisle seats can cost around $100. On Air India, an aisle seat may cost around $50, while on Norse Atlantic Airways, a similar seat can be as low as $20. On other airlines, such as Ryanair, passengers may be asked to switch their aisle seats to accommodate couples or families, potentially resulting in a different seat type without any additional cost.
Some travellers are willing to pay extra for aisle seats due to the perceived benefits, such as increased freedom of movement, reduced claustrophobia, and the ability to stretch their arms and legs. However, others view seat assignment fees as an unnecessary expense and a money-grab by airlines. To minimise costs, travellers can consider using airline fee credits or choosing airlines that do not charge seat selection fees, such as Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Virgin Atlantic.
Ultimately, the decision to pay extra for an aisle seat depends on individual preferences and the specific circumstances of each flight. While some travellers prioritise the convenience and comfort of aisle seats, others may opt for cheaper alternatives or accept seat assignments during check-in.
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Choosing seats in advance
Choosing your seat in advance can be a convenient option, especially if you have a preference for where you want to sit or if you are travelling with family. Some people prefer aisle seats as they provide more freedom to move around, while others prefer window seats for the view. If you are travelling with family, you may want to ensure that you are all seated together.
Airlines may offer the option to choose your seat in advance, but this often comes with an additional cost. This can be done online or through a travel agent, and some airlines even allow you to use reward miles to select certain seats. The cost of choosing a seat in advance can vary, and some airlines may charge more for "premium" seats, such as those with extra legroom or located in the exit rows.
If you do not wish to pay for selecting a seat in advance, you can skip this option. In this case, the airline will assign you a seat, and you may even get a better seat than those who paid extra. Some airlines, such as Alaska, Hawaiian, or JetBlue, have limited or no seat selection fees, so choosing an airline with these policies can help you avoid extra charges.
Additionally, consider the length of your flight and whether you will need extra space or legroom. For shorter flights, you may not want to pay extra for a seat, whereas longer flights might make the additional cost worth it for your comfort.
If you are travelling with family, some airlines will try to seat you together by assigning seats a few days before departure. However, seat selection may be limited at that time, and your group may be split across different rows or the aisle. In this case, you can choose to purchase an extra seat for more personal space, but this may need to be done through a member of staff at the airport or a travel agent.
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Seat assignment fees
Many airlines charge extra fees for seat assignments, including aisle seats. These fees can be misleading, as they are often presented in a way that makes it seem like you must select a seat and pay the accompanying fee. However, on most airlines, you will be assigned a seat at check-in or at the gate if you do not already have one.
Some travellers prefer aisle seats for the extra legroom and the ability to stretch out an arm or leg. Others prefer the freedom to get up at will without bothering their fellow passengers. For these travellers, the extra cost of an aisle seat may be worth it.
If you are travelling with children, most major US airlines guarantee free family seating, so you may not need to pay for seat assignments. Additionally, if you are a frequent flyer with elite status, you may be able to select seats at the time of booking with no additional fees.
It is important to note that seat assignment fees are not always worth the extra money and can feel like an airline money grab. In some cases, airlines are earning more money from seat selection fees than from luggage fees.
To avoid paying seat assignment fees, you can try skipping seat selection altogether. You may get a less desirable seat, but you will still have a seat on the flight. Another strategy is to book a "basic" economy class ticket and then pay for a seat assignment, which may be cheaper than buying a more expensive ticket that includes seat selection.
Ultimately, the decision to pay for a seat assignment, such as an aisle seat, depends on your personal preferences, budget, and travel situation.
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Strategies to avoid fees
While aisle seats are desirable for many travellers, especially those who feel claustrophobic or trapped in window or middle seats, they often come with extra fees. However, there are strategies to avoid these charges.
Firstly, it is important to note that not all airlines charge for aisle seats. Some airlines with lower seat fees include Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines, while Southwest Airlines does not charge for seat selection during checkout. Thus, choosing an airline that does not impose seat selection fees or has lower fees can help you avoid extra charges.
Secondly, if you are travelling with a companion or a group, booking your seats simultaneously increases the chances of being seated together without paying extra. This is because airlines typically seat people under the same record locator number together.
Thirdly, you can opt not to select a seat during checkout. While this may seem risky, most airlines will still assign you a seat at check-in or at the gate, and you might even score a better seat than those who paid for advance seat selection. However, there is also a chance you could end up with a less desirable seat, such as a middle seat at the back of the plane.
Another strategy is to be the last to board. This tactic works best if the flight is not full and you have minimal carry-on luggage. By waiting until the end, you may be able to choose an aisle seat without paying extra, as most passengers would have already taken their assigned seats.
Finally, some travellers suggest offering incentives like gifts, snacks, or even cash to passengers to swap seats. This approach can increase your chances of securing an aisle seat without paying the additional fee directly to the airline.
While these strategies can help you avoid aisle seat fees, it is also important to weigh the benefits of a preferred seat against the cost. In some cases, the extra legroom, wiggle room, and ease of access may be worth the added expense, especially on longer flights.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can pay extra for an aisle seat at the airport. However, it is recommended to book your seat in advance as there may be limited availability at the airport.
The cost of selecting an aisle seat varies depending on the airline and the route. Some airlines charge as little as $20, while others charge upwards of $50 or even $100.
Yes, you can try to swap seats with another passenger after boarding. Alternatively, you can choose an airline that does not charge for seat selection, such as Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Virgin Atlantic.
Paying for an aisle seat can provide extra legroom, easier access to the aisle, and a sense of freedom and control over your seating experience. It can also be beneficial for those who suffer from claustrophobia or those who prefer to have easy access to the lavatory.
