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.
For the most up to date information or to book a flight, call a helpful agent at 1-800-6TRAVEL!
