How much does South African Airways charge for seat selection?

Standard: Free for most fares; $10-$30 for promotional fares if selected in advance.. Preferred: $20-$50 depending on the route and flight duration.. Extra Legroom: $40-$100 depending on the route..

What happens if I don't select a seat on South African Airways?

You'll be assigned a seat at check-in, typically a middle seat in the back of the plane.

South African Airways Seat Selection (2026) — Fees, Free Options & How to Choose

Standard seat selection is generally free for most fares, though some promotional fares may require a fee for advance selection.

Seat Selection Fees

Seat Type	Fee
Standard	Free for most fares; $10-$30 for promotional fares if selected in advance.
Preferred	$20-$50 depending on the route and flight duration.
Extra Legroom	$40-$100 depending on the route.
Exit Row	$50-$120 depending on the route.

Free Seat Selection

Yes — Standard seat selection is generally free for most fares, though some promotional fares may require a fee for advance selection.

When Can You Select a Seat?

Seats can be selected at the time of booking or anytime before check-in via 'Manage Booking'.

How to Select Your Seat

Visit the South African Airways website and navigate to 'Manage Booking'.
Enter your booking reference and last name.
Click on 'Select Seats' to view the seat map.
Choose your preferred seats and proceed to payment if applicable.
Save your selection and receive an updated itinerary.

Tips for the Best Seats

Select your seat as early as possible, especially if you prefer an aisle or window seat.
Exit row seats offer more legroom but require passengers to meet specific safety criteria.
Voyager elite members often get free access to preferred or extra legroom seats.
If you don't want to pay for a seat, wait until online check-in opens 24 hours before departure to select from remaining seats for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is seat selection free on South African Airways?: Standard seat selection is generally free for most fares, though some promotional fares may require a fee for advance selection.
How much does South African Airways charge for seat selection?: Standard: Free for most fares; $10-$30 for promotional fares if selected in advance.. Preferred: $20-$50 depending on the route and flight duration.. Extra Legroom: $40-$100 depending on the route..
When can I select a seat on South African Airways?: Seats can be selected at the time of booking or anytime before check-in via 'Manage Booking'.
What happens if I don't select a seat on South African Airways?: You'll be assigned a seat at check-in, typically a middle seat in the back of the plane.