United Airlines Seat Selection Guide (2026)
Free standard seat selection for Economy and above at booking. Basic Economy: assigned at check-in (no advance selection).
Have a question about United Airlines seat selection?
Talk to an ExpertSeat Selection Fees
| Seat Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard | Free (Economy+) / Not available (Basic Economy) |
| Preferred | $15-$49 (aisle/window, forward cabin) |
| Extra Legroom | $39-$199 (Economy Plus — up to 6 extra inches) |
| Exit Row | Included in Economy Plus pricing |
Free Seat Selection
Yes — Free standard seat selection for Economy and above at booking. Basic Economy: assigned at check-in (no advance selection).
When Can You Select a Seat?
Economy: at booking. Basic Economy: at check-in. Economy Plus and preferred seating, when available: Premier Silver at check-in; Premier Gold at booking; complimentary and paid Economy Plus access/upgrades are not valid for Basic Economy tickets.
How to Select Your Seat
- During booking on united.com → Select Seats
- After booking: united.com → My Trips → Change Seats
- United app → My Trips → Seats
- At check-in (24 hours before departure)
- At airport kiosk or gate
Tips for the Best Seats
- When available, Premier Silver members get free Economy Plus at check-in and Premier Gold members at booking; Economy Plus, free or paid, isn't available on Basic Economy tickets.
- If United is holding seats for operational reasons and you can't pick one, United assigns your seat at check-in or at the gate.
- Consider purchasing Economy Plus for flights over 3 hours
- After you save a seat preference in the United app, United says it will either automatically assign that preferred seat or notify you when it becomes available.
- United sells an annual Economy Plus subscription for eligible flights, starting at $799, which can cover you and up to eight companions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is seat selection free on United Airlines?
- Free standard seat selection for Economy and above at booking. Basic Economy: assigned at check-in (no advance selection).
- How much does United Airlines charge for seat selection?
- Standard: Free (Economy+) / Not available (Basic Economy). Preferred: $15-$49 (aisle/window, forward cabin). Extra Legroom: $39-$199 (Economy Plus — up to 6 extra inches).
- When can I select a seat on United Airlines?
- Economy: at booking. Basic Economy: at check-in. Economy Plus and preferred seating, when available: Premier Silver at check-in; Premier Gold at booking; complimentary and paid Economy Plus access/upgrades are not valid for Basic Economy tickets.
- What happens if I don't select a seat on United Airlines?
- You'll be assigned a seat at check-in, typically a middle seat in the back of the plane.