What Happens If You Dont Choose Seats On American Airlines?

admin
Chief Editor of - Book USA Airlines

Are you worried about what will happen if you don’t choose seats on American Airlines? You’re not alone. Many passengers are unsure about the consequences of not selecting seats in advance. In this article, we’ll explore what happens if you don’t choose seats on American Airlines and provide you with some tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free flight.

Choosing your seat on a flight can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the airline’s policies. But what happens if you don’t choose seats on American Airlines? Will you be stuck in the middle seat with no legroom? Will you be seated away from your travel companions? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out what you need to know.

What Happens if You Dont Choose Seats on American Airlines?

What Happens if You Don’t Choose Seats on American Airlines?

Choosing seats on American Airlines is an important part of the travel experience. However, if you forget to select your seats, or choose not to do so, you may be wondering what will happen. In this article, we will explore the consequences of not choosing seats on American Airlines.

1. Random Seat Assignment

If you don’t choose seats on American Airlines, the airline will assign you a seat at random. This means that you may end up with a seat that is not ideal for your needs. For example, you may be seated in a middle seat when you prefer an aisle or window seat. Additionally, you may be separated from your travel companions if you are traveling with a group.

If you are not happy with your randomly assigned seat, you can try to change it at the airport. However, keep in mind that there may not be many options available if the flight is full.

2. Additional Fees

While American Airlines does not charge a fee for choosing seats, they do charge for certain preferred seats. If you do not choose seats and end up with a randomly assigned preferred seat, you may be charged an additional fee. This can be frustrating if you were not aware of the fee beforehand.

Read More:  What Is The Ticker Symbol For American Airlines?

To avoid any unexpected fees, it is always a good idea to choose your seats in advance. This way, you can select the seats that work best for you without any surprises.

3. Boarding Position

If you don’t choose seats on American Airlines, you may end up with a less desirable boarding position. American Airlines uses a boarding system that assigns passengers a group and number based on their seat selection. If you have not chosen a seat, you will be assigned a boarding position at random.

This can be problematic if you are traveling with a lot of carry-on luggage, as you may not have enough overhead bin space if you board later in the process. Additionally, you may have to wait in a longer line to board the plane.

4. Reduced Options for Special Needs

If you have special needs, such as a wheelchair or other mobility assistance, not choosing seats in advance can limit your options. American Airlines offers a variety of seating options for passengers with special needs, but these seats may be limited if you wait until the last minute to select your seats.

To ensure that you have the accommodations you need, it is important to select your seats in advance and notify American Airlines of any special needs you may have.

5. Missed Flight Connections

If you are connecting to another flight, not choosing seats on your American Airlines flight can result in missed connections. If you are seated far from the front of the plane, it may take longer for you to deplane and make your way to your connecting flight. This can be especially problematic if your connecting flight is on a tight schedule.

To avoid missed connections, it is important to select seats that are close to the front of the plane and give yourself plenty of time to make your connection.

6. Benefits of Choosing Seats in Advance

While there are consequences to not choosing seats in advance, there are also benefits to doing so. By selecting your seats in advance, you can choose seats that are most comfortable for you, ensure that you are seated with your travel companions, and avoid unexpected fees.

Additionally, by selecting seats in advance, you can improve your boarding position and ensure that you have any necessary accommodations for special needs.

7. Choosing Seats vs. Not Choosing Seats

Choosing Seats Not Choosing Seats
Ability to choose preferred seats Random seat assignment
Opportunity to sit with travel companions Possible separation from travel companions
No unexpected fees Possible additional fees for preferred seats
Better boarding position Possible less desirable boarding position
More options for special needs Limited options for special needs

8. Conclusion

Choosing seats on American Airlines may seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on your travel experience. By selecting your seats in advance, you can ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable flight, avoid unexpected fees, and reduce the risk of missed connections.

Read More:  Can You Fly With A Puppy On American Airlines?

On the other hand, if you choose not to select your seats, you may be assigned a less desirable seat, face additional fees, and have a less comfortable travel experience overall.

9. Tips for Choosing Seats on American Airlines

  • Choose seats as early as possible to ensure the best selection
  • Consider your needs and preferences when selecting seats
  • Notify American Airlines of any special needs you may have
  • Check for any additional fees associated with preferred seats
  • Choose seats that are close to the front of the plane to improve your boarding position

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does American Airlines charge a fee for choosing seats?

A: American Airlines does not charge a fee for choosing seats, with the exception of certain preferred seats.

Q: Can I change my seat assignment after it has been assigned?

A: Yes, you can change your seat assignment at any time, subject to availability.

Q: What should I do if I am not happy with my randomly assigned seat?

A: If you are not happy with your randomly assigned seat, you can try to change it at the airport. However, keep in mind that there may not be many options available if the flight is full.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find below some frequently asked questions about American Airlines seat selection and what happens if you don’t choose seats on American Airlines.

Can I Choose Seats for Free on American Airlines?

American Airlines allows passengers to select their seats for free at the time of check-in. However, this means that you may not get to choose the seat you want or be seated with your travel companions. If you have specific seating preferences or want to ensure that you are seated with your group, it’s best to select your seats in advance.

Keep in mind that if you don’t choose seats in advance, you may be assigned seats at the back of the plane or in a middle seat. This can be uncomfortable, especially on longer flights, so it’s recommended that you select your seats as soon as possible.

How Much Does It Cost to Choose Seats on American Airlines?

The cost of selecting seats on American Airlines varies depending on the type of fare you have purchased. Basic Economy fares typically don’t include seat selection, and if you want to choose your seats, you will need to pay an additional fee. Main Cabin and Premium Economy fares include seat selection at no additional cost, while Business and First Class fares come with more advanced seat selection options.

If you’re unsure about whether your fare includes seat selection or how much it will cost, you can check your reservation online or contact American Airlines customer service for assistance.

What Happens If I Don’t Choose Seats in Advance on American Airlines?

If you don’t choose seats in advance on American Airlines, you will be assigned seats at the time of check-in. This means that you may not get to choose the seat you want or be seated with your travel companions. In some cases, you may be assigned seats at the back of the plane or in a middle seat, which can be uncomfortable, especially on longer flights.

Read More:  How Do I Use Verifly App On American Airlines?

If you’re unhappy with your assigned seats, you can try to change them at the airport or ask a gate agent for assistance. Keep in mind that if the flight is full, there may be limited options for changing seats.

When Can I Choose Seats on American Airlines?

You can choose seats on American Airlines at the time of booking or anytime before your flight. If you don’t choose seats in advance, you will be assigned seats at the time of check-in. Keep in mind that seat selection is subject to availability, so it’s best to select your seats as soon as possible to ensure that you get the ones you want.

If you need to change your seats after you’ve already selected them, you can do so online or by contacting American Airlines customer service. Keep in mind that there may be fees associated with changing seats, depending on the type of fare you have purchased.

Can I Change Seats on American Airlines?

Yes, you can change seats on American Airlines. If you need to change your seats after you’ve already selected them, you can do so online or by contacting American Airlines customer service. Keep in mind that there may be fees associated with changing seats, depending on the type of fare you have purchased.

If you’re unhappy with your assigned seats, you can try to change them at the airport or ask a gate agent for assistance. Keep in mind that if the flight is full, there may be limited options for changing seats.

5 Tips For Flying American Airlines (DO NOT MISS THIS)


In conclusion, choosing seats on American Airlines is an important part of your travel experience. Not choosing seats can lead to a variety of potential issues, including being separated from your travel companions, sitting in a less desirable location, or even being bumped from your flight. By taking the time to select seats, you can ensure a more comfortable and stress-free journey.

Additionally, choosing seats on American Airlines is easy and can be done during the booking process or even after you have already purchased your ticket. With the airline’s online seat selection tool, you can view the available options and choose the seats that best suit your needs.

Finally, selecting seats on American Airlines can also offer additional perks such as priority boarding and extra legroom. So, while it may seem like a small detail, taking the time to choose your seats can make a big difference in your overall travel experience. Don’t leave it up to chance – take control and choose your seats on American Airlines.

About The Author

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top