An upgrade takes things further. More space. Better food. More privacy. And a much calmer flight, especially on long routes.

Also Read: How Carry-On and Check-In Luggage Rules Work in 2026?

This guide keeps everything simple. No confusing rules. No complicated terms. Just clear info to help you choose the best seat or upgrade when flying with British Airways.

What Is Seat Selection?

Seat selection means choosing where you want to sit before you fly. Instead of getting a random seat at check-in, you pick one yourself.

You might want:
• A window seat for the view
• An aisle seat for easy movement
• A seat closer to the front
• Extra legroom for comfort

With British Airways, seat selection depends on your ticket. Your fare type matters. Your cabin matters. Your route can matter too.

Some seats are free. Others cost extra. If you do nothing, British Airways will assign you a seat automatically.

What Is a Seat Upgrade?

A seat upgrade means moving to a better cabin. For example:
• Economy to Premium Economy
• Premium Economy to Business
• Business to First

Upgrades usually mean more space and better service. Seats are bigger. Meals are better. The flight feels more relaxed.

You can upgrade by:
• Paying extra money
• Using British Airways Avios

Not all tickets can be upgraded. And not all flights have upgrade seats available.

When Can You Select or Upgrade Seats?

You can choose or upgrade your seat at different times.

You can do it:
• While booking your flight
• After booking in Manage My Booking
• During online check-in
• At the airport check-in counter
• At the boarding gate, if seats are still open

Also Read:Can You Change the Name on Flight Ticket? Rules, Fees & What’s Allowed

Prices change. Seats sell out. If you care about your seat, it helps to check early.

British Airways Seat Selection Options

British Airways offers different seat types, especially in Economy.

Standard Seats

These are regular seats.

• Available in all cabins
• Free on many fares
• Assigned automatically if you do not choose

They work well if you have no strong preference.

Preferred Seats

Preferred seats are closer to the front.

• Faster exit after landing
• Good for tight connections
• Usually cost extra on lower fares

A popular choice for convenience.

Extra Legroom Seats

Extra legroom seats give you more space.

• Often located in exit rows
• More room to stretch your legs
• More comfort on long flights
• Cost extra

Exit row seats come with safety rules. You must meet age and mobility requirements.

Seat Selection Fees on British Airways

Seat fees depend on your ticket.

• Some Economy fares charge for seat selection
• Higher Economy fares may include free seats
• Premium Economy, Business, and First usually include seat selection

Fees depend on:
• Route
• Seat type
• When you choose the seat

How to Select Seats on British Airways

Choosing a seat is simple.

You can do it by:
• Visiting Manage My Booking on the British Airways website
• Using the British Airways app
• Selecting a seat during online check-in

Seat maps are shown, so you can see what you are choosing.

Seats are always subject to availability.

British Airways Seat Upgrade Options

There are a few ways to upgrade your seat.

Paid Upgrades

This is the most common option.

• Available online and at the airport
• Prices depend on demand
• Sometimes cheaper during online check-in

If you see a good offer, it is worth considering.

Avios Upgrades

If you are an Executive Club member, you can use Avios.

• Available on eligible fares
• Subject to availability
• Some cheaper tickets may not qualify

Avios upgrades can sell out quickly.

Last-Minute Upgrades

These appear close to departure.

• Offered at check-in or boarding gate
• Can be good value
• Never guaranteed

Think of them as a bonus.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Seat

Upgrading can make a big difference.

You may get:
• Bigger and more comfortable seats
• Better food and drinks
• Lounge access in Business and First
• Extra baggage allowance
• Priority check-in and boarding

Very helpful on long flights.

Things to Know Before Upgrading

Before you upgrade, keep this in mind.

• Most upgrades are non-refundable
• Seats are limited
• Cabin rules change after upgrade
• Baggage allowance usually follows the new cabin

Always read the details before confirming.

Seat Selection vs Seat Upgrade: What’s the Difference?

They serve different needs.

Choose Seat Selection If:

• You are happy with your cabin
• You want a window or aisle seat
• You want to save money

Also Read:Traveling with Pets: Airline Rules, Documents & Tips

Seat selection improves comfort without changing class.

Choose a Seat Upgrade If:

• You want more space
• You are flying long haul
• You want a premium experience

Upgrades change the entire flight.

British Airways Seat Selection & Upgrade at a Glance

• Seat selection fees depend on your fare
• Extra legroom and preferred seats cost more
• Upgrades available using cash or Avios
• Best upgrade deals often appear during online check-in or at the airport

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Written by: MyBaggageInfo Travel Research Team
Reviewed & Updated: 2026

Disclaimer: MyBaggageInfo.com is an independent travel information website and is not affiliated with any airline.

MyBaggageInfo.com provides general, third-party travel information. Airline seat selection and upgrade policies can change anytime, so always double-check details on the airline’s official website.