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Qatar Airways Seat Selection & Seat Upgrade
Flying with Qatar Airways already feels pretty smooth. But picking the right seat or upgrading your class can make the trip even better.
A good seat means more legroom. Better sleep. Maybe a quiet corner by the window.
An upgrade is a whole different level. Lie-flat beds. Great food. More space. And a much more relaxed flight.
This guide keeps things simple. No airline jargon. No confusion. Just clear info so you know what to expect before flying with Qatar Airways.
What Is Seat Selection?
Seat selection in Qatar Airways means choosing where you sit on the plane. Simple as that. Instead of getting a random seat at check-in, you get to pick one yourself.
You can go for:
• A window seat
• An aisle seat
• A seat with extra legroom
With Qatar Airways, seat selection depends on a few things. Your fare. Your cabin class. Your route. Some seats are free. Some cost extra.
Also Read:Traveling with Pets: Airline Rules, Documents & Tips
If you do not choose a seat, Qatar Airways will assign one for you automatically.
What Is a Seat Upgrade?
A seat upgrade in Qatar Airways means moving to a better cabin. For example, Economy to Business. Or Business to First.
Upgrades mean more space. Better service. Better food. And way more comfort, especially on long flights.
You can upgrade by:
• Paying extra
• Using Privilege Club Avios
Not all tickets can be upgraded. And seats are limited. So availability matters.
When Can You Select or Upgrade Seats?
You get plenty of chances to choose or upgrade your seat.
You can do it:
• While booking your flight
• After booking through Manage Booking
• During online check-in
• At the airport check-in counter
• At the boarding gate, if seats are open
Prices and availability change. A lot. If seat choice matters to you, earlier is usually better.
Qatar Airways Seat Selection Options
Qatar Airways offers a few different seat types, especially in Economy.
Standard Seats
These are regular seats.
- Available in all cabins
- Free on many fares
- Automatically assigned if you do not choose
Good enough if you do not have a strong preference.
Preferred Seats
Preferred seats are closer to the front.
- Faster exit after landing
- Useful if you have a short connection
- May cost extra on lower Economy fares
Great for convenience.
Extra Legroom Seats
Need more space? These are for you.
- Usually in exit rows
- More legroom
- More comfort on long flights
- Cost extra
Exit row seats come with rules. You must meet age and mobility requirements.
Seat Selection Fees on Qatar Airways
Seat fees depend on your ticket.
• Some Economy fares charge for seat selection
• Higher Economy fares often include free seats
• Business and First Class include seat selection
Fees change based on route, seat type, and timing.
How to Select Seats on Qatar Airways
Choosing a seat is easy.
You can do it by:
• Visiting Manage Booking on the Qatar Airways website
• Using the Qatar Airways app
• Selecting a seat during online check-in
You can see the seat map before choosing. Very helpful.
Seats are always subject to availability.
Qatar 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
• Often cheaper during online check-in
If you see a good offer, grab it fast.
Avios Upgrades
Privilege Club members can use Avios.
• Works on eligible fares
• Limited availability
• Some Economy tickets may not qualify
These upgrades can sell out quickly.
Last-Minute Upgrades
These pop up close to departure.
• Offered at check-in or boarding gate
• Sometimes good value
• Never guaranteed
Nice surprise if you get one. Not something to rely on.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Seat in Qatar Airways
An upgrade can really change your flight.
You may get:
• Bigger, comfier seats
• Better food and drinks
• Lounge access in Business and First
• Extra baggage allowance
• Priority boarding and check-in
Perfect for long-haul flights.
Things to Know Before Upgrading
Before you upgrade, keep this in mind.
• Most upgrades are non-refundable
• Seats are limited
• New cabin rules apply after upgrade
• Baggage allowance usually follows the upgraded class
Also Read: How Carry-On and Check-In Luggage Rules Work in 2026?
Always check the details before confirming.
Seat Selection vs Seat Upgrade: What’s the Difference?
They serve different purposes.
| Choose Seat Selection If: | Choose a Seat Upgrade If: |
| • You are happy with your cabin | • You want a premium experience |
| • You just want a better seat | • You are flying long haul |
| • You want to save money | • You want more space and better sleep |
| Seat selection improves comfort without changing your class. |
Also Read: Can You Change the Name on Flight Ticket? Rules, Fees & What’s Allowed
Upgrades change the entire experience.
Qatar Airways Seat Selection & Upgrade at a Glance
• Seat selection fees depend on your fare
• Extra legroom and preferred seats cost more
• Upgrades are available with cash or Avios
• Best upgrade deals often appear during online check-in or at the airport
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is seat selection free on Qatar Airways?
Sometimes. Some fares include it. Others charge based on the seat.
Can I upgrade my seat after check-in?
Yes. If seats are available, you may see upgrade offers online or at the airport.
Are last-minute upgrades cheaper?
Sometimes. Not always. It depends on availability and demand.
Can I select my seat after booking?
Yes. You can do it anytime through Manage Booking or the app.
Can I upgrade using Avios?
Yes. As long as your ticket is eligible and seats are available.
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.
