U.S. General Services Administration
Seating
Airlines treat government travelers the same as any other traveler when assigning seats. Here’s how airlines assign seats and how you can improve your chances of getting your preferred seat.
How airlines manage seats
Airlines reserve 20% to 40% of economy class seats, often in the front of the plane or in exit rows with extra legroom, for:
- Travelers with frequent flyer status
- Travelers who book a higher-cost Y economy fare
- Travelers who pay for a preferred seat
Airlines assign remaining seats first come, first served, usually in the back half of the plane, available at booking. Book early to improve your chances of getting a better seat.
Airlines release or discount premium seats on the day of the flight. If you don’t have a seat assignment, the airline will assign you one of these seats at the gate.
Compare seat options by airline
| Features by airline | American | Alaska | Breeze | Delta | JetBlue | Key Lime* | Southwest | United |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Does your airline frequent flyer status open up more seats? | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No, open seating | Yes | Yes |
| Are there premium seats available for purchase? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No, open seating | Yes | Yes |
| Is seating for at least 50% of the plane based on when you make your reservation? | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No, open seating | No | Yes |
| Does booking a _CA fare decrease the likelihood of getting a seat assignment? | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
*Key Lime Air dba Denver Air Connection
Tips for better seating
- Book early and pick your seat immediately. Early booking gives you the best options.
- Join frequent flyer programs. Airline status can unlock better seating.
- Check the seat map often. Better seats frequently open up before departure.
- Claim a seat now, then switch later. If only middle seats are left, pick one now and look for an upgrade at check-in or the gate.
- Get an assigned seat at the airport. If no seats are open during booking, the airline will assign one at check-in or the gate.
Further seating information
Charges: You do not have to pay extra for a ticket that includes a seat assignment to board a flight. If no free advance seats are available, the airline will assign your seat for free at check-in or at the gate. Check in online 24 hours before your flight or save your seating preferences in your travel profile to try to get the best complimentary seats.
Specific seat assignments may incur a fee subject to the contract carrier’s commercial seating policy.
Upgrades: You must pay for upgrades and priority boarding yourself or with frequent flyer benefits, unless your agency approving official authorizes reimbursement under agency policy.
Personal travel: You cannot use contract fares for your personal travel. Contract fares are strictly for official government travel. If you add personal travel to an official trip, you cannot use contract fares for the personal portion, and you must pay for any extra costs yourself, in accordance with FTR 301-10.4.