American Airlines·oneworld
American Seat Selection & Upgrades
American Seat Selection & Upgrades — Summary
How American seat selection works by fare, extra legroom options, upgrade routes, and the family seating rules that let children sit with a parent free.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- Choosing a seat: Free advance seat selection in Main Cabin and above.
- Extra legroom: Main Cabin Extra provides additional pitch and is complimentary for AAdvantage elites and companions.
- Upgrades: AAdvantage elites receive complimentary upgrades on domestic routes by tier and booking window; systemwide and mileage upgrades apply on long-haul.
- Seating children with a parent: American seats children 14 and under next to an accompanying adult at no charge when seats are available at booking, consistent with DOT family seating guidance..
Choosing a seat
Free advance seat selection in Main Cabin and above. Basic Economy passengers may buy a seat assignment from booking onward or accept an automatic assignment at check-in.
Extra legroom
Main Cabin Extra provides additional pitch and is complimentary for AAdvantage elites and companions. Preferred Seats are better-located standard seats sold at a lower premium.
Upgrades
AAdvantage elites receive complimentary upgrades on domestic routes by tier and booking window; systemwide and mileage upgrades apply on long-haul. Upgrades can also be purchased at check-in.
Seating children with a parent
American seats children 14 and under next to an accompanying adult at no charge when seats are available at booking, consistent with DOT family seating guidance.
Cabins available
American operates: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Main Cabin Extra, Premium Economy, Flagship Business, Flagship First.
American seats & upgrades — common questions
Do I have to pay to choose a seat on American?
Free advance seat selection in Main Cabin and above. Basic Economy passengers may buy a seat assignment from booking onward or accept an automatic assignment at check-in.
Can my child sit with me on American?
American seats children 14 and under next to an accompanying adult at no charge when seats are available at booking, consistent with DOT family seating guidance.
How do I upgrade on American?
AAdvantage elites receive complimentary upgrades on domestic routes by tier and booking window; systemwide and mileage upgrades apply on long-haul. Upgrades can also be purchased at check-in.
More American help
Booking American? Talk to a US travel consultant.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.