British Airways·oneworld
British Airways Seat Selection & Upgrades
British Airways Seat Selection & Upgrades — Summary
How British Airways 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 seat selection opens 24 hours before departure for all passengers.
- Extra legroom: Exit row and bulkhead seats are sold at a premium in World Traveller..
- Upgrades: Avios upgrades are available on BA-operated flights when Reward inventory exists.
- Seating children with a parent: BA seats children under 12 with an accompanying adult free of charge, and allows free advance seat selection for families with children under 12 from a set window before departure..
Choosing a seat
Free seat selection opens 24 hours before departure for all passengers. Advance selection is charged unless you hold Executive Club Bronze or above, or are travelling in First.
Extra legroom
Exit row and bulkhead seats are sold at a premium in World Traveller.
Upgrades
Avios upgrades are available on BA-operated flights when Reward inventory exists. BA also runs a paid upgrade bidding system on many routes.
Seating children with a parent
BA seats children under 12 with an accompanying adult free of charge, and allows free advance seat selection for families with children under 12 from a set window before departure.
Cabins available
British Airways operates: Euro Traveller / World Traveller (Economy), World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy), Club Europe / Club World (Business), First.
British Airways seats & upgrades — common questions
Do I have to pay to choose a seat on British Airways?
Free seat selection opens 24 hours before departure for all passengers. Advance selection is charged unless you hold Executive Club Bronze or above, or are travelling in First.
Can my child sit with me on British Airways?
BA seats children under 12 with an accompanying adult free of charge, and allows free advance seat selection for families with children under 12 from a set window before departure.
How do I upgrade on British Airways?
Avios upgrades are available on BA-operated flights when Reward inventory exists. BA also runs a paid upgrade bidding system on many routes.
More British Airways help
Booking British Airways? 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.