How Do I Select Seats on Air France?

When you are booking your flight, one of the questions that often comes to mind is: How do I select my seats? Whether you want to make sure you are sitting by the window near the front of the plane or just want to choose a comfortable spot, Air France seat selection is a crucial part of your travel experience. Let's break it down step-by-step so you know exactly what to do and what to expect. 

Does Air France charge for seat selection?

One of the first questions many travelers have when booking with Air France is whether they will need to pay extra for seat selection. The simple answer is: Yes, Air France does charge for seat selection, but not always. Here's how it works: 

• Free Seat Selection: If you are flying in a basic or standard fare, you can select your seat for free after check-in. However, your options might be limited to standard seats, which are usually in the middle of the cabin or near the back. 

• Paid Seat Selection: If you are looking for more flexibility or want a specific seat, you can select your seat in advance for a fee. This allows you to choose a preferred spot, like an aisle or window seat, or even seats with extra legroom. 

So, while Air France's free seat selection is an option, you will have to wait until check-in. But if you want more control over your seat choice, the fee applies to those who want to choose their seats before check-in. 

How to Select Seats on Air France?

Now that you know about the charges, let's walk through how to actually select your seat. Here's a step-by-step guide: 

Step 1: Booking Your Flight 

When you book your ticket with Air France, you will be able to review available seat options. For most tickets, especially if you are flying in economy class, you will have the option to either select a seat right away or wait until after booking. If you choose to select seats on Air France immediately, the system will show you a map of the plane with available seats. If you are booking a basic fare, your seat options will be limited to standard seats, and you may need to pay a fee for more premium spots. 

Step 2: Advanced Seat Selection

If you have purchased a more flexible or premium fare, you can choose to advance seat selection at the time of booking. In this case, you can pick your preferred seat like aisle, window, extra legroom, or even near the front of the plane) for an additional fee. This is usually the best option if you have a preference for where you sit and want to ensure a comfortable flight. 

Step 3: During Online Check-in

If you didn't select a seat during booking, you can still pick one during online check-in, which opens 30 hours before the flight departure: 

• Free Seat Selection: If you booked a basic fare and have not selected your seat yet, you will be able to choose a free standard seat during this time. 

• Paid Seat Selection: For those who want to select premium seats, like those with extra legroom or near the front Air France seat selection fee will apply. 

Step 4: At the Airport 

If you prefer, you can also select your seat at the airport, but keep in mind that your options may be limited, especially if you are boarding during peak times. Seat selection will apply, but again, your choices will be fewer. 

If you’re exploring more airline-specific seating tips, our British Airways seat selection guide offers another great reference for European carriers.

Air France Seat Selection Options

Air France offers various seat options depending on your preferences and the class you are flying in. Here is a quick rundown of the options available: 

1. Standard Seats

• These seats are the basic options and are usually located in the middle or rear sections of the plane. 

• Air France seating selection for standard seats is free if you wait until online check-in, but there is a limited choice when it comes to where you will sit. 

2. Preferred Seats: 

• Preferred seats are available for a small additional fee. These are usually located near the front of the plane or have extra space for legroom. 

• This is a good choice for those who want a better spot without paying for a premium seat. 

3. Extra Legroom Seats

• If you are tall or simply prefer more space, you can opt for extra legroom seats. These are generally located in the exit rows or bulkhead areas. 

• You can select seats on Air France for extra legroom, but expect to pay a fee for this luxury. 

4. Business Class Seats

• Business Class passengers get the best options when it comes to seating. Seats are spacious, lie flat, and come with a range of added perks. 

• Air France select seats for business class are automatically available at no extra charge, and you can select your seat as part of the booking process. 

5. Premium Economy Seats

Premium economy seats offer a more comfortable and slightly more spacious option than standard economy. Passengers can select their seats in advance for free. 

For travelers booking across North America, the Air Canada seat selection page covers comfort and seat map choices in detail.

Can I Change My Seat After Booking?

Yes, Air France seat selection is flexible, and you can change your seat after booking as well. However, you need to keep in mind that free options are only available during online check-in. If you want to change to a preferred seat or extra legroom seat, you may have to pay the difference. 

Families Traveling With Children

When traveling with children, Air France offers special considerations to ensure families have a comfortable experience. For families with children, you can choose Air France's advance seat selection, which helps you to sit together. You can choose reserved seats in advance at an additional cost or choose your seats during check-in for free, depending on the type of ticket. Families can select seats with extra space or those close to the flight attendants, making the journey more convenient. Air France also provides priority boarding for families with young children, which is a great perk to avoid long queues. 

Looking to understand low-cost carrier seating? Our Southwest cancellation policy post also touches on seating flexibility and boarding positions.

Children Traveling Alone 

For children traveling alone, Air France offers an unaccompanied minor service. This service is available for children aged 4 to 17 who are flying without a parent or guardian. The airline ensures their safety throughout the journey, and staff members take care of the child during booking the flight and at the destination. The service includes special attention at check-in and boarding and help in finding the connecting flight if necessary. 

Selecting your seat on Air France doesn't have to be complicated. While there are some costs involved with the Air France seat selection fee, you also have the option to choose a free seat, especially if you are willing to wait until check-in. So next time you are booking with this airline, use these tips to pick your perfect seat, whether it's a window seat for scenic views or a front-row spot for a quick exit. 

Interested in how group bookings work? See what’s involved with the American Airlines group travel experience when planning travel for multiple people.

Conclusion

Selecting your seat on Air France is all about balancing comfort, convenience, and cost. Whether you’re looking for a window seat with scenic views, extra legroom for long flights, or a spot close to the front for a quick exit, Air France offers options to match your preferences. While free seat selection is possible if you wait until check-in, paying for a preferred seat ensures you get exactly what you want. With a little planning, you can make your flight experience smoother and more enjoyable.

FAQs

1. How do I select seats on Air France?
You can choose seats during booking, online check-in, or at the airport.

2. Does Air France charge for seat selection?
Yes, but standard seats are free at check-in; premium options cost extra.

3. Can I change my seat after booking?
Yes, but upgrades to preferred or extra legroom seats may require a fee.

4. Are seats free for families with children?
Families can select seats together for free at check-in or pay in advance.

5. What’s the best seat for extra space?
Extra legroom seats in exit rows or bulkheads offer the most space for a fee.