Seat selection on American Airlines is an integral part of the booking process, allowing passengers to choose their preferred seating based on their needs and priorities. Whether booking online, via the mobile app, or through a travel agent, passengers can review the seating map and select from available options. While standard seats may be included in the ticket price for many fares, others—such as Main Cabin Extra or Premium seating—may require an additional fee.
The process is designed to accommodate a variety of preferences, such as sitting closer to the front of the plane, choosing a window or aisle seat, or ensuring passengers traveling together are seated side by side. American Airlines also provides flexibility for passengers to modify seat selections after booking, subject to availability.
Main Cabin Options
American Airlines offers several seating choices within the Main Cabin, catering to a range of passenger preferences and budgets. Standard Main Cabin seats are the most commonly selected option, providing essential comfort and in-flight services, such as complimentary snacks, beverages, and access to personal entertainment via the airline’s app or seatback screens (on select aircraft).
For those seeking additional comfort, Main Cabin Extra seats provide up to six inches of extra legroom, offering more space to stretch out during the flight. These seats are often located toward the front of the Main Cabin, allowing for earlier boarding and quicker deplaning. Passengers in Main Cabin Extra also benefit from complimentary alcoholic beverages.
Seat availability in the Main Cabin is displayed during the booking process, with pricing and specific seat features clearly marked. For passengers traveling with families, American Airlines aims to seat children under 15 with at least one accompanying adult at no additional charge, depending on seat availability. This ensures a smoother and more accommodating travel experience for families.
Premium Economy
Premium Economy on American Airlines is designed for travelers seeking a step up in comfort and service without the full cost of Business or First Class. This seating class is available on many long-haul international flights and select domestic routes on larger aircraft.
Premium Economy seats are located in a dedicated cabin and offer significantly enhanced features compared to the Main Cabin. These include wider seats, more legroom, extra recline, adjustable footrests, and larger personal screens for in-flight entertainment. The cabin’s limited size creates a quieter and more exclusive environment for passengers.
In addition to the physical seating improvements, Premium Economy passengers enjoy additional perks, such as priority boarding and check-in, an upgraded meal service with premium dining options, and complimentary alcoholic beverages. Travelers also receive amenity kits, which include comfort items like eye masks, socks, and toiletries to enhance their experience on longer flights.
This seating class is ideal for passengers who value both affordability and enhanced travel comfort, providing a midpoint between the Main Cabin and the premium Business Class experience.
First Class and Business
American Airlines’ Business and First Class seating offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort, tailored to meet the needs of premium travelers. While both classes provide an elevated experience, there are distinct differences between them, depending on the aircraft and route.
Business Class is typically available on long-haul international flights and select transcontinental routes. Seats in this class often feature lie-flat capabilities, allowing passengers to fully recline into a bed-like position for maximum rest. Additional features include adjustable headrests, lumbar support, and privacy dividers. Business Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as premium dining, access to lounges like the Admirals Club or Flagship Lounge, and expedited security and boarding.
First Class is offered on both domestic and international flights, with the most luxurious experience found on long-haul routes. Domestic First Class seats are wider and more spacious than those in the Main Cabin, offering more legroom and premium services. On international flights, First Class cabins may include fully enclosed suites with lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, and personal storage space. Passengers are treated to elevated dining with multi-course meals, curated wine pairings, and personalized service.
Specialty Seating and Considerations
American Airlines offers several specialty seating options designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience for all passengers.
Bulkhead and Exit Row Seats: Bulkhead seats, located at the front of each cabin section, provide additional legroom and easy access to restrooms, making them a popular choice for taller passengers or those seeking extra space. Exit row seats also offer extra legroom, though they come with specific requirements—passengers must meet age and physical capability guidelines to assist in an emergency.
Family Seating Policies: To accommodate families, American Airlines prioritizes seating children under 15 with at least one accompanying adult, even if they have not selected seats together at the time of booking. Families are encouraged to book early or contact the airline for assistance to secure adjacent seats.
Accessible Seating: For passengers with disabilities, American Airlines provides accessible seating options, including those designed for individuals using mobility aids. The airline accommodates travelers with service animals, offers pre-boarding assistance, and ensures that seating assignments meet specific accessibility needs.
Preferred Seats: For a small fee, passengers can select “preferred seats,” which are standard Main Cabin seats located in more desirable areas, such as closer to the front of the plane or near exits, to expedite boarding and deplaning.
American Airlines also advises passengers to review seat maps during booking, as specialty seats are clearly marked and may have specific fees or restrictions. By offering a variety of seating choices, the airline aims to provide a comfortable and accommodating experience for all travelers.