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Can I change my seat on American Airlines?

American Airlines is the largest airline in the world, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, in the United States. The airline operates flights to 269 domestic destinations and 81 international destinations in 58 countries, and if you booked your travel with American Airlines and booked your seat, you must be wondering if you can change your seat on the flight. 


Passengers, if they are willing to change their seats on American Airlines seat selection economy class, they can do so. The newly selected seats are subject to availability and can be done online and over the phone. 

Do you have to pay to change seats on American Airlines?

American Airlines allows passengers to change seats after booking, but that comes at a cost. If you want a free seat, it is recommended for you to wait till the airline assigns you a standard seat for free. American Airlines seat selection fees depend on the seat you choose. For instance, window and aisle seats are usually more expensive than the ones in the middle. For seat change, there might be a change fee, and if you choose a seat more costly than the previous one, you will have to pay the difference. 

The seat selection at American Airlines is generally between $9 to $24 for the basic economy fares.

Can I change my flight seat on American Airlines after booking?

Yes, passengers can change their seats on American Airlines after booking. Seat selection after booking can be done online or over the phone call with an agent. The online procedure for changing your seat is pretty straightforward and requires only a few minutes. 

  • First, Visit American Airlines’ official website on your web browser. 
  • On the home page, click on ‘My Trips.’
  • Enter your reservation/booking number and the passenger’s last name. 
  • Tap ‘Change seats’ on the redirected page and follow the instructions on your screen. 
  • Please select a new seat according to your preference and pay for it online using your credit/debit card. 

Does American Airlines allow me to change my seat once I check in?

Yes, passengers can choose seats after the American Airlines seat selection check-in process. It can be done online as well as over the phone with an agent. Passengers, if they choose to change seats after check-in, must ensure to get a new boarding pass. 

Is it possible to change my seat from economy to business class?

American Airlines allows passengers to upgrade their seats from economy class to business with their seat upgrade policy. You can talk to an agent at the airline and ask them to upgrade the seat from economy to business class, pay the seat change fee, and the difference in the seat upgrade fare. In some cases, an agent will let you know with the American Airlines change seat status if they are able to upgrade the seat. The steps to call the airline are as follows. 

  • Please check if you are dialing the correct phone number at 800-433-7300. 
  • After that follow the instructions given on the IVR and press the keys accordingly. 
  • You might have to wait as your call might get a hold-up time; please wait for your call to get through. 
  • Once you are on call with an agent, ask them to assist you with the seat upgrade.

Passengers can also pay using their Miles points on American Airlines to upgrade seats. Please read the policies and terms & conditions before proceeding with anything. 

Is it cheaper to upgrade seats on American Airlines at the airport?

At American Airlines, it is generally cheaper to upgrade the seats at the airport. However, seat upgrades on the flight are subject to availability, so it is recommended that passengers upgrade their seats online before arriving at the airport.