Lufthansa Seat Selection Fee: What You Need to Know Before Your Flight

Flying with Lufthansa offers passengers a premium experience, but understanding all the details about their seat selection policies can save you money and enhance your comfort. One key aspect travelers often ask about is the Lufthansa seat selection fee —when it applies, how much it costs, and how to avoid unnecessary charges.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about Lufthansa’s seat selection fees, including seat options by cabin class, fee structures, and practical tips to ensure you get your preferred seat without breaking the bank.

Why Does Lufthansa Charge a Seat Selection Fee?

Airlines like Lufthansa charge seat selection fees primarily as a way to offer passengers more choices and convenience while managing their inventory. For travelers who want to guarantee a specific seat—whether it’s a window, aisle, or extra legroom—they provide the option to pay in advance.

This fee also helps Lufthansa offset costs related to reserving seats and managing different fare types. The good news is that not all passengers pay this fee; it depends on your ticket type, route, and how early you book.

Understanding Lufthansa’s Seating Classes and Seat Selection Policies

Lufthansa’s seat selection fees vary widely based on the class of service and the type of ticket purchased. Let’s break down what you can expect for each cabin:

Economy Class

• Economy Light Fares: The most restrictive and budget-friendly ticket class. Passengers who purchase this fare usually must pay a Lufthansa seat selection fee if they want to choose a seat before check-in opens. Otherwise, a seat is assigned automatically during check-in.
• Standard Economy Fares: Some standard economy tickets include free seat selection at booking, but this can vary based on the route and availability.
• Extra Legroom Seats: Even for Economy passengers who have free seat selection, choosing seats with extra legroom (like exit rows or bulkheads) will almost always come with a Lufthansa seat selection fee.

Premium Economy

Premium Economy passengers typically enjoy complimentary seat selection at the time of booking, and there is no additional fee for selecting seats within this cabin. Extra legroom seats within Premium Economy may still carry additional charges, but those are less common.

Business Class and First Class

Passengers traveling in Business and First Class do not pay a Lufthansa seat selection fee. These cabins offer complimentary seat choice at booking and even allow changes without fees, subject to availability. This benefit is part of the premium experience Lufthansa offers in these classes.

How Much Is the Lufthansa Seat Selection Fee?

The exact Lufthansa seat selection fee varies depending on several factors:

• Route: Long-haul international flights tend to have higher fees compared to short domestic or European routes.
• Seat Type: Standard seats have lower fees or may be free, while premium seats like extra legroom or preferred locations cost more.
• Fare Class: Budget Economy Light tickets face the most frequent and higher fees.

While prices fluctuate, expect fees to range roughly between $10 to $50 USD per seat selection, with premium seats costing more. It’s important to check your booking details to see the applicable charges.

When to Pay the Lufthansa Seat Selection Fee

You can pay the Lufthansa seat selection fee at different stages:

• During Booking: Most passengers are offered the option to select and pay for their preferred seat immediately during the booking process.
• After Booking: If you didn’t select a seat during booking, you can usually do so later through Lufthansa’s website or mobile app, although availability may be limited.
• During Online Check-In: For some fare classes, seat selection is only available at the time of online check-in (typically 23 hours before departure), at which point options may be limited, and fees may apply.

How to Avoid or Minimize Lufthansa Seat Selection Fees

If you want to save money on seat selection, here are some practical tips:

1. Book Higher Fare Classes: Purchasing a standard Economy ticket instead of Economy Light usually includes free seat selection.
2. Check-In Early: Seats are assigned randomly during check-in for Economy Light passengers who don’t pay the fee. Checking in as soon as it opens can help you get better seats without paying extra.
3. Be Flexible: If you’re comfortable with a randomly assigned seat, avoid paying the seat selection fee.
4. Use Lufthansa’s Mobile App: Sometimes seat changes or upgrades can be done at no cost closer to departure.
5. Consider Upgrading: Upgrading to Premium Economy or Business Class includes complimentary seat selection and additional comfort.

Benefits of Paying the Lufthansa Seat Selection Fee

While it might seem like an extra cost, paying the Lufthansa seat selection fee can be worth it for many passengers:

• Guaranteed Seat: You ensure you sit where you want, whether that’s a window for the views or an aisle for easy access.
• Extra Comfort: Choosing extra legroom seats can make a long flight significantly more comfortable.
• Traveling Together: If you’re flying with family or friends, paying to select seats together can make the trip more enjoyable.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay the Seat Selection Fee?

If your ticket requires a seat selection fee and you choose not to pay it, Lufthansa will assign a seat automatically during check-in. This could mean sitting apart from travel companions or getting a less desirable spot near lavatories or the back of the plane.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lufthansa Seat Selection Fee

Can I change my seat after paying the Lufthansa seat selection fee?

Yes, depending on availability, you can change your seat before the flight, but some airlines may charge a fee for changes. Lufthansa’s policies can vary, so check the latest terms when making changes.

Are children charged the seat selection fee?

Children’s seat selection fees usually follow the same rules as adults, but infants traveling on laps do not require seats.

Does Lufthansa charge for seat selection on award tickets?

Award tickets booked with miles often have different policies. Sometimes seat selection is complimentary, but this depends on the specific fare and route.