Picking a seat on Etihad can make a big difference! It is true especially on long flights. Some travelers want the aisle. Others care about legroom. The problem? Many don’t know when or how to lock in the seat they want. Etihad gives options, but not all seats are free, and not all routes follow the same rules. If you booked through a third party, it gets even trickier. This guide by Air1Network breaks it down. It shows clear steps and no guesswork. Get the seat you want—before check-in, & without waiting until the last minute.
What is the Etihad Seat Selection Policy?
The key takeaways of Etihad Airways seat selection policy is:
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Seat selection is available during or after booking. And during check-in.
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Standard seats are free for Economy passengers at check-in (within 30 hours of departure).
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Extra legroom, Economy Space, & preferred seats come at an extra fee.
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The earlier you choose, the more options you’ll get! Especially for long-haul routes.
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Guests in Business and First Class can select seats anytime at ZERO charge.
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Etihad Guest Platinum & Gold members may get free seat selection.
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Seat fees are non-refundable. It is unless Etihad changes your seat for operational reasons.
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Group bookings & third-party bookings might have limited access to Etihad choose seats.
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You can upgrade to a better Etihad seat anytime.
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Children under 12 seated with an adult usually get seats assigned together without extra charges.
You can reach out to Etihad at 1 (914) 303-8393 or 1-844-414-9223 to know more.
Which Seats are the Best in Etihad Flights?
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In Etihad Economy, the best seats are usually exit rows and front-row bulkheads. More legroom, quicker exit. Just know—some exit row seats don’t recline.
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Want peace? Avoid rows near the galley or toilets. Go for a window seat, toward the back. Less foot traffic.
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In Business Class, solo travelers prefer window-side seats with direct aisle access. These are private and quiet. The A350 and 787 cabins offer staggered layouts. Some seats feel more spacious than others.
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Middle seats in Business? Better for couples. Quick aisle access and a bit more room to stretch.
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First Class is simple. Every seat is a suite. Go for ones far from the galley or lavatory for less noise.
Each cabin has a sweet spot. The trick is knowing what matters: space, quiet, or a faster exit. Do Etihad choose seats at 1 (914) 303-8393 or 1-844-414-9223 accordingly.
How much do I have to pay to Select Etihad Seats?
Standard Etihad flight seat selection starts at around $10–$30 USD, depending on the route and seat location. These are regular aisle, middle, or window seats in standard rows.
If you want preferred seats you’ll likely pay Etihad seat selection fee of $20–$60 USD. These get you off the plane faster, which helps for tight connections.
Extra legroom seats are priced higher. Expect $50–$180 USD, depending on distance and aircraft type. These are near exit rows or bulkheads, with more space to stretch.
Economy Space seats offer more pitch than regular seats. These usually cost $30–$120 USD, and are separate from standard extra legroom seats.
Business and First Class passengers don’t pay for Etihad airways seat selection.
If you’re an Etihad Guest Gold or Platinum member, you may get free or discounted seat selection on some fares.
What is the Etihad Pick Seats Process?
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Visit the Etihad Airways website or open the mobile app.
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Click on “Manage” or “Manage My Booking.”
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Enter your booking reference and last name.
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Select your flight segment from the booking summary.
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Choose “Select Seats” or “Change Seats” option.
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View the seat map and available options.
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Click on your preferred seat to select it.
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Review any fees displayed for that seat.
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Confirm your Etihad pick seats and proceed to payment (if required).
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Save the updated booking confirmation with seat details.
The goal of this page is to show you Etihad seat selection doesn’t need to turn into a guessing game. Just use Etihad Manage Booking tool early & don’t wait until check-in. If you're stuck, or the system blocks your seat, skip the hassle. Just speak to someone who knows how it works. Call Air1Network or Etihad at 1 (914) 303-8393 or 1-844-414-9223 and connect with us. Real help, no bots. You’ll get answers fast—and lock in the seat you want without digging through Etihad’s fine print. Simple. That’s how you handle seat selection the right way.
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