Here's Why Any Airline Can Change The Seat You're In Even If You Paid Extra For It

There are some things you probably don't know airlines are allowed to do. And as a passenger, you will be well within your rights if you ask questions about things you find strange or unfair. Okay, look at it this way. You have forked out an extra amount just to enjoy a comfortable space in the cabin. You might have paid for a window seat, extra legroom, or even a specific spot at the front of the plane only for the airline to swap your seat at the last minute, leaving you frustrated. The more frustrating thing is that some of these reassignments may come with no explanations. It just feels like a silent betrayal, as if the seat you claimed was only a promise written in air.

Did you know that airlines have the power to move your seat no matter how much you have paid? The swap is usually due to operational or safety concerns. While airlines are bound to take you to your destination, they're not necessarily under any obligation to assign you your desired seat. When you buy an airline ticket, the contract you've signed is that of carriage, not of seat. Every other thing that happens concerning the seat assignment is beyond your control. It's theirs to decide, and there's probably a good reason for it.

Even after employing strategies for scoring the best seat on the airplane, your seat can get swapped. First, there are clauses in every airline's terms and conditions, if you read very well. There is one that specifically states that seat assignments are not guaranteed. In fact, even premium seats like exit rows, extra legroom, or even bulkhead are also not without disclaimers. The airline has the exclusive right to change any of these as they deem fit, either for operational, safety, or security reasons. Sometimes an airline can swap planes either because of maintenance or scheduling. And since all aircrafts are not built the same way, the difference in seating layout might mean that your reserved seat may not even exist.

Another reason you don't tend to get your desired seat might be because of weight distribution for safety concerns. Occasionally, airlines rearrange passengers to bring about a balance in weight across the aircraft. They can also move passengers in emergency exit rows if they find out that they are not fit to operate the exit. It may be because of their age or physical abilities.

If a seat change happens to you, it's wise to handle it politely. Walk up to the gate agent, and ask if you can get a similar seat or somewhere a little more comfortable. And if you're moved after you've paid extra, then you're entitled to a refund if the new seat selection is a downgrade. You can either ask at the airport or file it later via customer service. Although different airlines have different policies, most carriers will refund seat fees especially when they move you without your full consent.

Still, the issue of seat changes may not necessarily come from the airline. There are scenarios where you get your dream seat but still encounter passengers who will ask to swap seats. On this, saying no could be optimal — as it's sometimes best to reject an airplane seat swap request. All in all, if there's one thing you need to do to avoid an unwanted surprise in the dying minutes, it's booking your seat early. You should also check your booking regularly afterwards, so that you will be able to know on time if your seat changes: This will give you time to either select another seat or call the airline for solutions before your flight.