Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection: Everything You Need to Know Before You Fly
When booking a flight, one of the most important decisions you’ll make after choosing your destination is where you’ll sit on the plane. Whether you’re flying short-haul or long-haul, your seat can significantly impact your comfort and overall travel experience. If you’re traveling with Germany’s flagship carrier, understanding how Lufthansa Airlines seat selection works can help you fly smarter and more comfortably.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Lufthansa Airlines seat selection, including the different types of seats, the selection process, potential fees, and insider tips to help you get the best seat possible.
Why Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection Matters
Choosing your seat may seem like a small detail, but it can affect your entire flight. From extra legroom and proximity to restrooms to window views or quick exits, your seat can make or break the experience—especially on longer journeys.
Lufthansa, as a full-service international airline, provides passengers with a range of seating options, catering to different comfort levels and travel budgets. Understanding how Lufthansa Airlines seat selection works allows you to make an informed decision and avoid last-minute stress at check-in.
When Can You Choose Your Seat on Lufthansa?
The process of Lufthansa Airlines seat selection starts at the time of booking. Most passengers are given the option to select their seat during the online booking process. However, you can also choose or change your seat later through the “My Bookings” section on Lufthansa’s website or mobile app.
Passengers can typically select their seats:
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During the initial flight booking
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After booking by managing your reservation
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During online check-in (up to 23 hours before departure)
It’s always recommended to choose your seat as early as possible to ensure availability, especially if you have specific preferences.
Types of Seats Available with Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection
Lufthansa offers a range of seat types depending on your travel class: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class. Each class comes with different seating configurations and comfort levels. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
1. Economy Class
Standard seats in Economy offer average legroom and seat width. You can pay extra for preferred seats such as:
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Aisle or window seats
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Front-row seats (closer to the aircraft door)
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Exit row seats (extra legroom)
2. Premium Economy Class
Passengers in Premium Economy enjoy wider seats, more legroom, and extra amenities. Seat selection in this class may be complimentary or discounted depending on your fare type.
3. Business Class
Business Class seats offer more space, lie-flat capabilities on long-haul flights, and premium service. Seat selection is usually included in the fare, and passengers can choose from spacious configurations, including window or aisle seats in various arrangements.
4. First Class
First Class passengers receive the highest level of comfort with fully private seating, maximum legroom, and top-tier service. Seat selection is free and flexible.
Fees for Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection
Whether or not you need to pay for Lufthansa Airlines seat selection depends on your ticket type and travel class. Here’s what to expect:
Economy Class
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Standard seat: May be free or available for a small fee depending on fare.
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Preferred seat (front of cabin): Additional fee.
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Extra legroom (exit row): Higher fee, often only available to passengers meeting safety requirements.
Premium Economy
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Seat selection may be included or available at a reduced cost.
Business and First Class
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Seat selection is generally free of charge.
Fees vary by route, seat type, and booking class. Some frequent flyer status levels may allow free seat selection, so it’s worth checking if you’re part of Lufthansa’s Miles & More program.
How to Make Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection
Making your Lufthansa Airlines seat selection is straightforward. You can do it in the following ways:
1. During Booking
Most travelers will see the seat map during the booking process and can select their seat immediately.
2. After Booking
Go to Lufthansa’s official website or mobile app, navigate to “My Bookings,” and enter your last name and booking code. From there, you can select or change your seat.
3. During Online Check-In
If you haven’t selected a seat yet, online check-in (which opens 23 hours before departure) is your last chance to choose one before arriving at the airport.
Tips for Getting the Best Seat
Want to make the most out of your Lufthansa Airlines seat selection? Keep these tips in mind:
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Book Early: The sooner you book, the more seat choices you’ll have.
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Consider Seat Reviews: Check seat maps and passenger reviews to identify the most comfortable options.
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Choose Exit Rows for Legroom: If legroom is a priority, aim for exit row seats (just note the eligibility requirements).
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Traveling in a Pair?: Select a window and aisle in a row of three to increase the chances of an empty middle seat.
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Avoid Seats Near Lavatories: These can be noisy and have more foot traffic.
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Use Frequent Flyer Status: Members of Lufthansa’s Miles & More program may get access to better seating options at no extra cost.
Can You Change Your Seat After Booking?
Yes, you can change your seat after booking, provided that seats are still available. Simply go to “My Bookings” and update your selection. Be aware that if you originally selected a paid seat, changing it may incur a fee unless your new seat is of equal or lesser value.