Navigating Virgin Australia Seat Selection can be simple once you know the rules. This guide breaks down everything from whether Seat Selection is free to how much it costs for different fare types. We'll show you how to choose seats online, pinpoint the best seats in Economy, and help you understand if extra legroom is worth it. You’ll also learn how to manage your booking to change seats and what to do if the airline reassigns you. You’ll also learn how to manage your booking, what happens if you don’t choose a seat, and what to do if the airline changes your seat. To make things even better, we include tips on booking during Valentine’s Day Deals, where flight deals can go up to 50% off when booked through Airlines Deals Hub +1-855-662-5620.
What Is Virgin Australia’s Seat Selection Policy
Let’s start with the basics. If you’ve ever been stuck in a middle seat far from the window or your travel companions, you know how important it is to understand an airline’s seat policy. Virgin Australia’s Seat Selection policy is the set of rules that determines how, when, and at what cost you can pick where you’ll sit on your flight. It’s not a one-size-fits-all system; it’s intricately tied to the type of ticket you purchase. Essentially, the policy is designed to offer flexibility and choice, but often for an additional fee, especially on their more budget-friendly fares. This means your ability to choose that coveted window seat or ensure your family sits together isn’t automatic—it’s a feature you may need to actively secure.
The core principle behind Virgin Australia’s policy is that the value and inclusions of your fare bundle dictate your privileges. It’s a tiered approach. Think of it like buying a car the base model gets you from A to B, but if you want to choose the color (or in this case, your seat), you might need to opt for an upgraded package. This system manages the aircraft's seating inventory, allows the airline to offer lower base fares, and gives travelers the option to pay only for the extras they truly want. For a traveler, understanding this policy is the first step to taking control of your flight experience, avoiding surprises at the airport, and starting your journey on the right foot, feeling prepared and in charge.
From a practical standpoint, the policy covers everything from the initial booking process to last-minute changes at check-in. It answers critical questions Can I pick my seat for free What if I don’t choose one How do I sit with my kids In the following sections, we’ll dissect each part of this policy. Virgin Australia also allows Seat Selection through Virgin Australia manage booking, which is helpful if your plans change. If you booked through Airlines Deals Hub +1-855-662-5620, you can also get guidance on choosing the best seats and managing changes easily.
Virgin Australia Seat Selection cost Is Seat Selection Free on Virgin Australia Flights
This is the million-dollar question, and the answer is it depends. “Is Seat Selection free” is often the first thing travelers ask, hoping to save a few extra dollars. With Virgin Australia, Seat Selection is not universally free. Whether you pay depends almost entirely on the fare type you booked. The airline structures its fares Getaway, Elevate, and Freedom to offer different levels of service and flexibility. The Getaway fare, being the most economical, typically does not include complimentary Seat Selection. You are purchasing the basic transport, and choosing your specific seat is considered an additional amenity.
On the other hand, if you book an Elevate or Freedom fare, you are often granted complimentary standard Seat Selection at the time of booking. This is part of the added value of these bundles. It’s crucial to read the fare inclusions carefully during the booking process. The distinction is important because the Virgin Australia Seat Selection cost can add up, especially for families or groups. If you’re on a tight budget and have booked a Getaway fare, you need to factor in the potential additional cost of selecting seats, or be prepared to take your chances with an automatically assigned seat at check-in.
So, how can you find out for your specific booking The easiest way is during the online booking process on the Virgin Australia website. As you progress through the steps, after entering passenger details, you’ll reach the seat map. If you’re on a fare that includes free selection, you’ll be able to pick from the available standard seats at no charge. If your fare doesn’t include it, the system will display a fee for each seat you select. You can also check your booking summary or use the Virgin Australia manage booking portal after purchase to see your fare’s inclusions and any associated costs for Seat Selection. Knowing this upfront helps you budget accurately and avoid frustration later.
Virgin Australia Seat Selection online How Much Does Seat Selection Cost on Virgin Australia
Now that we know it’s not always free, let’s talk numbers. “How much is Seat Selection on Virgin Australia” is a practical question with a variable answer. The Virgin Australia Seat Selection cost isn’t a flat fee; it varies based on the flight route (domestic short-haul vs. longer domestic or international), the seat type (standard vs. extra legroom), and the timing of your selection (at booking vs. later). Generally, for a standard seat on a domestic Getaway fare, you might expect to pay anywhere from $4 to $15 per passenger, per flight segment. For international flights or premium seats like Exit Rows or “Up Front” seating, the cost can be significantly higher, sometimes ranging from $25 to $60 or more.
The process is seamlessly integrated into the Virgin Australia Seat Selection online system. When you proceed to the seat map, available seats are typically color-coded or have price tags over them. Standard seats will show one price (or be marked as complimentary), while seats with extra legroom, like exit rows or the first few rows of Economy, will show a higher price. It’s a transparent system—you see the cost before you commit. This allows you to make an informed decision. Is paying $10 for a window seat worth it for a two-hour flight Maybe. Is $40 for extra legroom on a five-hour red-eye essential That’s a personal value judgment we’ll explore later.
It’s also worth noting that fees can change. Airlines, including Virgin Australia, may adjust these ancillary fees based on demand, route popularity, or seasonal factors. For example, during peak travel times like school holidays or around Valentine's Day, the demand for preferred seating might be higher. This is where planning ahead can save you money. Selecting your seats as early as possible after booking often locks in the current rate and guarantees a wider selection. Using the Virgin Australia manage booking function regularly to review your trip details can help you stay on top of any changes or opportunities to select seats if you initially opted out.
How Do You Select Seats on Virgin Australia Flights
Okay, you’re ready to pick your spot. The Virgin Australia Seat Selection online process is designed to be user-friendly. Here is a clear, step-by-step guide on how to do it, whether you’re making a new booking or modifying an existing one.
Step 1 Start Your Booking or Access Manage My Booking.
If you’re booking a new flight, you’ll naturally reach the Seat Selection step after filling in passenger and payment details. If you’ve already booked and want to add or change seats, go to the Virgin Australia website and find the “Manage My Booking” section. You’ll need your booking reference (also called a PNR or locator) and the lead passenger’s last name.
Step 2 Navigate to the Seat Map.
Once in your booking, look for an option labeled “Select Seats” or “Choose Seats.” Clicking this will launch the interactive seat map for your flight. The map will display the aircraft layout, showing which seats are already taken (usually marked with a darker color or an “X”), which are available for free selection (if your fare includes it), and which are available for a fee.
Step 3 Understand the Seat Map Interface.
Take a moment to familiarize yourself. Different colors or icons represent different things
Green/Blue & No Price Likely complimentary standard seats for your fare type.
Seats with a Price Tag These require payment. The tag will show the exact Virgin Australia Seat Selection cost for that specific seat.
Blocked/Grayed Out Seats These are unavailable. They may be reserved for crew use, broken, or held for operational reasons.
Preferred/Extra Legroom Seats Often marked with a special icon (like a star or a person with more space) and a higher price.
Step 4 Select Your Seats.
Click on your desired seat(s). If you’re traveling with others, you’ll need to select a seat for each passenger on the itinerary. The system will usually try to auto-select adjacent seats if you click on one, but you can manually adjust each person. A summary of your selections and the total cost (if any) will appear, often in a sidebar or at the bottom of the screen.
Step 5 Review and Pay.
Double-check your selections! Make sure you’ve chosen the correct flight leg (for multi-segment trips) and the right seats for your group. If there’s a fee, you’ll proceed to a secure payment page to finalize the transaction with your credit or debit card. Once payment is confirmed, your new seat assignments will be immediately updated in your booking. You should receive a revised itinerary via email. It’s always a good idea to log back into Virgin Australia manage booking a day or two before your flight to reconfirm your seats.
What Are the Best Seats on Virgin Australia Economy Class
Choosing a seat isn’t just about a number and a letter; it’s about crafting your in-flight experience. So, what makes a seat the “best” in Virgin Australia’s Economy Class The answer is subjective and depends on your personal travel priorities, but we can break down the pros and cons of different areas of the cabin.
The Front Rows of Economy (Rows 3-5 on many aircraft) Often branded as “Preferred Seats,” these come with a fee but offer significant advantages. You’ll be among the first to disembark the plane, saving precious time if you have a tight connection. You’re also closer to the front galley, which can sometimes mean earlier meal service. The ride can feel slightly smoother and quieter farther forward. However, these seats may have reduced under-seat storage due to entertainment boxes or may not recline on some aircraft configurations. It’s a trade-off between convenience and potential comfort restrictions.
Exit Row and Bulkhead Seats This is the holy grail for legroom seekers. Exit row seats have dramatically more space to stretch out. Bulkhead seats (the first row of a cabin section, with a wall in front) also offer unlimited legroom and are often ideal for travelers with infants, as bassinets can be attached here. The major cons Storage for your personal items must go in the overhead bins for takeoff and landing, trays are often in the armrests making them immovable, and you might be near the lavatories or galleys, which can mean more foot traffic and noise. These seats are almost always a paid upgrade and have strict eligibility requirements (you must be able and willing to assist in an emergency).
Standard Window and Aisle Seats For many, the classic “best seat” is a simple window or aisle in the middle of the cabin. A window offers a place to rest your head, a view, and control over the shade. An aisle provides easy access to get up without disturbing anyone, crucial on longer flights. When selecting these, consider a few tips Avoid seats immediately in front of an exit row, as they may not recline. Seats near the wings offer the most stable ride (least turbulence), while those at the very back can be noisier near the engines and lavatories but are often close to the rear galley for drink refills.
Seats to Generally Avoid Middle seats are the obvious choice to skip if you can. Also, be wary of the last rows of the plane. They are often close to the lavatories, meaning constant line traffic, flushing noises, and potential odors. These seats also recline the least (or not at all) since there’s a wall behind them, and you’ll be the very last to disembark.
Are Extra Legroom or Preferred Seats Worth It on Virgin Australia
This is a value judgment that every traveler must make. Is the additional Virgin Australia Seat Selection cost for these premium spots justified Let’s weigh the factors to help you decide.
When It’s DEFINITELY Worth It
For Long-Haul Flights On flights over four hours, especially international sectors, your physical comfort becomes paramount. Extra legroom can be the difference between arriving stiff and sore or feeling relatively refreshed. The ability to stretch and shift position is a game-changer for circulation and overall well-being.
If You’re Tall or Have Mobility Needs If your knees press against the seatback in a standard seat, the upgrade isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. The additional space significantly improves comfort and reduces the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long journeys.
For Peace and Productivity Exit rows and front rows often have fewer neighbors (sometimes only one person next to you in a 2-seat exit row configuration). This can mean fewer disturbances, making it easier to work on a laptop, read, or sleep.
Tight Connections If you have a short window to catch your next flight, being in a Preferred Seat at the front of Economy means you can be among the first off the plane, giving you a crucial head start through the airport.
When You Might SKIP the Upgrade
For Short Domestic Hops On a one-hour flight from Sydney to Melbourne, the extra legroom provides minimal practical benefit. You’ll barely have time to settle in before you’re preparing to land.
If You’re on a Very Tight Budget If the choice is between selecting any seat or paying for baggage or in-flight meals, prioritize the essentials. You can always try your luck at check-in for a better standard seat.
If You Value Underseat Storage Remember, exit row seats require you to stow everything overhead during critical phases of flight. If you like easy access to your bag, a standard aisle seat might be a better compromise.
If You’re Traveling with Young Children Note that exit row seats are prohibited for passengers with children or infants. Your priority will be sitting together, which may be easier to achieve with standard Seat Selection.
Ultimately, “worth it” is personal. Consider the flight length, your body size, your budget, and the importance of a stress-free deplaning process. It’s an investment in your comfort, and only you can decide the return.
Can You Change Your Seat After Booking on Virgin Australia (Virgin Australia manage booking)
Yes, you absolutely can! The question “can i change my seat on Virgin Australia” has a positive answer, and the primary tool for this is the Virgin Australia manage booking portal. This is your travel control center. Whether you’ve had a change of heart, need to accommodate a new travel companion, or simply spotted a better seat that’s become available, changing your seat is usually straightforward.
How to Change Your Seat
Log into “Manage My Booking” on the Virgin Australia website.
Select the passenger and flight segment for which you want to change the seat.
Click on “Change Seats” or a similar link to reopen the seat map.
The interface will show your current assignment and all other available seats. You can click on a new available seat.
Important If you are moving from a complimentary seat to a paid Preferred Seat, you will be charged the difference. If you are moving from a paid seat to a cheaper or free seat, Virgin Australia’s policy on refunds varies. Typically, Seat Selection fees are non-refundable, but it’s always worth checking the specific terms at the time of change or contacting their customer service.
Confirm the change and pay any additional fee if required. Your itinerary will update instantly.
Timing and AvailabilityYou can change your seat multiple times up until online check-in closes (usually a few hours before departure). However, availability is dynamic. The best seats get taken first. It’s a good habit to check the seat map periodically after booking, as people change their plans, and premium seats can sometimes be released or become available. If you initially didn’t pay for Seat Selection and later decide you want to, you can do so through this same process—you’ll just be prompted to pay the prevailing fee for your chosen seat.
Do Fare Types Affect Seat Selection on Virgin Australia
This is one of the most critical factors in the entire Seat Selection equation. In short, yes, your fare type profoundly affects your Seat Selection privileges and costs. Virgin Australia’s fare structure is built on choice you choose what you pay for.
Getaway Fare (The most economical) This is a basic, no-frills fare. It typically includes hand luggage and a seat on the plane, but Seat Selection is not free. You will need to pay an additional fee to choose a specific seat, whether it’s a standard seat or an upgrade. If you don’t pay, you’ll be assigned a seat for free at check-in. This fare is ideal for price-sensitive travelers who are flexible about where they sit.
Elevate Fare (The flexible choice) This middle-tier fare includes more value. Along with checked baggage and greater flexibility for flight changes, it usually includes complimentary standard Seat Selection at the time of booking. This means you can pick from the available standard seats on the seat map without paying an extra fee. If you want an Extra Legroom or Preferred Seat, you would still pay the upgrade cost.
Freedom Fare (The most inclusive) This is the premium economy-lite option on Virgin Australia. It offers the highest level of flexibility, lounge access (where eligible), and other perks. Like the Elevate fare, it includes complimentary standard Seat Selection. The key difference may be in the availability or pricing of upgrade seats, but the standard Seat Selection benefit is consistent.
Understanding this hierarchy is vital. When comparing flight prices, always look at the total cost. A Getaway fare plus paid Seat Selection for two people might end up costing close to an Elevate fare that includes seats, baggage, and better change terms. The Virgin Australia Seat Selection cost should be part of your overall fare comparison, not an afterthought.
Are Seats Assigned Automatically If You Don’t Choose One
Yes, they are. If you do not actively select a seat—either because you chose not to pay for it on a Getaway fare or simply forgot—Virgin Australia’s system will automatically assign you a seat before or during the check-in process. This ensures every passenger has a designated spot on the aircraft. The automatic assignment process is algorithm-driven and considers factors like aircraft weight and balance, fare class, and loyalty status (though status can sometimes lead to a better auto-assignment).
What does this mean for you It means you will always have a seat. You won’t be left behind. However, you relinquish control. The algorithm’s goal is operational efficiency, not your personal comfort. You are far more likely to be assigned a less desirable seat
Middle seats are the most common auto-assignments, as they are the last to be chosen by paying customers.
Seats at the very back of the plane.
Seats separated from your travel companions. If you’re traveling with family or friends and don’t select seats together, the system will assign individual seats wherever there is space. There is no guarantee you will be seated together.
For solo travelers who don’t mind where they sit, this can be a way to save money. But for groups, families, or anyone with a strong seat preference, relying on auto-assignment is a risky strategy that can lead to a disjointed and uncomfortable start to your trip.
Can Families Sit Together on Virgin Australia Flights
This is a major source of anxiety for parents. Virgin Australia understands this and makes efforts to seat young children next to at least one accompanying adult, but they strongly recommend that families take proactive steps to guarantee this. Relying on automatic assignments or the kindness of other passengers at the gate is not a reliable plan.
How to Ensure Your Family Sits Together
Book and Select Seats Early This is the single most effective action. As soon as you book your flights, proceed directly to Seat Selection. The earlier you do this, the more contiguous blocks of seats will be available, especially in the standard seating area.
Use the Manage Booking Tool If seats together weren’t available when you first booked, don’t give up. Use the Virgin Australia manage booking portal regularly to check the seat map. People change and cancel plans, and seats open up. You might be able to move your family into a newly available block.
Consider Your Fare Type If you are booking a large family on Getaway fares, the cost of selecting seats for everyone can add up significantly. It might be worth pricing the Elevate fare, where Seat Selection is included, as the total difference might be less than you think and provides peace of mind.
Contact Virgin Australia Directly If you are struggling to find seats together online, call Virgin Australia’s customer service. Their agents have access to the same seat map but can sometimes assist in complex seating puzzles or explain options you might not see online. For personalized assistance with family seating or special offers, you can also reach out to experts at Airlines Seat Selection policy hub at +1-855-662-5620.
Check-In the Moment It Opens Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure. If you still don’t have seats together, be ready to check in exactly at that time. This is when any remaining seats (including those held back or released from group blocks) become available for selection, sometimes at no extra cost. It’s your last best chance to arrange your family on the plane.
Virgin Australia’s policy aims to help, but the responsibility ultimately falls on the booking adult to secure the seats. Planning ahead is the key to a stress-free family travel experience.
Can You Select Seats at Check-In on Virgin Australia
Yes, Seat Selection at check-in is possible and is often the last free opportunity to choose a seat. When online check-in opens (usually 24 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure), you can access the seat map again. At this stage, many of the standard seats that were previously held back or reserved for operational reasons are released into the general inventory. This means you might find aisle or window seats that were showing as unavailable or for a fee during the booking period.
The Check-In Seat Selection Process
Go to the Virgin Australia website or app to check in.
After entering your details, you will be presented with a boarding pass and, crucially, an option to “Select Seats” or “Change Seats.”
The seat map will display all remaining available seats. Seats that are still part of a paid upgrade category (like Extra Legroom) will typically still carry a fee.
You can choose from the available standard seats at no additional cost, even if you were on a Getaway fare. This is the “free selection at check-in” perk.
Confirm your choice, and your boarding pass will be updated.
The Catch The selection at check-in is “while supplies last.” By the time check-in opens, the plane is likely 80-90% full. Your choices will be limited. You are unlikely to find multiple seats together for a group, and the most desirable standard seats (front of cabin, window/aisle pairs) are usually long gone. It’s a great option for solo travelers or couples who are flexible, but it’s not a strategy for families or those with specific needs. Think of it as a bonus round—you might get lucky, but you shouldn’t count on it.
What Happens If Virgin Australia Changes Your Seat
Occasionally, operational issues force an airline to change your carefully selected seat. This can happen due to
Aircraft Change Your flight is now operated by a different type of plane with a different seat layout.
Operational Requirements Weight and balance calculations, or a last-minute need to accommodate crew or passengers with special needs.
Seat Out of Service Your selected seat is discovered to be faulty (e.g., won’t recline, broken entertainment screen).
If this happens, Virgin Australia will typically reassign you to a seat in the same cabin class. They will usually try to match the “value” of your original seat—if you paid for an exit row, they should try to put you in another premium seat. However, this is not guaranteed. You will be notified of the change, often via email or through the Virgin Australia manage booking portal.
What You Should Do
Check Your New Assignment Immediately As soon as you get the notification, log in and see where you’ve been moved.
Contact Customer Service if Unhappy If your new seat is unacceptable (e.g., you paid for a window and got a middle, or your family has been split up), call Virgin Australia right away. Politely explain the situation. Since the change was on their end, they are usually more accommodating in finding a suitable alternative, even if it means moving other passengers.
Be Proactive at the Airport If you couldn’t resolve it over the phone, speak to the gate agents. They have the final authority over seat assignments on the day of travel and can sometimes work miracles, especially if you have a compelling reason (like traveling with small children).
While inconvenient, these changes are rare. Keeping a close eye on your booking in the days before travel helps you catch any such changes early when there are still more options to fix them.
Read More - Click To Read More Airlines Seat Selection Policy
Seasonal Travel Tip Valentine's Day Deals & Planning
Planning a romantic getaway Valentine's Day is a popular time to travel, and seats—especially pairs of good seats—sell out quickly. Virgin Australia and other carriers often launch Valentine's day Deals Flight deals up to 50% off in the lead-up. Here’s how to combine scoring a deal with securing great seats
Book Early, Even with a Deal When you see a promotional fare, jump on it. Then, immediately proceed to Seat Selection. A deal on the flight is wasted if you end up separated or in poor seats.
Look for Package Inclusions Sometimes, sale fares that include Seat Selection (like Elevate) are part of the promotion. This can offer the best of both worlds—savings and guaranteed comfort.
Consider the “Experience” For a special occasion like Valentine's Day, investing in Preferred Seats with extra space or a quieter location might be worth it to enhance the romantic, relaxed vibe of your trip. View the seat fee as part of your celebration budget.
Set Alerts Use fare alert tools and keep an eye on the Virgin Australia website and their partners, like Airlines Seat Selection policy hub, for these seasonal sales. Planning your Virgin Australia Seat Selection strategy should go hand-in-hand with snagging the best fare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much is Seat Selection on Virgin Australia for an international flightThe cost varies greatly depending on the route, seat type, and when you select. For a standard seat on a Getaway fare, it could start around $15-$30 per sector. For Extra Legroom or exit row seats on long-haul flights, fees can range from $45 to $100 or more. Always check the seat map during your specific booking for the exact price.
2. Can I get a refund if I paid for a seat but then cancel my flightVirgin Australia’s Seat Selection fees are generally non-refundable if you cancel your flight voluntarily. However, if Virgin Australia cancels your flight or significantly changes your schedule, you are typically entitled to a refund of all ancillary fees, including Seat Selection, if you choose not to travel.
3. Are there any free seats on Virgin AustraliaYes, in two ways 1) If you book an Elevate or Freedom fare, standard Seat Selection is free at booking. 2) If you are on any fare and do not select a seat, you will be assigned one for free at check-in (though you give up choice).
4. Is it better to select seats online or at the airportAlways online and as early as possible. Online selection gives you the widest choice and the ability to secure seats together. Airport selection (at the kiosk or counter) is a last resort with very limited options.
5. Do Velocity members get free Seat SelectionVelocity Silver, Gold, and Platinum members enjoy complimentary standard Seat Selection on all fares, including Getaway, when traveling on Virgin Australia-operated flights. This is a key benefit of loyalty status.
6. What is the difference between a “Preferred Seat” and an “Extra Legroom Seat”Terminology can vary, but generally, “Preferred Seats” are often the front rows of Economy, offering early deplaning and potentially a quieter cabin. “Extra Legroom Seats” (like exit rows and bulkheads) are specifically defined by the physical space they provide. Both are paid upgrades.
7. Can I select a seat for my infant on lapInfants traveling on an adult’s lap do not get their own seat. You should select a seat for the adult holding the infant. If you want a bassinet (cot), you need to select a suitable bulkhead seat and request the bassinet in advance through Manage My Booking or customer service.
8. What if all seats are showing as paidIf the seat map shows a fee on every single seat, it usually means you are on a Getaway fare and the complimentary standard Seat Selection period (if any) has passed, or those seats are taken. You may need to pay for a seat or wait for free assignment at check-in.
9. How do I know which seat map corresponds to my aircraftThe Seat Selection page usually states the aircraft type (e.g., Boeing 737-800, Airbus A330). You can use this information to look up detailed seat maps on third-party websites to see exact legroom measurements and seat layouts for better decision-making.
10. I’m traveling with a disability. How do I ensure an appropriate seatIt is best to contact Virgin Australia directly after booking. They can assign you seats that meet your needs, such as aisle seats for easier access, seats with movable armrests, or positions near lavatories. Do not rely solely on the online seat map for these requirements.