Planning a trip with Air Transat? This guide explains when and how to choose seats on Air Transat flights to avoid last-minute stress. We break down the Air Transat seat selection process, fees, free options, and upgrade paths. You will learn about air transat seat selection fee, how to select seats after booking, and the best time to lock in your spot. Whether you are flying Economy or Business Class, this post uses real traveler insights to help you make confident choices. If you need personal help, contact AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620.
When Can You Choose Seats on Air Transat Flights
Choosing your seat at the right time can make or break your travel comfort. On Air Transat, the window for Air Transat seat selection depends heavily on your fare type and when you complete your booking. If you have ever rushed to the airport only to find middle seats everywhere, you know the frustration. Air Transat allows seat selection as early as the moment you book, but not everyone gets the same timing. For travelers who book Economy Class tickets with the lowest fare, seat selection might only open 24 hours before departure. This is where the air transat seat selection 24 hours rule becomes very important.
For those flying in Air Transat Business Class or higher-tier Economy fares, you can pick seats immediately after purchasing your ticket. The airline uses a staggered release system to manage its cabin layout. Think of it like a concert ticket sale: premium ticket holders get early access. The air transat seat map becomes available for selection as soon as your reservation is confirmed. However, if you wait too long, desirable seats like exit rows or window spots may disappear.
You might be wondering: can you choose seats before check-in? Yes, but only if your fare includes advance selection. Otherwise, you must wait for the online check-in window. That window typically opens 24 hours before departure. At that point, seat selection Air Transat becomes free for all passengers, but only from the remaining inventory. If you are traveling with family or need extra legroom, waiting until the last minute is risky. The airline often blocks certain seats for elite members or full-fare payers until the last few hours.
To avoid disappointment, always check your fare conditions at booking. The Air Transat seat selection after booking process is possible but may require a fee. In short, you can choose seats from the moment of booking up until 60 minutes before departure. But the cost and availability change along the way. If you need help understanding your specific booking window, AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 can walk you through your options.
Step-by-Step Timing Breakdown:
At booking (0 days): Available for Business Class, Club Class, and premium Economy fares.
After booking (anytime): Possible via “Manage Booking” with air transat seat selection fee.
24 hours before departure: Free air transat seat selection 24 hours for all passengers.
At airport kiosk (less than 1 hour): Only remaining seats, no guarantee of preference.
How Do You Select Seats on Air Transat Flights
The actual process of Air Transat seat selection is straightforward once you know where to click. Many first-time flyers get lost on the airline’s website, but I will guide you like a friend showing you around. You have three main methods: online during booking, post-booking via “Manage My Booking,” or using the mobile app. Each method gives you access to the same air transat seat map, but the price might differ.
Let us start with the easiest way: when you buy your ticket on Air Transat’s official site, after you enter passenger details, you will see a seat map. Here, you can click on any available seat. The system will show you if that seat costs extra. For Air Transat seat selection online, you need a stable internet connection and your reservation code. If you already have a booking, go to the airline’s homepage, click “Manage,” enter your last name and booking reference, and you will see the seat map.
What if you are not tech-savvy? No problem. You can call Air Transat seat selection phone number directly. The official line is +1-514-636-3030, but for personal help navigating fees and upgrades, AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 offers free guidance. When you call, have your six-character booking code ready. The agent will read the same air transat seat map to you and lock in your choice.
Another method is during online check-in. Exactly 24 hours before departure, log into “Check-in.” You will see a map of free seats. This is when many budget travelers make their move. However, premium seats like exit rows or front-cabin spots may still carry an air transat seat selection fee even at check-in. The mobile app works the same way. Download the Air Transat app, go to “My Trips,” and tap on “Select Seats.”
If you have ever tried to select seats on a crowded flight, you know the system may show “unavailable” for certain rows. That does not mean the plane is full. It means those seats are reserved for passengers willing to pay a fee or for those with status. You can also change seats after selecting them (more on that later). For groups, the system tries to keep you together, but never assume. Always manually verify.
Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Select Seats:
Go to Air Transat website or open app.
Click “Manage My Booking” or start a new booking.
Enter last name and booking reference.
Click on seat selection Air Transat tab.
Study the air transat seat map (window, middle, aisle, exit).
Tap your preferred seat – price will appear.
Pay air transat seat selection fee if applicable.
Confirm and save.
Check your email for updated itinerary.
If stuck, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 for help.
Is Seat Selection Free on Air Transat or Do You Have to Pay
This is the number one question we hear from worried travelers. The honest answer: it depends on your fare and timing. Air Transat seat selection is not automatically free like some full-service airlines. However, you can absolutely select seats without paying if you follow the rules. Let me break it down so you do not overpay.
If you book Air Transat Economy Class with the “Eco Budget” fare, seat selection costs money until online check-in opens. The air transat seat selection fee for standard seats ranges from $15 to $45 CAD per segment, depending on route length. For “Eco Standard” or “Eco Flexible” fares, advance seat selection is included for free. Air Transat Business Class passengers always get free seat selection at booking, including preferred spots.
Now, here is the trick: air transat seat selection 24 hours before departure is completely free for every passenger, regardless of fare. Yes, even if you bought the cheapest ticket. At the 24-hour mark, the airline opens all remaining seats at no charge. The catch? You cannot be picky. If you want a specific row or need extra legroom, you may still have to pay even at check-in. Exit row seats and “Preferred” seats (first few rows of Economy) often carry a fee until the gate.
So, when should you pay? Pay if you are traveling with young children and must sit together. Pay if you have a medical need for an aisle seat. Pay if you are tall and need legroom. Otherwise, set a reminder on your phone for exactly 24 hours before departure and grab a free seat. Remember that air transat seat selection after booking through customer service may also incur a service fee on top of the seat fee.
We always tell our clients: read your fare rules before clicking “purchase.” The airline makes this information available during checkout. If you are confused, AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 can review your booking with you and tell you exactly what is free and what is not.
Free vs Paid Scenarios:
Free: 24-hour check-in (standard seats only).
Free: Eco Standard, Eco Flexible, and all Business Class.
Paid: Eco Budget at booking or anytime before 24 hours.
Paid: Exit rows and Preferred seats (even at check-in).
Free for changes: If airline changes plane type.
Can You Choose Seats After Booking an Air Transat Flight
Yes, absolutely. Air Transat seat selection after booking is not only possible but also very common. Many travelers book their flight first, then later decide which seat they want. You might have booked in a rush or found a great fare but did not have time to study the air transat seat map. Do not worry — you have options.
To choose seats after booking, log into “Manage My Booking” on the Air Transat website. Enter your last name and the six-character booking reference (PNR) found in your confirmation email. Once inside, click on the “Seats” tab. You will see the same air transat seat map as during booking. Any seat with a white or green icon is available. Click it. If a fee applies, the system will show the amount before you confirm.
You can also add seats after booking via the mobile app. Under “My Trips,” select your flight and tap “Add seat selection.” The process takes less than two minutes. One important thing to note: if you wait too long after booking, desirable seats may be gone. The best time to perform Air Transat seat selection after booking is within 24 hours of purchasing your ticket. That is when the maximum number of seats is still open.
What if you booked through a third-party site? You can still select seats after booking, but you will need the airline’s booking reference, not the travel agency’s code. Call the third-party agent or check your email for the airline confirmation number. Once you have that, go directly to Air Transat’s website. Avoid paying extra fees through the agent; always select seats directly with the airline.
For passengers who booked Air Transat seat selection 24 hours or less before travel, the post-booking window may be restricted. In that case, you must select seats during check-in. If you need help locating your booking or understanding your seat map, AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 can assist you step by step over the phone.
Step-by-Step Post-Booking Seat Selection:
Find your Air Transat booking reference (6 characters).
Visit airtransat.com → “Manage My Booking.”
Enter last name and reference.
Click “Select or change seats.”
Pick from the air transat seat map.
Pay air transat seat selection fee if shown.
Receive confirmation email.
Call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 if error occurs.
What Types of Seats Are Available on Air Transat Flights
Understanding the seat types on Air Transat helps you make smarter choices. Not all seats are created equal. The airline operates a two-class configuration on most long-haul flights: Air Transat Business Class and Air Transat Economy Class. Within Economy, there are subcategories that affect your Air Transat seat selection experience.
Standard Economy Seats are the baseline. These have a pitch of 29 to 31 inches and width of about 17 to 18 inches. They recline slightly. You will find them in the middle and rear sections of the plane. For short flights under three hours, these are fine. But for transatlantic trips to London, Paris, or Rome, many travelers prefer to upgrade.
Preferred Seats are located in the front section of Economy, usually rows 10 to 15. They offer the same legroom as standard seats but allow faster deplaning. These seats often carry an air transat seat selection fee even at check-in. They are ideal if you have a tight connection.
Exit Row Seats provide significantly more legroom — sometimes up to 36 inches of pitch. However, they come with responsibilities. You must be physically able to operate the exit door and at least 15 years old. No pets or children allowed. The air transat seat selection fee for exit rows is higher, typically $50 to $90 CAD per segment.
Air Transat Business Class seats are a world apart. On Airbus A330 aircraft, they feature lie-flat or near-flat beds, direct aisle access, and premium dining. Air Transat seat selection in Business Class is always free and includes the best seats in the house: front row, window, or aisle as you prefer.
Club Class (on some aircraft) is a premium economy product with wider seats, footrests, and enhanced meal service. When you upgrade to Club Class, you also get free seat selection. The air transat seat map clearly labels Club Class in a different color.
For families, the airline also offers bulkhead seats (first row of a cabin) with extra floor space but no underseat storage during takeoff and landing. These are good for travelers with infants using bassinets.
Seat Type Summary Table
Standard Economy: 29-31” pitch, fee for advance selection.
Preferred Seats: Same pitch, closer to front, fee applies.
Exit Rows: 34-36” pitch, higher fee, no children.
Club Class: Premium economy, free selection.
Business Class: Lie-flat, free selection, best availability.
How Much Does Air Transat Charge for Seat Selection
This is where many travelers feel confused because the air transat seat selection fee changes based on route, fare, and timing. Let me give you clear numbers based on real data from 2024-2025. For short-haul flights (Canada to US, Canada to Caribbean), standard Air Transat seat selection fees range from $15 to $25 CAD per person per flight segment. For long-haul flights (Canada to Europe), expect $30 to $45 CAD for standard seats.
Preferred seats cost more: $35 to $55 CAD on long-haul routes. Exit row seats are the most expensive: $60 to $90 CAD per segment. Air Transat seat selection online always shows the exact price before you confirm. There are no hidden fees. However, if you wait until air transat seat selection 24 hours before departure, standard seats become free. Exit row and Preferred seats may still show a fee.
What about Air Transat Business Class? Zero dollars. Upgrade to Club Class also removes all seat fees. If you booked Air Transat seat selection after booking through a phone agent, there might be an additional service fee of $10 to $15 CAD. That is why we recommend doing it online yourself.
For groups of 10 or more, Air Transat has a group desk that may waive seat selection fees. But you must call ahead. Also, if the airline changes your aircraft type (e.g., from A330 to A321), your original seat selection may be canceled. In that case, you can reselect for free. Keep in mind that how much does Air Transat charge for seat selection varies by currency. US dollar prices are roughly 25% lower than CAD.
If you see a fee that seems too high, check your fare type again. Eco Flexible and Business Class should show $0. If they do not, it is a glitch. Contact AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 before paying. We have seen errors where the system tries to charge for free seats.
Typical Fees (CAD per segment):
Standard seat (Eco Budget): $15-30
Standard seat (at 24h check-in): $0
Preferred seat (anytime): $35-55
Exit row (anytime): $60-90
Business Class: $0
Phone assistance fee: $10-15 extra
Can You Change Your Seat After Selecting It on Air Transat
Yes, you can change your seat after selecting it, and the process is easier than you think. Life happens. Maybe you originally picked a window seat but later realized you need quick bathroom access. Or you are now traveling with a friend and want to sit together. Air Transat seat selection is not permanent until check-in closes.
To change your seat, go back to “Manage My Booking” on the website or app. Click on “View seats.” You will see your current seat highlighted. Click on a different available seat. If the new seat costs more than the one you originally paid for, you will pay the difference. If it costs less, Air Transat does not refund the difference — so choose carefully. If you change to a free seat after having paid for a paid seat, you generally do not get a refund unless you cancel the whole selection and rebook (not recommended).
You can change seats as many times as you want, but each change may trigger a new air transat seat selection fee if moving to a higher-priced category. For example, changing from a standard seat to an exit row will charge the full exit row fee. Changing from an exit row to a standard seat will not refund you. The best strategy is to study the air transat seat map thoroughly before your first selection.
What about after check-in? Once you have checked in online (starting 24 hours before departure), you can still change seats, but only through the check-in portal, not through “Manage My Booking.” After boarding passes are issued, seat changes may require an agent at the gate. If the flight is full, changes become impossible.
For passengers who used Air Transat seat selection 24 hours to get a free seat, you can still change to another free seat as long as it is available. No fee. However, if you try to change to a Preferred seat at that point, the fee will apply. Always double-check your email after changing seats. A confirmation should arrive within 10 minutes. If not, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 to verify the change.
Seat Change Rules Summary
Before check-in: Unlimited changes via “Manage My Booking.”
After check-in: Changes only via check-in portal.
Price difference: Pay more if upgrading, no refund for downgrading.
Free changes: If airline changes plane or schedule.
Same-day changes: Only at gate, subject to availability.
Do Air Transat Fare Types Affect Seat Selection Options
Absolutely. Your fare type is the single biggest factor controlling Air Transat seat selection. The airline has four main Economy fare families plus Business Class. Each one changes when and how much you pay. Understanding this can save you hundreds of dollars.
Eco Budget is the cheapest fare. It includes one personal item only (no carry-on in lowest tier on some routes). For seats, you cannot select in advance without paying the air transat seat selection fee. You must wait until air transat seat selection 24 hours before departure for free seats. You also cannot select exit rows online; those require an agent.
Eco Standard includes one carry-on and one personal item. Seat selection is free at booking for standard seats. Preferred and exit rows still carry a fee. You can also change seats for free within the same category. This fare is the sweet spot for most travelers who want control without breaking the bank.
Eco Flexible is fully refundable and includes two checked bags. Air Transat seat selection is completely free for all seats except exit rows (still fee applies). You also get free same-day changes. This fare makes sense for business travelers or anyone with uncertain plans.
Air Transat Business Class includes everything: lounge access, priority boarding, meals, drinks, and free seat selection for any seat including the front row and exit rows (if physically capable). You can also select seats for your travel companions on the same booking for free.
Club Class (available on select aircraft) is a premium economy product. It includes free standard seat selection. However, exit rows may still have a fee. When you upgrade to Club Class, your existing seat selection transfers automatically.
If you booked through a third party, your fare type may not be obvious. Check your confirmation email for “Fare Basis Code.” Codes starting with “B” are Budget, “S” for Standard, “F” for Flexible. For help decoding your fare or changing it to a higher one to get free seats, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620.
Fare Type Comparison
Fare TypeFree Advance Seat SelectionFree Preferred SeatFree Exit RowEco BudgetNoNoNoEco StandardYes (standard only)NoNoEco FlexibleYes (all except exit)YesNoClub ClassYes (standard)NoNoBusiness ClassYes (all)YesYes
When Is the Best Time to Choose Seats on Air Transat Flights
Timing is everything. Choose too early and you might overpay. Choose too late and you could end up in a middle seat next to the bathroom. Based on our experience helping thousands of travelers through AirlnesDealsHub, the best time for Air Transat seat selection depends on your budget and needs.
Scenario 1 – You need a specific seat (e.g., exit row, front cabin, aisle due to medical need).Choose as soon as you book. Pay the air transat seat selection fee if required. Do not wait. These premium seats sell out quickly, especially during summer and holidays.
Scenario 2 – You want to sit with family but don’t need extra legroom.Book your flight first, then immediately go to “Manage My Booking” and select seats. If your fare does not include free seats, set a calendar alert for exactly 24 hours before departure. At that moment, log in and pick free seats together. For large families, consider paying for at least one adult seat to anchor the group.
Scenario 3 – You are a solo traveler who does not care where you sit.Wait until air transat seat selection 24 hours before departure. You will get a free seat. It may be a middle seat, but it is free. Check again 12 hours and 4 hours before departure; better seats sometimes open as people upgrade.
Scenario 4 – You want to upgrade to Club Class or Business Class.The best time to upgrade to Club Class is 7 to 14 days before departure. That is when airlines release unsold premium seats at discount prices. Check your booking daily during that window. Once upgraded, seat selection becomes free.
Scenario 5 – You missed the 24-hour window.Do not panic. Go to the airport early (3 hours before international flights). Ask the gate agent if any better seats are available. Sometimes they will move you for free if the flight is not full.
The absolute worst time to choose seats is during boarding. At that point, you get whatever is left. Plan ahead. For personalized timing advice based on your exact flight number, contact AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620.
Best Timing Summary:
Premium seats: At booking (pay fee)
Free standard seats: Exactly 24 hours before departure
Family seating: Within 24 hours of booking (pay) or at 24h check-in (free)
Upgrades: 7-14 days before departure
Last-minute changes: At airport, 2-3 hours before flight
What Happens If You Don’t Choose a Seat on Air Transat
This is a common fear: “What if I do nothing?” If you skip Air Transat seat selection entirely, the airline will assign a seat for you automatically. This happens during check-in or at the gate. The system uses an algorithm that fills the plane from back to front, filling middle seats last. So if you do nothing, you will likely get a middle seat in the rear of the plane.
For solo travelers, this is often fine. But for couples or families, not choosing seats almost guarantees you will be separated. Air Transat’s system does not prioritize group seating unless you pay for it. We have seen parents with toddlers placed 10 rows apart because they assumed “the airline will keep us together.” That is a myth. Airlines are not required to seat families together unless you select seats.
Another risk of not choosing: you could end up in a seat that does not recline (last row before a wall) or next to a lavatory. These are called “undesirable seats.” They are often the last to be assigned. If you have long legs, you might get a standard seat with no extra room. If you have anxiety, you might get a middle seat between two strangers.
The good news: even if you do not choose a seat before check-in, you can still select a free seat during the air transat seat selection 24 hours window. That is not “doing nothing.” That is actively choosing within the free period. The only time you truly “do nothing” is if you skip both advance selection and online check-in seat selection. In that case, the gate agent prints your boarding pass with a random seat.
For passengers with disabilities or medical needs, never leave seat selection to chance. Call the airline disability desk or AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 to ensure you get an appropriate seat. Also, if you have a connecting flight on Air Transat, not selecting seats on the first leg could mess up your second leg. Always select for all segments.
Consequences of No Seat Selection:
Likely outcome: Middle seat in back rows.
For couples: High chance of separation.
For families: Almost guaranteed separation.
Possible undesirable seats: No recline, near bathrooms, blocked windows.
No refund: You cannot complain after the fact.
Solution: Use air transat seat selection 24 hours for free choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I avoid paying the air transat seat selection fee?
Wait until online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before departure. At that moment, log in and select any standard seat for free. Exit rows and Preferred seats may still cost money, but regular seats are free.
Can I select seats for free if I have an Eco Budget ticket?
No, not before the 24-hour check-in window. But during air transat seat selection 24 hours, yes, all standard seats become free regardless of fare type.
What is the air transat seat selection phone number for urgent help?
The official Air Transat customer service number is +1-514-636-3030. For personal assistance with seat maps and fees, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620.
Can I upgrade to Club Class after booking and then select seats for free?
Yes. When you upgrade to Club Class via “Manage My Booking,” your new fare includes free standard seat selection. Premium seats may still have a fee.
How much does Air Transat charge for seat selection on international flights?
For long-haul flights to Europe, standard air transat seat selection fee ranges from $30 to $45 CAD per segment. Exit rows cost $60 to $90 CAD.
Is seat selection Air Transat different for A321 vs A330 aircraft?
Yes. The air transat seat map differs significantly. A330 has more premium seats and lie-flat Business Class. A321 is narrower with fewer exit rows. Always check your specific aircraft before selecting.
Can I choose seats after booking through a travel agent?
Yes, but you need the airline’s booking reference, not the agent’s. Ask your agent for the Air Transat PNR, then go to “Manage My Booking” online.
What happens if Air Transat changes my flight after I paid for seat selection?
You are entitled to a full refund of all air transat seat selection fees if the new flight has no comparable seats. You can also reselect for free on the new flight.
How do I know if my seat selection is confirmed?
Check your email for an updated itinerary. Also, log into “Manage My Booking” and look for a seat number next to your name. If unsure, call AirlnesDealsHub at +1-855-662-5620 to verify.
Can I select seats for my entire group at once?
Yes. Use the “Manage My Booking” tool and select seats for each passenger individually. The system will show availability for all. If you need help with 10+ passengers, call the Air Transat group desk or AirlnesDealsHub.
Final Tip Do not leave your comfort to chance. Whether you pay the air transat seat selection fee or wait for the free window, always check your air transat seat map at least twice before flying. If you ever feel lost, +1-855-662-5620 is here for you. Safe travels!