When flying with Lufthansa, one of the most important decisions to make before takeoff is your seat. Choosing the right seat can make a significant difference in your travel experience, whether you’re flying short domestic routes or long-haul international flights. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Lufthansa airlines seat selection — from available seat types to costs, policies, and expert tips on how to pick the best seat for your journey.
Why Is Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection Important?
Comfort during a flight often depends on where you sit. With Lufthansa, passengers have a variety of seating options to choose from, each offering different levels of space, legroom, and amenities. Whether you prefer extra legroom, want to be close to the lavatory, or simply want a window seat for the view, selecting your seat in advance can ensure a more pleasant flight.
Lufthansa offers both complimentary and paid seat selection options depending on the ticket type, route, and timing of your booking. Understanding how this system works will help you avoid last-minute surprises and secure your ideal seat.
Seat Classes and Seating Options on Lufthansa
Lufthansa operates several cabin classes, each with distinct seat options:
1. Economy Class
Economy class on Lufthansa features standard seating with varying degrees of legroom depending on the aircraft. While most Economy seats are standard, Lufthansa also offers Economy Light tickets, which typically do not include free seat selection before check-in.
2. Premium Economy
Premium Economy offers wider seats, increased legroom, and additional amenities. Seat selection in this cabin is generally included with your ticket but still allows passengers to choose their preferred spot.
3. Business Class
Business Class seats are designed for comfort, often featuring lie-flat or angled-flat beds, more personal space, and priority boarding. Seat selection is complimentary for Business Class passengers.
4. First Class
The most luxurious option, First Class on Lufthansa provides spacious suites and exclusive services. Passengers can select their preferred seat free of charge.
How to Select Your Seat on Lufthansa
At the Time of Booking
When booking your Lufthansa flight online, you’ll often be prompted to select your seat during the reservation process. Depending on your fare type and route, some seats may be complimentary, while others might require an additional fee.
After Booking
If you didn’t select a seat during booking, you can log into your booking through Lufthansa’s website or mobile app to choose or change your seat before check-in opens.
During Check-In
For some fare types, seat selection may only be available at the time of online check-in, typically 23 hours before departure. At this point, seats may be limited, so it’s advisable to select your seat as early as possible.
Fees and Charges for Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection
Lufthansa has a tiered approach to seat selection fees:
-
Complimentary Seats: Usually available for Premium Economy, Business, and First Class passengers, as well as some Economy tickets depending on the fare class.
-
Paid Seat Selection: Economy Light and some Economy fares may require an additional fee to select a preferred seat before check-in. Prices vary based on the route, aircraft, and seat location.
-
Extra Legroom Seats: Seats with more legroom, such as exit rows or bulkhead seats, typically incur an additional charge even for some Economy tickets.
It’s important to check your ticket type and fare conditions to understand whether your seat selection will be free or paid.
Types of Seats on Lufthansa and Their Benefits
Knowing the types of seats available can help you choose wisely:
Window Seats
Perfect for those who enjoy views and want to rest against the wall.
Aisle Seats
Ideal if you want easier access to the restroom or prefer to stretch your legs frequently.
Exit Row Seats
Offer extra legroom but often come with restrictions on who can occupy them (passengers must be able-bodied and willing to assist in an emergency).
Bulkhead Seats
Located at the front of a cabin section, these seats provide extra legroom but might be near galleys or lavatories.
Seats Near Lavatories or Galleys
While convenient, these can be noisier and experience more foot traffic.
Tips for Choosing the Best Seat on Lufthansa
-
Book Early: Selecting your seat as soon as you book improves your chances of getting your preferred spot.
-
Check Seat Maps: Use Lufthansa’s seat map to see which seats are available and which have restrictions.
-
Consider Your Needs: If you need extra legroom, look for exit rows or bulkhead seats, but remember there may be fees.
-
Avoid Seats Near Bathrooms: To minimize noise and disturbance, avoid seats close to lavatories and galleys.
-
Use the Mobile App: Lufthansa’s app makes it easy to view and change your seat anytime before check-in closes.
Lufthansa Airlines Seat Selection for Families and Groups
Traveling with family or friends? Lufthansa allows you to select seats together when you book. It’s a good idea to confirm seat assignments early to avoid being separated, especially on full flights. If traveling with infants, some seats offer bassinets, but these require advance reservation.
Changing Your Seat After Booking
If your plans change or you find a better seat available, you can modify your seat selection through Lufthansa’s website or app, often for free or a small fee depending on your ticket. Keep in mind, last-minute changes might be limited, so it’s best to finalize your seat choice as early as possible.
