Do you often find yourself wishing for a little more breathing room on your flights? Perhaps you're a plus-size traveler who needs extra space to be comfortable, or maybe you're carrying a delicate musical instrument that can't be checked, or simply desire the luxury of an empty seat next to you for ultimate relaxation. Whatever your reason, buying an extra seat on American Airlines is a viable option, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process!
A Comprehensive Guide to Buying an Extra Seat on American Airlines
Let's dive in and see how you can secure that coveted extra space for a more enjoyable journey.
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| How To Buy An Extra Seat On American Airlines |
Step 1: Understand Your "Why" and American Airlines' Policy
Before you even think about booking, let's get clear on why you need that extra seat. This will determine the best approach and help you understand American Airlines' specific guidelines.
1.1. Why Do You Need an Extra Seat?
For personal comfort (e.g., plus-size traveler): American Airlines' policy states that if you need more than one seat to travel comfortably and safely (e.g., you cannot move over a fixed armrest), you must book an additional seat.
For a valuable or fragile item (e.g., musical instrument): If your musical instrument doesn't fit in the overhead bin or under the seat, you can purchase an additional seat for it.
For medical equipment: Some medical devices may require an extra seat if they cannot be stowed safely or used in your lap.
For extra space/privacy: You might simply desire the luxury of an empty seat next to you.
1.2. American Airlines' Official Stance
American Airlines is generally accommodating when it comes to purchasing an extra seat for comfort or special items. However, their policies can vary slightly depending on the specific reason.
For travelers needing extra space due to size: American Airlines encourages customers to address all seating needs when booking. If you need more than one seat, you'll need to book an additional seat. They generally aim to get you two adjacent seats at the same fare. If adjacent seats aren't available on your original flight, they might offer you seats on a different flight at the same price. It's important to note that American Airlines does not offer refunds on second seat purchases for this reason.
For musical instruments: If your instrument cannot be carried on, you can purchase an additional seat for it. The cost will be the applicable adult fare plus any taxes/fees. The instrument must not be in an exit row and must be directly next to yours. Seat bags for instruments must not weigh more than 165 lbs (75 kg) and must meet seat size restrictions based on aircraft type.
Step 2: The Booking Process: How to Secure Your Extra Seat
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
This is where the rubber meets the road! There are a few ways to book an extra seat, and the best method depends on your reason and preference.
2.1. Booking by Phone (Recommended for Most Cases)
For situations where you need an extra seat for comfort (e.g., due to size) or for a specific item like a large musical instrument, calling American Airlines Reservations directly is highly recommended. This allows you to clearly communicate your needs and ensures proper handling.
Dial American Airlines Reservations: Locate the customer service number on the American Airlines website (or call +1 (800) 433-7300 within the U.S.).
Explain Your Need: Clearly state that you need to purchase an extra seat for your comfort, or for a specific item (e.g., "I need to purchase an adjacent seat for myself as a passenger of size," or "I need to purchase an extra seat for my cello").
Provide Passenger Details (for comfort seat): The agent will typically book the second seat under your name, often with a designation like "EXST" (extra seat) or "XS" in the middle name field to indicate it's not another person. This helps prevent the seat from being accidentally assigned to someone else.
Provide Item Details (for instrument/equipment): If booking for an item, provide the dimensions and weight of the item. The agent will confirm if it meets the requirements for a cabin seat.
Confirm Adjacency: Emphasize the importance of the seats being adjacent to each other. The agent should be able to confirm this during the booking process.
Fare and Payment: You will pay the applicable adult fare for the extra seat. Ensure you understand the total cost before finalizing the booking.
Confirmation: Get a confirmation number for both tickets. Double-check that the seats are indeed next to each other on your itinerary.
2.2. Booking Online (Limited Options for True "Extra Seats")
While you can purchase Main Cabin Extra seats online for more legroom, this isn't the same as buying a completely empty, adjacent seat for comfort or an item. Main Cabin Extra simply offers more pitch and sometimes early boarding.
For "More Legroom" (Main Cabin Extra): If your goal is simply extra legroom, you can select Main Cabin Extra seats during or after your flight booking online. Prices vary.
Book your flight as usual on aa.com.
During the seat selection process (or by managing your existing reservation), look for seats designated as "Main Cabin Extra." These will have an associated fee.
Select and pay for the desired Main Cabin Extra seat.
For a True Extra Seat (Online method with caution): Some travelers have reported success in booking two separate tickets under their own name online.
Book your initial ticket as usual.
Then, immediately try to book a second ticket for the same flight under your exact same name. For the second passenger, you might need to use a slightly modified name (e.g., your full name with "EXST" or "XS" as a middle name, as advised by some resources for other airlines, though calling American Airlines is still the most reliable way to ensure their system registers it correctly and doesn't flag it as a duplicate booking).
Crucially, you would then need to immediately call American Airlines to link these two bookings, explain that the second seat is for your comfort or an item, and ensure it remains assigned next to your primary seat. There is a risk this method might not work seamlessly or could lead to issues, hence the strong recommendation for phone booking.
Step 3: Pre-Flight Preparations and Airport Day
You've booked your extra seat – great! Now, let's make sure your journey is smooth.
3.1. Reconfirm Your Seating
Before Travel: A few days before your flight, call American Airlines again to reconfirm that your extra seat is still assigned correctly and is adjacent to your primary seat. This is especially important if you used a non-standard online booking method.
Online Check-in: When checking in online, you should see both seats assigned to you. If there's any discrepancy, do not complete online check-in and call American Airlines immediately.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
3.2. Airport Day – Check-in and Gate
At the Airport: Even if you've checked in online, it's often a good idea to speak with an American Airlines agent at the check-in counter or the gate.
Inform the Agent: Politely inform the agent that you have purchased an extra seat for your comfort/item. This proactive communication can help prevent any confusion, especially if the flight is overbooked and they are looking for available seats.
Boarding: Board with your assigned group. Once on board, occupy both seats. If anyone questions it, simply explain you purchased the additional seat.
Step 4: During the Flight: Enjoy Your Space!
Now, it's time to reap the benefits of your foresight!
Utilize the Space: Spread out, keep your instrument safe, or simply enjoy the peace of mind of having extra room.
Stowage (for items): Ensure your item (e.g., musical instrument) is properly secured in its seat and does not obstruct the aisle or other passengers' access. Flight attendants may have specific instructions.
Step 5: Post-Flight Considerations
While American Airlines generally doesn't offer refunds for extra seats purchased for comfort, there might be specific scenarios to consider.
Refunds: As mentioned, American Airlines typically does not offer refunds for extra seats purchased for personal comfort if you didn't need it or changed your mind. However, if American Airlines cannot provide you with adjacent seats on your original flight and offers you a different flight, you might have options for a refund if that new flight doesn't suit your needs. For specific item-related extra seats, refund policies can vary depending on the circumstances. Always refer to their official refund policies or discuss with a representative if a situation arises where you believe a refund is warranted (e.g., significant flight changes by the airline).
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to request special assistance for extra space on American Airlines?
You can request special assistance, including extra space, when booking your trip online under the "Add special assistance" section on the passenger details page, or by calling American Airlines Reservations or their Special Assistance line at 800-237-7976.
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
How to ensure my extra seat on American Airlines is adjacent to mine?
The most reliable way is to call American Airlines Reservations directly and explicitly state that you need two adjacent seats. The agent will confirm the seating arrangement during the booking process.
How to purchase an extra seat for a large musical instrument on American Airlines?
Call American Airlines Reservations. Inform them you need to purchase an extra seat for your musical instrument. Be prepared to provide its dimensions and weight. The instrument must meet specific size and weight restrictions and cannot be placed in an exit row.
How to know if I need to buy an extra seat for my size on American Airlines?
American Airlines' policy suggests you need an extra seat if you cannot comfortably sit with the armrests down, or if you require more than one seat to travel safely. When in doubt, it's best to call American Airlines to discuss your specific needs.
How to change or cancel a flight with an extra seat on American Airlines?
You can change or cancel your trip online via "Find your trip" on aa.com or by calling Reservations. Be aware that extra seat purchases for comfort are generally non-refundable if you cancel the flight.
How to use AAdvantage miles to purchase an extra seat on American Airlines?
QuickTip: A short pause boosts comprehension.
While AAdvantage miles can be used for Main Cabin Extra seats, for a full extra seat (like for comfort or an instrument), it's generally best to inquire directly with American Airlines Reservations if mileage redemption is an option, as it's not a standard online redemption for this purpose.
How to check the dimensions and weight limits for a musical instrument needing an extra seat on American Airlines?
For instruments requiring an extra seat, they typically must not weigh more than 165 lbs (75 kg) and must meet seat size restrictions based on the aircraft type. It's always best to confirm the exact dimensions with American Airlines Reservations when booking.
How to get a refund for an extra seat on American Airlines if my flight is canceled or significantly delayed?
If American Airlines cancels your flight or causes a significant delay that prevents you from using your purchased extra seat as intended, and they cannot rebook you with a comparable seating arrangement, you may be eligible for a refund. Contact American Airlines customer service in such scenarios.
How to secure an extra seat for medical equipment on American Airlines?
If your medical equipment requires an extra seat, you should contact American Airlines Special Assistance or Reservations. They will guide you through the process, ensuring the equipment meets safety regulations for cabin stowage.
How to determine the cost of an extra seat on American Airlines?
The cost of an extra seat will be the applicable adult fare for that specific flight plus any associated taxes and carrier-imposed fees. The price can vary significantly based on the route, demand, and how far in advance you book. Calling Reservations is the best way to get an accurate quote.
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