Hey there, frequent flyer! Ever wish you had just a little more space on your American Airlines flight? Or perhaps you're traveling with something precious that needs its own seat? You're in the right place! Buying two seats on American Airlines might seem a bit unusual, but it's a perfectly valid and sometimes necessary option. Whether it's for extra comfort, medical reasons, or accommodating a delicate item, understanding the process is key to a smooth journey.
Let's dive into how you can secure that coveted extra space!
Step 1: Determine Why You Need Two Seats
Before you even pick up the phone or click on a booking button, consider the primary reason for needing a second seat. This will influence how you book and what information you'll need to provide.
1.1: Personal Comfort or Passenger of Size
Are you a passenger of size and prefer guaranteed comfort? American Airlines acknowledges the need for additional space. This is one of the most common reasons people consider purchasing an extra seat. It ensures you have ample room, avoid spilling into an adjacent seat, and have a more relaxed journey.
1.2: Medical Reasons
Do you have a medical condition that requires extra space or equipment? This could range from needing to elevate a leg to accommodating portable medical devices that cannot be stowed. Always consult with your doctor first to ensure you're fit to fly and to understand any specific needs.
1.3: Accommodating a Large, Fragile, or Valuable Item
Are you traveling with a cello, an expensive piece of art, or a unique prop that needs its own seat? Airlines generally have policies for carrying special items in the cabin that are too large for overhead bins or under-seat storage. These "cabin seat baggage" items usually require their own paid seat.
Step 2: Understanding American Airlines' Policy on Extra Seats
American Airlines has specific guidelines for purchasing additional seats. It's crucial to understand these before you proceed.
2.1: Booking Method
For most scenarios involving an extra seat for yourself (passenger of size, comfort), American Airlines requires you to call their reservations directly. While some airlines might allow online booking with a specific placeholder name, American Airlines generally mandates a phone call to ensure proper handling and to guarantee adjacent seating.
2.2: Fare and Fare Class
When you purchase a second seat for personal comfort or a large item, it will typically be at the same fare and in the same fare class as your first seat. This means you'll essentially be paying double the price of a single ticket for that specific fare class.
2.3: Entire Itinerary Requirement
If you opt for a second seat, it must be booked for the full itinerary, not just a single segment of your journey. This ensures consistency and prevents potential issues during connections.
2.4: AAdvantage Miles and Benefits
You can redeem AAdvantage miles for the second seat if you redeem miles for both seats in the same fare class. However, it's important to note that you typically cannot earn miles on the additional seat purchase, even if you pay with cash. Elite-status credit is also generally not awarded for extra seats.
2.5: Refunds for Passengers of Size
Here's a key point for passengers of size: If you purchase a second seat due to your size, and all flights on your itinerary depart with unsold seats (meaning the plane wasn't full), you might be eligible for a refund for the second seat. You'll need to contact American Airlines after your flights to inquire about this. This is not guaranteed, but it's worth knowing the possibility exists.
Step 3: The Step-by-Step Booking Process (The "Call Them" Method)
This is the most reliable way to book two seats on American Airlines.
3.1: Gather Your Information
Before you call, have the following ready:
Your travel dates and desired route.
Your personal information: Full name (as it appears on your ID), date of birth, contact information.
Your AAdvantage number (if applicable).
Credit card details for payment.
Specifics about your need: Be ready to explain why you need the extra seat (e.g., "I require an extra seat for personal comfort due to my size," or "I am carrying a musical instrument that needs a seat").
3.2: Call American Airlines Reservations
The most direct and recommended way to book is to call American Airlines Reservations.
American Airlines Customer Service Number: You can find the most current number on their official website under "Contact Us" or "FAQs." As of my last update, a common number is 1-800-433-7300. For special assistance, you can call +1-888-644-0077.
3.3: Clearly State Your Intent
When you connect with a representative, clearly state that you wish to book two seats for one passenger.
Be prepared to explain the reason. The agent will guide you through the process. They will likely book two adjacent seats under your name, or with a specific designation (e.g., "XS" for extra seat as a middle name, though this can vary and the agent will confirm).
3.4: Confirm Details and Seat Assignment
Verify that both seats are indeed adjacent. Double-check the seat numbers with the agent.
Confirm the fare and total cost. Ensure you understand what you're paying for.
Ask about baggage allowances. While you're buying an extra seat, it generally doesn't automatically double your checked baggage allowance, though policies can vary. Clarify this with the agent.
Inquire about seat types: If you have specific preferences (e.g., bulkhead for instruments, or an aisle seat for comfort), discuss these with the agent. While American Airlines will aim to provide the best available adjacent seats, specific bulkhead window seats are often assigned for instruments.
3.5: Receive Confirmation
Once the booking is complete and payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and ticket numbers. Review this carefully to ensure all details are correct for both seats.
Step 4: Managing Your Booking and Day of Travel
Even after booking, there are a few things to keep in mind.
4.1: Online Management (Limited for Two Seats)
While you can typically manage regular bookings online, changes to a two-seat booking might still require a phone call to American Airlines. It's often best to call if you need to make any modifications to your reservation.
4.2: Check-in Process
Online Check-in: You might be able to check in online for both seats, but be prepared for potential discrepancies or a need to call if the system doesn't fully recognize the dual booking.
Airport Check-in: Arriving early at the airport and checking in with an agent at the counter can often be the smoothest option for two-seat bookings, especially if there are any complexities. Inform the agent you have purchased two seats for yourself/your item.
4.3: Boarding and Onboard Experience
Boarding: Boarding as usual, but when you get to your seats, be mindful of the space you've secured.
Onboard: If you've purchased the seat for a valuable item, ensure it's securely fastened and adheres to any specific airline requirements (e.g., seat belt extensions, weight limits – generally not more than 165 lbs/75 kg for instruments). For personal comfort, enjoy the extra space! If you encounter any issues, politely speak with a flight attendant.
Step 5: Post-Travel (For Potential Refunds)
This step applies primarily to passengers of size who purchased an extra seat.
5.1: Monitor Flight Occupancy
While on your trip, pay attention to how full your flights are. If you notice empty seats around you, it increases your chances of a refund.
5.2: Contact American Airlines Post-Flight
If your flights departed with unsold seats, contact American Airlines customer service after your travel is complete. Explain that you purchased an extra seat as a passenger of size and would like to inquire about a refund, citing their policy. Be prepared to provide your booking reference and details.
Important Considerations and Tips:
Book Early: Especially if you need two adjacent seats, booking as far in advance as possible increases your chances of securing the desired seating arrangement.
Fare Class Fluctuations: Airfares can change rapidly. The price of your second seat will match the fare class of your first seat at the time of booking.
Baggage Implications: An extra seat usually doesn't entitle you to an extra checked baggage allowance. Clarify this when you call to book.
Bulkhead Seats: For oversized items like musical instruments, American Airlines often requires them to be placed in bulkhead window seats (not in Emergency Exit rows). These seats have a solid wall in front of them, providing a secure space.
Communication is Key: Don't hesitate to ask questions throughout the process, whether it's during booking or at the airport. Clear communication ensures a smoother experience.
By following these steps, you can confidently navigate the process of buying two seats on American Airlines, ensuring a more comfortable and accommodating travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to book two seats on American Airlines for personal comfort?
You need to call American Airlines Reservations directly and inform them you wish to book two adjacent seats for one passenger for personal comfort. The representative will guide you through the process, ensuring the seats are booked at the same fare and fare class.
How to buy an extra seat on American Airlines for a large musical instrument?
To buy an extra seat for a large musical instrument, you must call American Airlines Reservations. They will book a bulkhead window seat for your instrument, which must adhere to weight (typically under 165 lbs/75 kg) and size restrictions to fit safely.
How to get a refund for a second seat purchased on American Airlines as a passenger of size?
If you are a passenger of size and purchased a second seat, you might be eligible for a refund for that second seat if all your flights on the itinerary depart with unsold seats. You must contact American Airlines after your travel to request this refund.
How to choose specific seats when buying two seats on American Airlines?
When you call American Airlines Reservations to book your two seats, you can discuss your seating preferences with the agent. While they will aim for adjacent seats, for items like instruments, they will typically assign a specific bulkhead window seat.
How to check in for two seats on American Airlines?
You may be able to check in online for both seats, but it's often recommended to check in at the airport counter with an American Airlines agent to ensure a smooth process and address any potential system quirks related to the dual booking.
How to know if American Airlines' extra seat policy applies to my situation?
American Airlines' extra seat policy generally covers passengers needing additional space for comfort, passengers of size, and valuable items that require a cabin seat. If you're unsure, the best approach is to call their reservations department and explain your specific needs.
How to use AAdvantage miles to book two seats on American Airlines?
You can use AAdvantage miles to book both seats, provided both seats are in the same fare class. However, you typically won't earn miles on the additional seat purchase.
How to find the American Airlines customer service number for booking extra seats?
The primary customer service number for American Airlines is generally 1-800-433-7300. For special assistance, you can also try +1-888-644-0077. Always double-check the most current contact information on the official American Airlines website.
How to handle baggage allowance when buying two seats on American Airlines?
Purchasing a second seat typically does not automatically double your baggage allowance. You should clarify your baggage allowance with the American Airlines representative when you book your two seats to avoid any surprises.
How to ensure my two seats are truly adjacent on American Airlines?
When speaking with the American Airlines reservations agent, explicitly state that you require two adjacent seats. Confirm the seat numbers they assign for both segments of your journey and verify them in your confirmation email.
