Can I Book An Exit Row Seat On British Airways?

Do you hate having your knees dig into the seat in front? As clearly economy seats weren’t designed with tall people in mind! If so, you’ve probably considered booking an exit row seat for extra legroom like us. If you fly a lot you are probably aware there are some requirements to sit in an exit row but what are they? Well, it’s not quite as simple as you might think! When booking an exit row seat on British Airways there are both legal restrictions and BA imposed restrictions.

Legal requirements when booking an Exit Row Seat On British Airways

The Civil Aviation Authority places certain legal requirements on who can sit in exit row seats. This is because if the emergency exit is needed, it is important the exit can be opened and the aircraft evacuated as quickly as possible. Passengers that are able bodied and aged 12+ normally can sit in exit row seats without any issues. You can read more about the Civil Aviation Authority requirements on their website here – https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/on-board/seating-allocation/

British Airways restrictions when booking an Exit Row Seat

Short Haul

When flying short-haul those with Executive Club Silver or oneworld Sapphire status (or higher) can book exit row seats at the time of booking free of charge. Executive Club Bronze or oneworld Ruby status can book exit row seats 7 days before departure free of charge.

Long Haul

When flying long-haul those with Executive Club Gold status can book exit row seats at the time of booking free of charge. This can be for themselves and their companions on the same booking. All other members unfortunately have to pay for Exit Row seats. In the unlikely event that there are any exit row seats left 24 hours before departure, Executive Club Bronze (or higher) can select them for free.

Conclusion

Unless you have status with British Airways you could possibly miss out on snagging exit row seats. This is even more likely on popular routes! If you have no status and want to sit in an Exit Row seat consider paying to reserve a seat. It’s likely otherwise by the time you can check-in and choose a seat for free they will all be gone! You can read more about British Airways seat charges here – https://pointsuncovered.com/british-airways/does-ba-charge-for-seat-selection/