Where is the seat number in a flight ticket?

Decoding Your Boarding Pass: Finding Your Seat Number

Ever booked a flight and wondered, “Where’s my seat number?” It’s a common question, especially for first-time flyers. Unlike movie tickets or concert passes, your initial flight confirmation often doesn’t display a specific seat assignment. This leads many to scramble, envisioning themselves stuck in a middle seat between strangers.

The truth is, airlines typically assign seats automatically during the check-in process. While some airlines offer pre-flight seat selection for a fee or as a perk for frequent flyers or those traveling in premium cabins, most economy passengers receive their seat assignment at check-in.

So, where is that elusive seat number hidden? You won’t find it on your initial booking confirmation. Instead, it’s prominently displayed on your boarding pass. Think of your flight confirmation as your proof of purchase and your boarding pass as your entry ticket with all the vital details for your journey.

You’ll receive your boarding pass after checking in, either:

• At the airport counter: Traditional check-in involves presenting your identification and receiving a printed boarding pass with your gate number, seat number, and other essential information.

• Online: Most airlines offer online check-in, usually starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure. After completing the online process, you’ll receive a digital boarding pass, often delivered via email or airline app, which you can display on your smartphone or print at home.

Your boarding pass clearly indicates your seat number, typically represented by a number and a letter (e.g., 12A, 25F). The number refers to the row, and the letter corresponds to the seat’s position within that row (usually A or F representing window seats, C or D for aisle seats, and B or E for middle seats).

While automatic seat assignments are standard practice, you can often request a different seat during check-in, either online or at the counter. Availability, of course, depends on the flight’s occupancy. If you have specific seating preferences, such as a window seat or extra legroom, arriving early for check-in, especially at the airport counter, may increase your chances of securing your desired spot.