Flying with Qatar Airways offers one of the most comfortable and premium air travel experiences in the world. Whether you're flying Economy, Business, or First Class, choosing the right seat can significantly enhance your journey. But navigating through the seat selection process — especially if you're not familiar with the airline's policies — can be a bit confusing.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Qatar Airways seat selection: how it works, associated fees, who gets free selection, and step-by-step instructions to choose or change your seat before departure. For further information, you can always reach out to Airlines Ticket Policy.
Why Seat Selection Matters
Choosing your seat isn't just about window vs. aisle anymore. For long-haul flights especially, your seat can impact:
- Comfort and space (legroom, recline, noise levels)
- Proximity to restrooms or galleys
- Early deboarding convenience
- Access to Qatar’s Qsuite if in Business Class
- Seating together with family or companions
Securing the best seat for your needs in advance ensures peace of mind and a more enjoyable flight experience.
Seat Selection Policy: Who Gets It for Free?
Qatar Airways’ seat selection policy depends on your fare class, frequent flyer status, and cabin type.
Free Seat Selection
You are eligible for complimentary seat selection if you fall under the following categories:
- First Class passengers – All seat selection is free.
- Business Class (Comfort & Elite fares) – Free seat selection, including Qsuite where available.
- Economy Class (Comfort fares) – Free seat selection.
- Privilege Club members (Platinum and Gold) – Free selection in any class, including preferred seats.
- Codeshare flights (some partners) – Policy may vary.
Paid Seat Selection
If you book Economy Classic or Business Classic, seat selection may not be free. In that case, you can:
- Pay for seat selection in advance
- Wait until online check-in (24 hours before departure) to choose from available seats for free (subject to availability)
Types of Seats Available on Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways offers various seat options based on aircraft type and cabin class. Here are the key seat categories:
Economy Class
- Standard Seats – Basic, no extra legroom
- Preferred Seats – Front of cabin for early exit
- Extra Legroom Seats – Usually located near emergency exits
- Twin Seats – Only two seats in a row (available on A350 and B777)
Business Class
- Standard Business Seats – Wide recline, lie-flat beds
- Qsuite Seats – Available on select B777 and A350 aircraft. These are private suites with sliding doors and convertible quad seating.
First Class
- Available mostly on the A380 aircraft, featuring ultra-spacious recliner seats with premium amenities.
How to Select Your Seat on Qatar Airways
You can select your seat in the following ways:
1. During Booking
- On the Qatar Airways website or mobile app, after entering passenger details, you’ll be prompted to choose a seat.
- Seat availability and fees (if applicable) will be clearly displayed.
2. After Booking (Manage Booking Option)
Steps:
- Visit Qatar Airways Manage Booking
- Enter your booking reference and last name
- Click on "Modify Seats" under your flight itinerary
- View the seat map and select your desired seat
- Pay (if applicable) and confirm
3. Via Mobile App
The Qatar Airways mobile app allows full seat map access and seat management, similar to the website.
4. Through Travel Agent
If you booked through a travel agency, ask them to assign your seat or provide the airline booking reference so you can manage it directly.
5. At Online Check-in
- Begins 24 hours before departure.
- If you haven’t selected a seat, you can choose from what’s left — often at no extra charge.
How to Change Your Seat After Selection
If you’ve already selected a seat but want to change it:
- Visit the Manage Booking page on Qatar Airways' website
- Enter your details and retrieve your booking
- Click on "Modify Seats"
- Choose a new seat (additional charges may apply depending on fare)
- Confirm and save changes
You can also do this through the Qatar Airways mobile app.
Tips to Get the Best Seats on Qatar Airways
- Book early: The earlier you book, the more choices you'll have.
- Use SeatGuru: Check the aircraft seat map and reviews.
- Look for Qsuite routes: Not all Business Class seats are Qsuites — check route details.
- Mid-cabin seats: Generally quieter and away from high foot traffic areas.
- Consider exit rows: For extra legroom, though seats near lavatories might be noisy.
- Family seating: Qatar often blocks nearby seats to offer more space to families with infants — inquire directly.
Qsuites: Qatar Airways’ Crown Jewel
If you're flying Business Class, consider choosing a seat in the Qsuite cabin. This innovative design offers:
- Full privacy with sliding doors
- 1-2-1 layout with direct aisle access
- Double beds for couples
- Four-person quad seating for groups or families
Qsuites are available on most Boeing 777s and Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. You can confirm Qsuite availability by checking the aircraft type during booking or by contacting Qatar Airways.
Conclusion
Qatar Airways offers a flexible and user-friendly seat selection system that allows travelers to customize their flight experience. Whether you're looking for extra legroom, a quiet corner, or the privacy of Qsuite, selecting the right seat can make a significant difference.
By understanding the airline's policies, fare types, and your eligibility for free selection, you can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary fees. Don’t forget to use tools like SeatGuru, book early, and leverage your frequent flyer status to get the best seats available.
Safe travels, and May your next flight with Qatar Airways be as comfortable as possible — starting with the perfect seat!
Frequently Asked Questions on Qatar Airways Seat Selection: Complete Guide with Steps
Yes, if you're flying in Business/First Class or on an Economy Comfort fare. Otherwise, you may need to pay unless you wait for online check-in.
You can select a seat during booking, any time via “Manage Booking,” or during online check-in starting 24 hours before departure.
Seat selection fees are generally non-refundable unless Qatar Airways changes your seat due to operational reasons (e.g., aircraft change). In that case, you can request a refund.
Yes, you can still change your seat during online check-in or at the airport, subject to availability.
Preferred seats are usually located in the front of the cabin or in exit rows, offering quicker deplaning or extra legroom.
Check the aircraft type (B777 or A350-1000 usually), or call Qatar Airways. You can also check on forums like FlyerTalk or tools like SeatGuru.
If you want a better location, more legroom, or to sit with your travel companions, it can be worth the fee — especially for long-haul flights.
Yes, Qatar Airways offers bassinet seats on long-haul flights. You must call the airline or make the request through your travel agent well in advance.
