Five Airlines End Free Seat Swaps on Long-Haul Flights
Five Lufthansa Group airlines have changed how seats are handled at online check-in on long-haul flights. Passengers who did not reserve a seat in advance will still receive one automatically, but changing that allocation may now cost extra. The policy applies to Economy and Premium Economy travellers flying with Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and Discover Airlines, and took effect on 1 July.
How the New Seat Rule Works
- Airlines: Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and Discover Airlines
- Start date: 1 July 2026
- Flights affected: Long-haul services
- Cabins: Economy and Premium Economy
- Free option: Keep the seat assigned at check-in
- Paid option: Change the assigned seat
- Typical reported cost: €25–€45 on selected intercontinental routes
- Final price: Varies by route, fare and seat category
Previously, passengers could often switch their automatically assigned standard seat without paying once check-in opened. Under the new system, the cost depends on the route, departure airport, fare and seat category. Reported prices for a standard Economy change on many intercontinental services operated by Lufthansa, Austrian and Brussels Airlines range between €25 and €45, although the final amount appears during check-in.
Travellers who reserve a seat before check-in are not charged again when moving to another available seat in the same or a lower category, subject to the fare rules. Lufthansa says children aged two to eleven will still be seated beside an adult in their group where possible, free of charge at check-in. Anyone who needs a specific window, aisle or neighbouring seat should book earlier.
The change adds another cost to long-haul trips where sitting together or choosing an aisle matters most. Solo travellers happy with any seat can simply keep the free allocation, but couples and families risk fewer suitable options once check-in opens. Comparing seat fees before choosing between Lufthansa Group airlines and rival carriers may now matter almost as much as comparing baggage allowances and the headline fare.