Wizfair Travels Last Updated On, Feb 12, 2026

Latest Turkish Airlines Seat Selection: Rules, Fees & Step-by-Step Guide

Want to avoid getting stuck in a middle seat on your next Turkish Airlines flight? Understanding how Turkish Airlines seat selection works can help you choose better seats, avoid unnecessary fees, and travel more comfortably.

This guide is for:

Economy passengers wondering if seat selection is free
Families who want to sit together
Tall travelers looking for extra legroom
Frequent flyers trying to avoid seat fees
Anyone booking a long-haul flight

Can I Select Seats on Turkish Airlines?

Yes. Turkish Airlines (TK) allows passengers to pick their seats, but the option depends on its type and the fare you purchase. Some fares include free selection, while others may require an additional fee.

To know if you’re eligible, check your ticket type and review the options available for your booking.

If you’re flying long-haul (10+ hours), extra legroom is worth it.
For short domestic flights, wait for check-in.

Understanding Turkish Airlines Seat Selection Policy

Before you choose, you must understand the Turkish Airlines seat selection policy. Here are the highlights of the airline’s rules to pick your spots onboard -

Timing - You can choose your comfort space during booking, after booking, or at online check-in. Availability depends on your fare type, route, and cabin class.
Paid vs. Free Selection - Paid seat selection is available only after ticketing. Free seat selection is available with a valid reservation.
Passengers with Medical Needs - Travelers who are sick or have reduced mobility may choose one at the aisle or window. Emergency exit ones are not allowed.
Group Bookings - Paid selection for groups (more than 9 passengers) is valid only if booked directly through the airline’s Reservation System.
Emergency Exit Restrictions - Spots at the emergency exit are not suitable for passengers with infants, limited mobility, or those requiring an extra seat belt.
Extra-Legroom Restrictions - Travelers having pets, guide dogs, or emotional support dogs can’t choose extra-legroom and emergency exit ones.
Promotional Fares - Some promotional fares do not allow selection in advance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choose Seats on Turkish Airlines

You can pick your spots on TK flights during a booking, after purchasing tickets, and at check-in. The airline offers a seat map so you can view layout and availability. This helps you plan better.

Now, see how you can pick seats on Turkish Airlines easily.

a) During Booking

Visit the airline's homepage.
Select “Flight” in the booking tool.
Follow the flight booking steps as per the onscreen prompts.
Hit “Search flights”.
Select your fare type.
Enter your personal information.
Select your seat from its layout.
Make payment and complete checkout.

b) After Booking

Click “Manage Booking” or “Seat Selection” on the airline’s homepage.
Enter your ticket number or reservation code (PNR) and your surname.
Select your spot.
Pay the fees.

c) At Check-In

Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure.
Log in with your booking details.
View the remaining available ones.
Select your preferred one from the available options.
Confirm your selection and complete check-in.

No matter which Turkish seat selection method you choose, you will receive confirmation via email. Always double-check the numbers of cabin spots after payment.

Please note

You can grab your cabin choices while booking your ticket or up to 6 hours before departure.
Selection may be free or paid, depending on your ticket type, travel class, and frequent flyer status.
Always review your fare rules before confirming.
If booking through a travel website, you can often select seats there directly. This saves time and ensures everything stays in one place.

Turkish Airlines Seat Selection Fees

A Turkish Airlines seat selection comes for a fee when you are traveling in Economy Class. Fees to choose your seating space on TK flights vary based on:

Ticket
Route
Seat type

However, Business Class travelers can choose their spots onboard for free on all flights up to 355 days before flight.

Economy Class Seat Selection Fees

The selection period is 355 days - 6 hours before flight.

Route	Seat type	Fees
THY domestic and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus flights	Standard	75.00 TRY - 165.00 TRY
THY domestic and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus flights	Preferred	110.00 TRY - 230.00 TRY
THY domestic and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus flights	Extra legroom	155.00 TRY - 325.00 TRY
THY domestic and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus flights	Emergency exit	145.00 TRY - 295.00 TRY
THY international flights	Standard	15.00 USD - 60.00 USD
THY international flights	Preferred	20.00 USD - 100.00 USD
THY international flights	Extra legroom	24.00 USD - 249.00 USD
THY international flights	Emergency exit	24.00 USD - 200.00 USD
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus flights	All Seats	59.00 TRY - 249.00 TRY

Source: https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-gb/any-questions/seat-selection-terms-and-conditions/#:~:text=Paid%20seat%20selection%20is%20only,emergency%20exit%20on%20all%20flights.

Please note

Free standard and preferred seats for THY domestic and international flights; Miles&Smiles Elite and Elite Plus Members and their relatives sharing the same PNR number with members. They can select between 355 days and 6 hours before flight.
For operational reasons, Business Class selection is unavailable on flights arriving at or departing from Ankara.
Fees are per passenger and per segment. Always check exact pricing during booking. Paying early gives you better choices.

Fees for Flights from Canada to Istanbul

Take a look at special Economy Class fees for flights departing from Canada and heading to Istanbul. The selection period is 355 days - 6 hours before flight.

Seat Type	Price (In CAD)
Standard	55
Preferred	108
Extra legroom	216
Emergency exit	216

Source: https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-gb/any-questions/seat-selection-terms-and-conditions/#:~:text=Paid%20seat%20selection%20is%20only,emergency%20exit%20on%20all%20flights.

Best Seats on Turkish Airlines (Practical Advice)

Choosing the right seat can significantly improve your flight experience, especially on long-haul routes.

Here’s what to consider:

1. Best Seats for Couples

Window + aisle combination (if middle seats remain empty)

Two-seat side sections on wide-body aircraft (like A350 or B787)

These configurations give couples privacy and extra space.

Avoid:

Exit rows (often separated by aircraft layout)
Seats near lavatories (less privacy)

2. Best Seats for Long-Haul Flights

For flights over 8 hours:

Extra-legroom seats
Bulkhead seats (more space in front)
Front cabin Economy seats (quieter and faster exit)

Long-haul comfort matters more, so paying extra may be worth it.

3. Best Seats for Tall Passengers

If you’re over 6 feet tall:

Extra-legroom seats
Emergency exit rows (if eligible)
Bulkhead seats

These offer significantly more leg space compared to standard seats.

Important: Emergency exit seats come with eligibility restrictions.

Seat Selection Hacks Frequent Flyers Use

Experienced travelers use simple strategies to avoid paying unnecessary seat selection fees:

Check aircraft type before booking (A350 and B787 have better Economy layouts).
Book window + aisle when flying as a couple (middle often remains empty).
Monitor seat map changes closer to departure.
Upgrade strategically if the extra legroom cost is high on long routes.

How to Get Free Seat Selection on Turkish Airlines

Many passengers don’t realize they can avoid paying for Turkish Airlines seats. Here are practical ways to reduce or eliminate seat selection costs:

Business Class: Free selection (except flights to/from Ankara).
Extra Seat: Buy an additional for space and baggage; both seats include free selection.
Upgrade Packages: ExtraFly or PremiumFly packages allow free standard selection up to 1.5 hours before departure.
Elite Status: Miles&Smiles Elite and Elite Plus members, and relatives on the same PNR, enjoy complimentary selection.

Final Thoughts: Is Turkish Airlines Seat Selection Worth It?

TK seat selection can improve comfort, save time, and help families sit together. However, not all passengers need to pay.

Before paying a Turkish Airlines seat selection fee, consider:

Your flight duration
Seat availability at check-in
Fare type benefits
Elite membership status

If you prefer expert assistance while booking your Turkish Airlines ticket, travel advisors like Wizfair Travels can guide you through seat options and fare comparisons to help you make the best decision.

FAQs

Is Turkish Airlines seat selection free?

The Airline offers free seat selection for Business Class passengers, Miles & Smiles Elite members, and travelers during online check-in. Economy passengers may need to pay depending on fare type.

How much is the Turkish Airlines seat selection fee?

The TK seat selection fee ranges from 15 USD to 249 USD on international routes and 75 TRY to 325 TRY on domestic flights, depending on route, seat type, and fare class..

Is Turkish Airlines strict about seat rules?

Yes, the airline is strict about seat rules, especially for paid selections, emergency exit eligibility, and infant, pet, or extra-seat policies.

How to choose a seat on Turkish Airlines after booking?

You can choose your seat through the Manage Booking section on the official website using your reservation code (PNR) and surname.

What are Turkish Airlines emergency exit seat rules?

Emergency exit seats are not available for passengers with infants, limited mobility, or those requiring seatbelt extensions. Passengers must meet safety eligibility requirements.

Is paying for a Turkish Airlines preferred seat worth it?

Yes, the airline's preferred seat is ideal for passengers with tight connections or those who want quicker boarding and exit.

Why can't I choose my seat on Turkish Airlines?

You may have a restricted promotional fare, temporary seat map limitations, or the flight may be fully assigned. Try again during check-in.