Airline Seat Issues & Passenger Rights
Paid for a specific seat and didn't get it? Separated from your child? There are rules — and you may be entitled to a refund of your seat fee.
What the DOT Requires
Your rights are protected by the US Department of Transportation. Use this information to escalate your case.
There is no federal law guaranteeing a specific seat assignment — airlines may change seats for operational, safety, or weight-and-balance reasons.
If you paid an upgrade fee for a specific seat and the airline moved you, you are entitled to a refund of that fee.
Under the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, airlines must seat children under 13 adjacent to an accompanying adult at no extra charge.
What to say to the airline
Knowing exactly what to say to the customer service agent increases your chances of immediate resolution.
If you paid for a specific seat and were reassigned, request an immediate refund of the seat selection fee.
If the seat change affected a disability accommodation or medical need, cite the Air Carrier Access Act (14 CFR 382) and ask for a supervisor.
Document your original seat assignment and the new assignment in writing — a screenshot of your boarding pass or confirmation email is sufficient.
Avoid: Do not assume there is nothing you can do if you paid a seat upgrade fee — that fee is refundable if the airline changed your assignment.
Avoid: Do not accept 'operational reasons' as a final answer without asking what that means and whether a refund of any fees paid is possible.
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