– Do frequent flyer status members get priority for extra legroom seats on Korean Air?
How to get extra legroom seats on Korean Air? If you’re planning a trip with Korean Air and you value comfort during your flight, securing extra legroom seats can make your journey much more enjoyable. This comprehensive guide outlines effective strategies to not only find but also book those coveted extra legroom seats on Korean Air, helping you travel in comfort, whether for business or leisure.
Understanding Extra Legroom Seats on Korean Air
When considering how to get extra legroom seats on Korean Air, it’s essential first to understand what these seats are and where you can find them. Extra legroom seats are usually located in specific areas of the aircraft, often featuring additional space between the rows compared to standard seats.
Types of Extra Legroom Seats
Korean Air offers several options for extra legroom seating, mainly in their Economy Class:
- Emerald Class: Situated at the front of the Economy Class cabin, these seats provide additional legroom and are typically available for a nominal fee.
- Exit Row Seats: These seats are known for their generous legroom but may have restrictions, such as being unable to recline during takeoff and landing.
- Bulkhead Seats: Located at the front of the cabin sections, bulkhead seats can offer more space, though they might lack under-seat storage, making them suitable for travelers without significant luggage.
Booking Extra Legroom Seats on Korean Air
Early Booking Benefits
One of the most effective ways of ensuring you get extra legroom seats is to book your flight early. Korean Air often allows passengers to select seats as soon as they purchase their tickets. Here’s how:
- Book as soon as possible: Seats tend to fill up, and the earlier you book, the better your chances of securing extra legroom.
- Use the Korean Air website or app: When booking through the official Korean Air site or mobile app, you can see available seat options directly after selecting your flight.
Seat Selection Process
To secure extra legroom seats, follow these steps during the booking process:
- Select your flight: Choose your preferred flight and passenger details.
- Access the seat selection menu: On the confirmation page, click on the seat selection option.
- Filter for extra legroom seats: Look for categories that indicate space, such as “Emerald Class” or “Exit Row”.
- Choose your seat: Once you find an available seat, confirm your choice and complete your booking.
Utilizing Frequent Flyer Programs
Join Korean Air’s Skypass Program
Another effective strategy on how to get extra legroom seats on Korean Air is to leverage the airline’s frequent flyer program:
- Accumulating miles: By joining the Skypass program, you can earn miles that can be used towards seat upgrades, including extra legroom options.
- Status benefits: Higher-tier members (such as Silver and Gold) often enjoy complimentary upgrades and better access to preferred seating choices.
Redeeming Miles for Upgrades
If you’ve accrued sufficient miles, consider placing an upgrade request. This can increase your chance of landing extra legroom seats:
- Request upgrades during booking: While finalizing your ticket, you can confirm upgrade requests. Ensure availability and follow the prompts to apply your miles.
- Check back for available upgrades: Frequent passengers often experience last-minute upgrade releases, so keep monitoring your booking closer to departure.
Using Travel Agents or Online Platforms
If you prefer not to navigate this process yourself, consider enlisting the services of a travel agent or using reputable online travel platforms. These can provide valuable insights on how to get extra legroom seats on Korean Air:
- Expert advice: Travel agents often have access to exclusive promotions or can help you find the best flight and seating options.
- Online travel services: Websites like Expedia or Kayak allow you to compare seat options across different airlines, including Korean Air, while hinting at extras like legroom availability.
Checking In Early or At the Airport
Online Check-in
Another useful tip on how to get extra legroom seats on Korean Air is to check in early. Here’s how to approach online check-in:
- Timing is everything: Korean Air opens online check-in 24 hours before departure. Log in as soon as check-in opens.
- Choose your seat wisely: During online check-in, you may still have access to available extra legroom seats that others might have overlooked.
Airport Check-in Strategies
If online check-in was missed, arriving early at the airport can also yield positive results:
- Talk to the agents: Approach the check-in counter and politely ask for extra legroom seating options. Sometimes, if seats are available, agents may offer a seat upgrade at no additional charge.
- Standby for upgrades: If not initially offered, inquire about any available upgrades to extra legroom at the gate or during boarding.
Understanding Seat Release Policies
Korean Air may not publish specific details on how to get extra legroom seats on Korean Air, particularly regarding seat release and availability. However, knowing their policies can guide your approach:
- Last-minute seat releases: Airlines often release seats close to departure. Checking frequently after booking can help you snag a prime seat.
- Cancellations and no-shows: If other passengers cancel last minute or do not show up, their extra legroom seats could become available. Keep an eye on open seats on your flight day.
Exploring Upgrade Options
Purchase Upgrades
If you’re still looking to enhance your comfort, consider purchasing an upgrade to a higher class, such as Premium Economy. This class often features additional legroom and added amenities, significantly improving your flying experience.
Using Codeshare Partners
In some instances, your ticket might be associated with a codeshare partner. If booked through a partner airline, inquire about their policies regarding extra legroom seating for codeshares.
Final Considerations
Before embarking on your journey, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the various options available for securing extra legroom. Alongside the advantages of legroom seats, consider the overall flight experience, including in-flight services and entertainment, which differ between aircraft.
If you’re serious about maximizing your comfort, plan ahead, harness the tools at your disposal, and don’t hesitate to ask for what you need during booking and check-in.
Summary Table of Extra Legroom Options on Korean Air
Type of Seat | Location | Notes |
Emerald Class | Front of Economy Class | Available for a fee, more legroom |
Exit Row Seats | Near emergency exits | More legroom, restrictions apply |
Bulkhead Seats | First row of cabin sections | Increased space, potential for limited storage |
By following the strategies outlined above, you can significantly enhance your travel comfort with Korean Air. For additional details on seating and upgrades, consider visiting the official Korean Air website or consulting their customer service team.