top of page

How Do I Select My Seat on Ethiopian Airlines?

  • Writer: ToursN TravelPro
    ToursN TravelPro
  • Dec 2, 2025
  • 5 min read
Airplane at snowy airport with festive lights. Text: "Christmas Flight Deals 50% Off," contact info, and website. Holiday travel offer.

Introduction

Choosing the right seat can make a dramatic difference in your overall flight experience, especially when flying internationally with a major carrier like Ethiopian Airlines. Whether you prefer extra legroom, a window view, a quiet zone, or a seat closer to the front for faster exit, understanding the Ethiopian Airlines Seat Selection process is essential.

Many travelers aren’t aware of the available seating options, how to use the Ethiopian Airlines seat map, what the seat selection fee looks like, or when they qualify for free selection. On top of that, certain routes, aircraft, and fare types come with different rules.

This comprehensive guide breaks down every detail—from how to choose a seat, upgrade options, fees, tips, and policies—so you can finalize your seating plan confidently before your next journey. If you ever need personalized help, Tours N Travel Pro is just a phone call away at +1-866-679-5070.


👉 Quick Overview: Ethiopian Airlines Seat Selection

Fast & Easy Seat Choice: Ethiopian Airlines allows travelers to select preferred seats during booking, after booking, or at check-in using the airline’s seat map for better visibility.

  • Free Seat Options: Passengers with higher-tier fares, ShebaMiles elites, and travelers checking in early can often choose standard seats for free.

  • Paid Seat Choices: Extra legroom seats, preferred front-row seats, and special cabin seats come with a separate Ethiopian Airlines seat selection fee depending on route and aircraft.

  • Upgrades & Premium Perks: You can request Ethiopian Airlines seat upgrades to Business Class for more comfort, better meals, and priority services.

  • Helpful Tools: The Ethiopian Airlines seat map helps identify the best seat locations—ideal for families, long-haul flights, or passengers with special needs.

📲 Need expert guidance or want quick assistance choosing or upgrading your seat? Call Tours N Travel Pro at +1-866-679-5070.

Understanding Ethiopian Airlines Seat Selection

Ethiopian Airlines gives passengers the flexibility to choose their seats in advance based on fare class, availability, and desired comfort level. Whether you're flying regionally within Africa or taking a long-haul journey to North America, Europe, or Asia, the airline offers multiple ways to select seats easily.


What Is Ethiopian Airlines Seat Selection?

The seat selection feature allows passengers to choose from standard seats, front-row seats, extra legroom options, or other special locations before departure. This can be done:

  • During flight booking

  • After purchase via “Manage Booking”

  • At check-in (online or at the airport)

The best part is the clear visualization provided by the Ethiopian Airlines seat map, which shows seat availability and cabin layout.


Why Seat Selection Matters

Some travelers simply take the seat assigned automatically, but choosing your seat gives you:

  • More control over comfort

  • Extra legroom or quiet zones

  • Faster exit after landing

  • Specific location (aisle, window, bulkhead, exit row)

  • The ability to sit with family or travel partners

Because Ethiopian Airlines flies modern aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350, selecting the right seat means a smoother and more personalized journey.


How to Select Your Seat on Ethiopian Airlines (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Choose Your Seat During Booking

This is the most convenient option. When you book your flight, the system will display a seat map showing available seats in your chosen cabin.

Steps:

  1. Visit Ethiopian Airlines’ official website

  2. Search your flight and choose date & destination

  3. Enter passenger details

  4. When the seat map appears, pick your preferred seat

  5. Pay any applicable seat selection fee

This method usually offers the widest selection.


2. Select Your Seat After Booking (Manage Booking)

If you didn’t choose your seat during purchase, you can still do it afterward.

How:

  1. Go to “Manage Booking”

  2. Enter your booking reference and last name

  3. Open the Ethiopian Airlines seat map

  4. Select the seat you want

  5. Confirm and pay any fees

This is useful if you need to sit with family or want to upgrade later.


3. Select Your Seat at Online Check-in (24 Hours Before Departure)

If you want to avoid seat selection charges for standard seats, checking in early helps. Some seats may open up for free during this time.

Benefits:

  • Best for last-minute travelers

  • Some fare types can select without additional cost

  • Can still view the Ethiopian Airlines seat map during check-in

4. Seat Selection at the Airport

Travelers who forget to choose seats earlier can still request them at the airport counter. However, availability is limited and extra legroom seats may already be taken.


Ethiopian Airlines Seat Map Explained

The Ethiopian Airlines seat map is a tool that lets you view the exact aircraft layout for your flight. The airline operates:

  • Boeing 787 Dreamliners

  • Airbus A350

  • Boeing 777 Models

  • Boeing 737s for regional flights

What the seat map shows:

  • Cabin layout (Economy, Business)

  • Location of restrooms, galleys

  • Extra legroom rows

  • Exit rows

  • Bulkhead areas

  • Preferred window/aisle positions

This helps you avoid undesirable seats near lavatories or choose the quietest rows.


Ethiopian Airlines Seat Selection Fee

Seat selection fees vary based on aircraft type, route, and seat category. The fees typically apply to:

Extra Legroom Seats

  • Located near exit rows

  • Higher comfort for long flights

  • Separate Ethiopian Airlines seat selection fee

Preferred Seats

  • Front of the cabin

  • Faster disembarkation

  • Often priced slightly lower than extra legroom seats

Standard Seats

  • Free for some fare types

  • Charged for basic economy or discounted tickets

Bulkhead Seats

  • Extra knee space

  • Ideal for families with infants

Charges vary but are generally reasonable compared to most airlines.


Ethiopian Airlines Seat Upgrade Options

Passengers looking for additional comfort can explore the Ethiopian Airlines seat upgrade program.

Upgrade Benefits:

  • Lie-flat Business Class seats (on long-haul aircraft)

  • Lounge access

  • Priority baggage & boarding

  • Premium meals and drinks

Upgrades can be requested:

  • During booking

  • Through Manage Booking

  • During check-in

  • At the airport (if seats remain available)

For quick advice on the best upgrade options, you can always contact Tours N Travel Pro at +1-866-679-5070.

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. Does Ethiopian Airlines charge for seat selection?

Yes, Ethiopian Airlines charges a seat selection fee for preferred seats, bulkhead seats, and extra legroom seats. Standard seats may be free depending on your fare type or if selected during online check-in.


2. Can I choose my seat on Ethiopian Airlines for free?

Yes—passengers with certain fare types or ShebaMiles elite status can choose standard seats for free. Free seats may also be available closer to departure during online check-in.


3. Does Ethiopian Airlines have good legroom?

Ethiopian Airlines offers generous legroom in Economy on most aircraft, especially on the A350 and B787 fleets. Extra legroom seats provide additional space for a small fee.


4. How do I access the Ethiopian Airlines seat map?

You can view the Ethiopian Airlines seat map during booking, through Manage Booking, or at online check-in. It visually displays all available and occupied seats.


5. Can I upgrade my seat on Ethiopian Airlines after booking?

Yes, Ethiopian Airlines allows seat upgrades before departure. You can upgrade online or at the airport—and Business Class upgrades are often available at competitive rates.


Key Takeaways

  • Ethiopian Airlines seat selection offers multiple choices, from standard seats to extra legroom areas.

  • The Ethiopian Airlines seat map helps passengers choose the best spot before flying.

  • Seat selection fees apply for premium seats, while some standard seats may be free.

  • You can upgrade to Business Class for more comfort and exclusive benefits.

  • For quick seat assistance or upgrade guidance, contact Tours N Travel Pro at +1-866-679-5070.


Conclusion

Selecting your seat on Ethiopian Airlines is simple, flexible, and designed to give travelers more control over their comfort. Whether you prefer extra legroom, a quiet zone, or the convenience of front-row seating, the airline gives you multiple ways to choose your perfect spot. Understanding the Ethiopian Airlines Seat Selection process, along with seat maps, fees, and upgrade options, ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.

If you want personalized assistance, better deals, or easy guidance with seat upgrades or reservations, Tours N Travel Pro is here to help. Call us anytime at +1-866-679-5070.

Comments


bottom of page