Understanding Qantas Seat Selection Timing
Understanding when you can select your seat on a Qantas flight is crucial for planning a comfortable journey. While the desire to pick a window or aisle seat is common, the specific timing varies based on several factors, including your fare type, when you booked, and whether you are traveling on a Qantas operated flight or a partner airline.
Generally, Qantas offers seat selection from the time of booking through to the completion of online check-in. However, accessing this service without additional cost or restriction depends heavily on the fare family purchased. For instance, flexible fares or those purchased with points often provide earlier and more extensive seat selection privileges compared to basic economy options. Navigating these rules ensures you can proactively manage your seating arrangements and avoid surprises at the gate. This article details the precise windows and conditions under which you can select your preferred seat on Qantas services, empowering you to make informed decisions for your next trip.
- Seat selection timing on Qantas depends on fare type and booking details.
- You can typically select seats from booking up to check-in completion.
- Some fares include free standard seat selection; others may incur fees.
- Operated vs. marketed flights can affect seat selection rules.
- Manage your booking online or via the Qantas app for seat changes.
When Can You Select Your Seat on a Qantas Flight?
The primary window for selecting your seat on a Qantas flight opens as soon as your booking is confirmed and remains available until online check-in closes. However, the *conditions* under which you can select a seat, and whether there's a cost associated, are dictated by the fare purchased. This is the most vital distinction to grasp.
For most fare types, particularly those booked directly with Qantas, seat selection can be managed through the 'Manage My Booking' portal on the Qantas website or via the Qantas mobile app. This functionality is typically active from the moment your booking is finalized until the online check-in period commences. If you booked through a travel agent or a third-party site, you may need to contact them initially to add your Qantas booking reference or wait for the booking to be accessible directly on the Qantas platform.
Seat Selection Rights by Fare Type
Qantas organizes its fares into families, each with distinct benefits regarding seat selection. Understanding your fare family is paramount to knowing when and how you can select a seat without additional charges.
Economy Class Fares
Economy Standard: This is a common fare where you can select standard seats for free from 24 hours before departure until online check-in closes. However, premium seats (e.g., extra legroom, front-row) often incur a fee, even within this window. You can often pay for these premium seats earlier via 'Manage My Booking'.
Economy Basic: This is Qantas's most restrictive economy fare. Seat selection is generally not included and is only available for a fee, which can be paid when booking or later through 'Manage My Booking'. If you do not pay for a seat, one will be automatically assigned to you during check-in.
Economy Flex: This fare offers the most flexibility. You can select any standard seat free of charge from the time of booking until online check-in opens. Premium seats may still attract a fee, but you have broader access to standard options. If you are traveling on an Economy Flex fare, you have the advantage of securing your preferred standard seat well in advance.
Premium Economy, Business, and First Class
Passengers flying in Premium Economy, Business, or First Class generally enjoy complimentary selection of any available seat within their respective cabins from the moment of booking. This includes access to all standard seats and often more desirable options within the cabin. The aim is to provide a premium experience from the outset, so seat selection is typically unrestricted and without charge.
This entitlement extends to passengers traveling on eligible fare types in these premium cabins. If you hold a booking in Business or First Class, you should be able to access the seat map and choose your preferred seat immediately after your booking is confirmed. For those flying in Premium Economy, the same privilege generally applies, allowing you to finalize your seating arrangements early.
You can access seat selection options via the Qantas website or app.
When Paid Seat Selection Becomes Available
For travelers on Economy Basic fares, or those on Economy Standard or Flex who wish to upgrade to a premium seat (like extra legroom or front-row seats), the opportunity to pay for these upgrades typically arises at the time of booking or anytime thereafter via the 'Manage My Booking' section. Qantas aims to make this process as straightforward as possible, allowing you to view available paid options and complete the transaction seamlessly before check-in. If you choose not to pay for a specific seat, you will be allocated one automatically during the check-in process, which opens 24 hours before departure.
Even if you have not paid for a seat, you can still check availability and see the associated fees for specific seats through 'Manage My Booking'. This transparency allows you to decide whether the cost of a preferred seat is worthwhile for your journey.
The ability to select *any* standard seat for free is a key differentiator between fare types. For instance, if you are on an Economy Flex fare, you gain this privilege from booking, whereas Economy Basic passengers must pay for a specific seat or accept an assigned one at check-in. This distinction underscores the importance of understanding your fare rules before you fly.
Remember, even if you don't select or pay for a seat in advance, one will be assigned to you upon check-in, which opens 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. For travelers on Economy Basic fares, this assigned seat is the only option unless you choose to pay for an upgrade.
Check your specific fare rules to confirm your seat selection entitlements.
Selecting Seats on Partner Airlines
When your Qantas booking includes travel on a partner airline, the seat selection process can differ significantly. This is because each airline operates under its own policies, fare rules, and booking systems. If your Qantas flight number is on the ticket but another airline is operating the flight (often referred to as a codeshare flight), you might need to engage with the operating carrier for seat selection, especially if you booked the ticket through Qantas but the flight is operated by, say, American Airlines or Emirates.
For flights operated by a Qantas partner, Qantas generally advises that seat selection should be managed directly with the operating airline. This usually means visiting the partner airline's website and using their 'Manage Booking' or similar portal, often requiring your booking reference number provided by the operating airline (which may differ from your Qantas booking reference). The timing and availability of seats, as well as any associated fees, will strictly adhere to the partner airline's policies, not Qantas'.
Navigating Codeshare Seat Selection
If your journey involves multiple flight segments, some operated by Qantas and others by partners, you will likely need to manage seat selection separately for each segment. For example, if you have a Qantas flight from Sydney to Los Angeles and then a connecting flight from Los Angeles to London on a partner airline, you would use Qantas's system for the first leg and the partner airline's system for the second. This can sometimes be a point of confusion for travelers who expect a single, unified process across all legs of their journey.
To simplify this, it's always best to identify which airline is operating each flight in your itinerary. This information is usually detailed when you make your booking and is present on your confirmation email. Once identified, visit the respective airline's website and look for their seat selection or manage booking options. Be prepared that free seat selection rights may differ. For instance, a fare that offers free seat selection on Qantas might not have the same benefit on a partner airline.
Always confirm the operating carrier for each flight segment.
Do not assume Qantas's seat selection policies apply to partner flights.
It's also worth noting that even if Qantas can add your preferred seat to your booking record for a partner flight, the actual management and confirmation of that seat selection reside with the operating airline. In cases of schedule changes or disruptions, the partner airline will be the one to re-seat you, potentially overriding any selection made via Qantas. Therefore, direct management with the operating carrier is the most reliable approach.
For Qantas codeshare flights, Qantas may facilitate the initial seat selection request, but the operating airline has the final say.
If you have specific seating requirements, such as medical needs or traveling with infants requiring bassinets, you must communicate these directly to the operating airline when managing your booking on their platform.
Always double-check the operating carrier for each flight in your itinerary and visit that airline's website for seat selection to avoid last-minute issues.
If you encounter difficulties locating the correct portal or using the partner airline's system, Qantas customer service can often provide guidance on where to direct your query, though they may not be able to make the selection for you directly.
How to Select Your Seat
Selecting your seat on a Qantas flight is a straightforward process, primarily managed online. The method slightly varies depending on whether you are selecting a standard seat for free or paying for a premium option, and whether it's a Qantas-operated flight or a codeshare.
Using 'Manage My Booking'
The most common way to select your seat is through the 'Manage My Booking' feature on the Qantas website or the Qantas mobile app. Once your booking is confirmed, you can log in using your booking reference and surname, or your Qantas Frequent Flyer details if you are logged in. After accessing your booking, look for an option related to 'Seat Selection' or 'Change Seat'.
If your fare type permits free standard seat selection, you will be presented with an interactive seat map of your aircraft cabin. You can then click on any available standard seat to select it. If you wish to choose a premium seat (e.g., extra legroom, bulkhead, or exit row), the system will display the associated fee. You can proceed to pay for this seat and confirm your selection. If you are on an Economy Basic fare and haven't paid for a seat selection, you will be offered one during the check-in process.
During the Booking Process
For many fare types, especially flexible economy, premium economy, business, and first class, seat selection is often available directly at the time of booking. As you progress through the booking flow on the Qantas website, after selecting your flights and entering passenger details, you may be prompted to choose your seats. This allows you to secure your preferred spot from the very beginning.
This is particularly advantageous if you are traveling during peak periods or have specific seating preferences. For example, if you're traveling as a family, you can try to select adjacent seats together from the outset. However, be aware that even during booking, premium seats might carry an additional charge, depending on your fare family.
The 'Manage My Booking' portal is your central hub for seat adjustments.
For Economy Basic fares, the initial booking process may not offer seat selection; this option becomes available later, often at check-in.
Via the Qantas Mobile App
The Qantas mobile app provides a convenient way to manage your booking, including seat selection. Download the app, log in with your Qantas account or booking reference, and navigate to your upcoming flight. The app will display your booking details, and you should find an option to select or change your seat. This is especially useful for making last-minute adjustments or confirming your selection while on the go.
For optimal seat selection, aim to do it as early as possible.
If you're traveling with companions and want to sit together, select your seats as soon as your booking is confirmed, especially if you are on a fare that allows free standard seat selection.
If you have specific needs, such as requiring extra legroom due to a medical condition, you may need to contact Qantas directly rather than relying solely on the online system. While the online system accommodates paid extra legroom seats, specific medical needs might require special arrangements.
When is Seat Selection Available at Check-in?
For travelers who haven't selected or paid for a seat in advance, the opportunity to secure a seat arises during the online check-in period. Qantas's online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before the scheduled departure time of your flight and closes 90 minutes before departure for international flights, and 30-45 minutes before for domestic and regional flights. During this window, if a seat has not already been assigned to you, you will be prompted to select one from the remaining available seats.
This is particularly relevant for passengers booked on Economy Basic fares, where paid seat selection is optional, and for those on Economy Standard or Flex fares who chose not to pay for premium seats or did not select a standard seat earlier. The selection available at check-in is limited to what is left after all advance selections and paid upgrades have been made. Therefore, the choices might be more restricted, potentially leaving you with middle seats or those less desirable in the cabin.
Automatic Seat Assignment
If you do not actively select a seat during the online check-in period, Qantas will automatically assign you a seat at no extra charge. This assignment is typically done to balance the aircraft load and ensure all passengers are seated. While this guarantees you a place on the flight, it means you have no control over where you will sit. The system will allocate whatever seat is available at the time of assignment.
This automatic assignment is the fallback for all passengers who haven't secured a seat beforehand, irrespective of their fare type, though those with higher fare classes (Business, First) or who have paid for a seat will have had their preference honored prior to this stage. It's a last resort to ensure operational efficiency.
Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure.
The seat selection options at check-in are limited to remaining seats.
What to Expect if You Don't Select a Seat
If you wait until check-in and do not select a seat, or if you miss the online check-in window entirely, a seat will be assigned to you automatically. This assigned seat might not be ideal. For example, you could be seated at the front or rear of the cabin, in a middle seat, or separated from travel companions. While Qantas endeavors to seat families together when possible, this is not guaranteed if seats have not been pre-selected or paid for.
It is generally recommended to select your seat as early as possible, especially if you have strong preferences or are traveling with others. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of being assigned an undesirable seat or being separated from your group. The fees for advance seat selection are often nominal compared to the potential discomfort of an unsuitably assigned seat for a long-haul journey.
Automatic assignment is the default if no selection is made.
Consider paying for a preferred seat to guarantee placement.
To avoid being separated from travel companions, select seats together during booking or as soon as possible via 'Manage My Booking', even if it means paying a fee for premium options.
Should you receive an undesirable seat assignment upon check-in and find that other seats are still available on the seat map (which can happen if many passengers have not selected seats), you may be able to change it through the check-in interface before finalizing. However, this is not always guaranteed and depends on the system's availability at that moment.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
While Qantas aims to make seat selection clear, several common issues can arise if travelers are not fully aware of the process and their entitlements. Understanding these pitfalls beforehand can save you frustration and ensure a more comfortable flight experience.
Misunderstanding Fare Rules
The most frequent error is assuming all fare types include free standard seat selection. As detailed, Economy Basic fares often do not. Travelers might book the cheapest option, expecting to pick a seat later for free, only to find they must pay or accept an automatic assignment. Always verify your fare family and its specific seat selection inclusions before booking or when managing your booking.
Relying on Partner Airline Policies
For codeshare flights, assuming Qantas's seat selection rules apply to the operating airline is a common mistake. Each airline has its own system, fees, and windows for selection. This can lead to missed opportunities or unexpected charges. It is vital to identify the operating carrier and manage seat selection directly through their platform, adhering to their specific policies.
Booking with Travel Agents
When a booking is made through a third-party travel agent or online travel agency (OTA), seat selection can sometimes be delayed or complicated. Your booking might not immediately appear in the 'Manage My Booking' system on the Qantas website. In such cases, you may need to contact the travel agent to make the seat selection on your behalf or wait until the booking is fully integrated into Qantas's system, which can take some time.
Always verify your fare's seat selection benefits.
Identify the operating airline for codeshare flights.
Seat Selection Fees Not Clear
While Qantas clearly lists fees for premium seats, some passengers might overlook these charges or be surprised by them. The fees can vary based on the specific seat location and flight. Ensure you check the price displayed for any premium seat you wish to select before confirming your choice. The system will usually show the total cost for your booking, including any seat selection fees, before you finalize payment.
The Qantas website and app are the primary tools for managing your seats.
If you encounter issues managing your booking online, or if your booking was made via a third party, contact Qantas customer service for assistance. They can often clarify your entitlements and guide you through the process.
For premium seats (like extra legroom), consider paying at booking or soon after, as these are often the first to be taken, especially on popular routes or during busy travel periods.
Last-Minute Changes and Availability
Seat availability can change rapidly. Popular seats, especially those with extra legroom or in bulkhead rows, are often selected early. If you wait too long, you might find your preferred options are gone. Furthermore, if there are any flight changes or aircraft swaps, your selected seat may be re-assigned. While Qantas attempts to re-seat passengers in comparable locations, it's not always possible, particularly if you've chosen a premium seat and the new aircraft configuration differs.
If your seat selection is changed by Qantas due to an aircraft swap or schedule change, and you are not satisfied with the new assignment, contact Qantas customer service to explore your options for re-selection or potential compensation if applicable.
To mitigate these risks, it is always advisable to complete your seat selection as early as possible after booking, especially for long-haul flights or when traveling with specific needs or companions. Regular checks of 'Manage My Booking' can also alert you to any changes made by the airline.
Premium and Specific Seat Types Explained
Qantas offers various seat types beyond standard economy, each with different characteristics and associated benefits or costs. Understanding these premium options and specific seat types can help you make informed decisions when selecting your seat, ensuring a more comfortable and convenient journey.
Economy Extra Legroom Seats
These seats are typically located in the front rows of the economy cabin or in designated exit rows. As the name suggests, they offer significantly more legroom than standard economy seats, providing greater comfort, especially on longer flights. Passengers who are tall or simply value extra space often opt for these. On most Qantas Economy fares, these seats are available for selection for an additional fee, which can be paid at the time of booking or later via 'Manage My Booking'.
The availability of extra legroom seats is generally good if you book them early. However, for passengers to occupy exit row seats, they must meet certain safety requirements. These include being at least 15 years old, able to understand and assist in an emergency, and not traveling with an infant or a person requiring assistance. These conditions are strictly enforced for safety reasons.
Bulkhead and Front Row Seats
Seats in the first row of any cabin (bulkhead seats) can offer advantages such as no seat in front of you, which can feel more spacious and allow for easier access to the aisle. However, they might also have limitations. For instance, bulkhead seats may have fixed armrests or tray tables in the armrest, and sometimes the tray table and entertainment screen are stored in the armrest, reducing the perceived width of the seat. Furthermore, these seats often do not have under-seat storage due to the bulkhead structure.
On some aircraft, front-row economy seats are also designated as premium economy or offer enhanced features. Qantas may charge a fee for these seats, similar to extra legroom options, providing an opportunity to upgrade your seating experience within the economy cabin.
Premium seats offer enhanced comfort and space.
Exit row seats require compliance with safety regulations.
Business Class and First Class Seats
These are the highest tiers of seating available on Qantas flights. Business Class seats are designed for comfort and productivity, often featuring lie-flat capabilities, ample personal space, direct aisle access for most passengers, and enhanced dining and service. First Class takes this a step further, offering private suites, premium amenities, and a highly personalized, luxurious travel experience. Selection of these seats is complimentary for passengers who have booked these fare classes, and they typically have access to the most desirable positions within their respective cabins.
The specifications for Business and First Class seats vary significantly by aircraft type. Qantas operates different fleets, from Boeing 737s and A320s on shorter routes to wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner for long-haul international services. Each aircraft type features unique cabin configurations and seat designs. For example, Qantas's A380 First Class suites are renowned for their spaciousness and privacy, while its newer 787 Business Suites offer a more compact yet highly functional design.
Business and First Class seats are generally free to select for passengers in those cabins.
Aircraft type influences the specific design and amenities of premium seats.
If you have specific accessibility needs or require a bassinet, contact Qantas reservations directly. These seats are often allocated manually and cannot always be selected online.
When selecting seats in these premium cabins, you will have access to a seat map showing the layout. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with the cabin configuration, particularly the location of galleys, lavatories, and exit doors, as proximity to these can sometimes affect noise levels or passenger traffic. Most premium seats offer excellent amenity kits, bedding, and dining services, contributing to a superior travel experience.
What About Specific Cabin Classes?
Understanding how seat selection applies across different cabin classes on Qantas is vital. While the core principle of selecting seats either freely or for a fee remains, the specific rules and timing can vary significantly based on whether you're flying Economy, Premium Economy, Business, or First Class.
Economy Cabin Seating
As previously discussed, Economy class offers the most variation. You can encounter Economy Basic, Economy Standard, and Economy Flex fares. For Basic, selection usually means paying a fee or getting an auto-assigned seat. Standard allows free selection of a standard seat, with fees for premium options. Flex offers free selection of any standard seat from booking. The 'economy cabin in flight' is thus a spectrum of choice, from highly restricted to quite permissive, depending on the ticket purchased. Within the economy cabin, you might also find specific zones, such as the front section offering slightly more legroom or standard seats, or the rear section which can sometimes be quieter.
Premium Economy Class
Premium Economy offers a distinct cabin class with seats that are wider, offer more legroom, and have greater recline than standard Economy. Passengers in Premium Economy generally enjoy complimentary selection of any available seat within this cabin from the time of booking. The selection process is similar to higher cabins, managed via 'Manage My Booking', with access to a seat map showing all available options. This class aims to provide a comfortable middle ground between Economy and Business, and seat choice is a part of that enhanced offering.
The specific layout of Premium Economy cabins can differ depending on the aircraft. For example, on Qantas's A380 aircraft, the Premium Economy cabin is located on the upper deck, offering a quieter and more exclusive environment. The seats themselves are often in a 2-3-2 configuration, providing good access to the aisle for most passengers.
Business Class and First Class
When you book a ticket in Business Class or First Class, seat selection is typically a complimentary privilege that can be exercised from the moment your booking is confirmed. These cabins are designed with passenger comfort, privacy, and service in mind. Business Class seats are often lie-flat or angled-flat beds, providing an excellent environment for sleeping or working on long-haul flights. First Class offers private suites or extremely spacious seating arrangements, providing the utmost in luxury travel.
The 'executive class' (often synonymous with Business Class) and First Class cabins on Qantas flights are equipped with sophisticated seating that allows for extensive adjustment. For these classes, Qantas usually offers a wide array of seat choices, from window seats to aisle seats, and specific locations within the cabin that might be preferred for proximity to amenities or a quieter spot. The aim is to allow passengers to customize their onboard experience from the earliest stages.
Economy fares determine the extent of seat selection rights.
Premium Economy passengers get complimentary standard seat selection.
Business and First Class passengers enjoy free seat selection from booking.
If you are flying on a Qantas flight and have booked Business or First Class, familiarize yourself with the aircraft type through the Qantas website to understand the specific seat configuration and choose the best available option for your needs.
The availability of specific seat types like 'what is class y in flight' (often standard economy), 'what is class j in flight' (often business class), or even specific sub-classes within these can be viewed on the Qantas seat map when making your selection. While the Qantas website may not always use these specific notations in the user interface, the underlying fare structure dictates the privileges. Generally, higher fare classes provide more options and flexibility, aligning with the premium experience offered.
Seat Selection and Flight Disruptions
Flight disruptions, whether due to schedule changes, aircraft swaps, or operational issues, can impact your pre-selected seat. Qantas, like all airlines, reserves the right to change assigned seats due to operational requirements. Understanding how these situations are handled is key to managing expectations and resolving any issues that may arise.
When Your Seat is Changed by Qantas
If Qantas changes your assigned seat, it is typically due to an aircraft substitution (where the new aircraft has a different seat configuration) or a change in flight schedule. In such cases, Qantas will attempt to assign you a seat that is comparable to your original selection. If you had paid for a premium seat (e.g., extra legroom) and are moved to a standard seat, or if the new seat is less desirable, you are generally entitled to a refund of any seat selection fee paid. This refund is usually processed automatically, but it's wise to follow up if it doesn't appear.
The airline's priority is to re-seat all passengers. If your original seat was a paid upgrade and you are moved to a less desirable seat, or a standard seat, you should be eligible for a refund of the difference or the full amount paid for the seat selection. It's important to note down the details of your original selection and the new assignment. This documentation will be crucial if you need to request a refund.
Aircraft Swaps and Seat Reconfiguration
Aircraft swaps are a common cause of seat reassignments. For example, if a larger aircraft scheduled for a route is replaced by a smaller one, or vice versa, the seat map will change. This can result in passengers being moved to different rows or even different sections of the aircraft. If you had selected a specific seat in Business Class, and the replacement aircraft has a different Business Class configuration, your exact seat might not exist, or its position might change relative to other cabin features.
Qantas's customer service team handles these reassignments. While they strive to maintain passenger preferences, the primary goal is to accommodate all passengers safely and efficiently. If your new seat is a downgrade in terms of cabin class or significantly less desirable than your original paid selection, contact Qantas customer relations to discuss compensation or a refund for the paid seat fee.
Keep records of your original seat selection.
Seek refunds for paid seats when reassigned to a lesser option.
Proactive Management During Disruptions
If you are notified of a significant schedule change or potential aircraft swap, it's prudent to check your seat selection immediately. Log in to 'Manage My Booking' and see if your seat has been affected. If it has, and you are unhappy with the proposed new arrangement, contact Qantas customer service as soon as possible. Airlines often have limited availability for re-selecting seats after a disruption, so prompt action is recommended.
For passengers who have paid for premium seats, it is essential to ensure that the refund process for the fee is initiated if they are moved to a standard seat. Sometimes, the system may not automatically detect that a paid seat has been downgraded. Therefore, a follow-up may be necessary. This proactive approach ensures that you receive the compensation or refund you are entitled to.
Monitor your booking for any changes after notification of a disruption.
Contact Qantas promptly if your seat selection is compromised.
If you are moved to a different seat and paid for it, and the new seat is not comparable, gather proof of payment and the new assignment to support your refund claim with customer service.
In summary, while Qantas aims to honor seat selections, disruptions can occur. Being informed about your rights, keeping records, and communicating proactively with customer service are your best strategies for managing seat changes during flight disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Qantas Seat Selection
Here are answers to common questions about selecting seats on Qantas flights.
Q: Can I select my seat for free on any Qantas flight?
A: No, free standard seat selection is generally included with Economy Flex and all Premium Economy, Business, and First Class fares. Economy Standard allows free standard seat selection 24 hours prior, while Economy Basic fares typically require a fee for any seat selection.
Q: When does online check-in open for Qantas flights?
A: Online check-in for Qantas flights opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time and closes 90 minutes before departure for international flights, and 30-45 minutes before for domestic and regional flights.
Q: What happens if I don't select a seat before check-in?
A: If you do not select a seat, one will be automatically assigned to you free of charge during the check-in process. This assignment is based on availability at that time.
Q: Can I change my seat after I've already selected it?
A: Yes, you can usually change your seat selection via 'Manage My Booking' or the Qantas app, provided your fare rules permit it and the new seat is available. Fees may apply if changing to a higher-priced seat, or if your original fare type no longer allows free changes.
Q: What if my flight is operated by a partner airline?
A: For codeshare flights operated by partner airlines, you generally need to manage seat selection directly with that operating airline. Check their website for specific rules and procedures.
Q: Can I select seats for my whole group when booking?
A: If your fare type allows free standard seat selection from booking, yes, you can select seats for your entire group simultaneously. Otherwise, you may need to pay for each person's seat or wait until check-in, where group seating is not guaranteed.
Q: I paid for a premium seat, but Qantas changed my flight. What now?
A: If Qantas changes your flight or aircraft, and your paid seat is no longer available or comparable, you are typically entitled to a refund of the seat selection fee. Contact Qantas customer service to process this.