How Qantas Lets You Pay For An Empty Seat Beside You

Qantas has lifted the lid on its new “Neighbour Free” seating product for Economy class passengers. Running as a trial, the service allows customers to reserve an empty seat next to them for extra comfort onboard. That’s of course subject to availability on each flight, based on how many seats remain empty in the days leading up to departure.

As anyone who’s scored a spare seat beside them will tell you, Neighbour Free Seating significantly increases your comfort when travelling in Economy. As someone who’s not particularly tall, I always appreciate the space to the side more than I do additional legroom.

It’s important to note that in the fine print, Qantas says those who purchase a Neighbour Free Seat do not receive ownership of the seat beside them. Should a customer wish to purchase an additional seat for their own use, for example, plus-size travellers, they may do so by purchasing an additional fare through the Qantas Call Centre.

Which Flights Have Neighbour Free Seating?

During the six-week trial period, Qantas will offer Neighbour Free Seating on twelve routes, before gradually expanding the product across their domestic network. For now, you can purchase a Neighbour Free Seat on the following flights:

• Adelaide to Brisbane
• Adelaide to Sydney
• Brisbane to Adelaide
• Brisbane to Perth
• Darwin to Melbourne
• Darwin to Sydney
• Gold Coast to Sydney
• Melbourne to Darwin
• Perth to Brisbane
• Sydney to Adelaide
• Sydney to Darwin
• Sydney to Gold Coast

How To Book A Qantas Neighbour Free Seat

Similar to Bid Now Upgrades, Qantas Neighbour Free Seating invites customers to purchase the product via email, subject to availability and eligibility criteria. Invitations are sent 48 hours prior to your flight, with customers able to purchase their Neighbour Free Seat up to 1 hour before takeoff.

Once you receive an email invitation, follow the link to select your standard seat (where you want to sit) and then an available adjacent seat which will be highlighted. Following payment, Qantas will send a confirmation email with the details of your purchase.

Qantas Offer Neighbour Free Seat FAQs

What is Neighbour Free Seating?

When invited, Qantas Economy class passengers can reserve a Neighbour Free Seat to have the seat next to them unoccupied during their flight. Neighbour Free Seating offers the added comfort of sitting without another passenger directly next to them.

Can I purchase Neighbour Free Seating on any flight?

No, Neighbour Free Seating is available on selected routes by email invitation only.

Is my Neighbour Free Seat guaranteed?

No, Neighbour Free Seating is never guaranteed as seats may need to be changed for operational reasons. If you have purchased a Neighbour Free Seat which was not received, Qantas will offer a refund for the amount paid.

Can I earn Qantas Points with a Neighbour Free Seat purchase?

No, Neighbour Free Seating does not earn Qantas Points.

Can I purchase Neighbour Free Seating at the airport or over the phone?

No, Neighbour Free Seating can only be purchased via email invitation.

If my flight is cancelled, will I receive a Neighbour Free Seat on my new flight?

No, Neighbour Free Seating is not transferable.

How much does a Neighbour Free Seat cost?

Neighbour Free Seating cost varies by route and is subject to change.