Want more legroom on your next flight? Learn the exact exit row strategy frequent flyers use — including the 24-hour check-in trick that gets you premium seats for free.

Exit row seats offer up to six extra inches of legroom — the difference between arriving refreshed and arriving cramped. Knowing how to get the exit row seat on a flight consistently is one of the most valuable tricks in any traveller's toolkit.

The exit row strategy: step by step

1Skip the upfront upgrade. Airlines often charge for exit rows at booking. Don't pay — many seats release for free at the 24-hour mark.2Set a 24-hour reminder. The moment online check-in opens, go straight to "Change Seat" in the airline app. Previously locked exit rows frequently drop into the free pool right at this window.3Ask at the gate. Gate agents can reassign seats up until boarding. A polite, direct ask works surprisingly often — especially if you mention you're comfortable with the safety responsibilities.4Know your rows. On Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s, rows 16–17 are the sweet spot. On widebody jets, target the over-wing exit rows.

Pro tip: download the airline app before your trip. Gate change alerts and seat map access are significantly faster in-app than on mobile web.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to sit in the exit row?

It depends on the airline and timing. Many carriers charge a fee at booking, but release exit row seats for free during online check-in (24 hours before departure) if they remain unclaimed.

Can anyone sit in the exit row?

Passengers must be at least 15 years old, physically able to operate the emergency exit, and willing to assist crew in an emergency. Airline staff will confirm this at check-in.

Which airline gives the most exit row legroom?

JetBlue's Even More Space rows and Delta Comfort+ exit seats consistently rank among the most generous, often offering 37–38 inches of pitch.

Ready to book your next flight with the best seat already locked in? Search flights and compare fares at mytravelagent.com — your personal travel agent, online 24/7.

Before You Head to Italy, Read This: You Might Have to Pay for Water Posted by MyTravelAgent.com

Here's a travel story that's been making the rounds lately — and it's one every traveler heading to Europe should know about. A woman staying at a five-star hotel in Italy's northern Badia region asked for something pretty simple at dinner: a

First Class Airfare

The Luxe Life: Why First Class Beats Coach Every TimeFlying can be exhausting, but the experience transforms completely when you upgrade from coach to first class. While coach gets you from A to B, first class turns the journey into a highlight of your trip. Here’s why seasoned travelers

When Is the Best Time to Buy Airline Tickets in 2026?

There are patterns that tend to save money on airfare, but there is no magic "buy on Tuesday at 2:00 AM" rule anymore. Airlines use aggressive real-time pricing now, and the old tricks have largely stopped working. Here is what actually matters in 2026. Domestic U.

Your ID must be a REAL ID now.

If you have been to an airport recently, you may have noticed new signs at the security checkpoint reminding travelers about the REAL ID requirement. As of May 7, 2025, the federal government began enforcing the REAL ID Act, which means that standard state-issued driver's licenses are

Read more

Before You Head to Italy, Read This: You Might Have to Pay for Water Posted by MyTravelAgent.com

First Class Airfare

When Is the Best Time to Buy Airline Tickets in 2026?

Your ID must be a REAL ID now.