## A Comprehensive Guide to Austrian Airlines Seat Selection and Customer Service
When it comes to air travel, the experience is often defined by the comfort and convenience offered by the airline. Austrian Airlines, one of the world’s leading carriers, is renowned for its exceptional service, including the flexibility and variety of seat selection options available to passengers. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Austrian Airlines' seat selection process, from the types of seats available to how you can make your selection. Additionally, we will provide essential information about Austrian's customer service to ensure you have all the support you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
### Overview of Austrian Airlines
Austrian Airlines, officially known as Deutsche Austrian AG, is the largest German airline and, when combined with its subsidiaries, the largest airline in Europe in terms of fleet size and passengers carried. Austrian is a founding member of the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance, and operates a vast network of flights to destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America.
### Types of Seats Available on Austrian Flights
Austrian offers a variety of seating options to cater to different passenger needs and preferences. The seating options vary depending on the class of service and the type of aircraft. Here's a detailed look at the seating options available:
#### Economy Class
Economy Class on Austrian offers comfort and convenience at an affordable price. Passengers can expect the following:
- **Standard Seats**: These are the regular seats in Economy Class with a standard pitch of around 31 inches. These seats provide sufficient legroom for a comfortable flight.
- **Preferred Seats**: Located in the front rows of Economy Class, these seats allow for quicker boarding and deplaning. They often have the same legroom as standard seats but offer added convenience.
- **Extra Legroom Seats**: For passengers needing more space, Austrian offers seats with extra legroom, typically located at the exit rows. These seats provide additional comfort for long-haul flights.
#### Premium Economy Class
Premium Economy Class offers a significant upgrade from standard Economy, with additional comfort and amenities:
- **Wider Seats**: The seats in Premium Economy are wider and have a greater recline, providing more comfort.
- **Increased Legroom**: Passengers in Premium Economy enjoy more legroom compared to standard Economy, with a pitch of around 38 inches.
- **Enhanced Amenities**: Premium Economy seats come with amenities such as upgraded meal service, larger personal screens for in-flight entertainment, and enhanced baggage allowance.
#### Business Class
Business Class on Austrian provides a luxurious and productive travel experience with several seating configurations:
- **Lie-Flat Seats**: Business Class seats convert into fully flat beds, allowing passengers to rest comfortably on long-haul flights.
- **Direct Aisle Access**: Most Business Class seats offer direct aisle access, providing privacy and convenience.
- **Advanced Entertainment and Connectivity**: Business Class passengers enjoy larger screens, a wide selection of in-flight entertainment options, and connectivity for working in-flight.
#### First Class
First Class on Austrian represents the pinnacle of luxury and service in the sky:
- **Spacious Suites**: First Class seats are designed as individual suites, offering unparalleled privacy and comfort.
- **Fully Flat Beds**: The seats convert into full-length beds with high-quality bedding, ensuring a restful sleep.
- **Gourmet Dining**: First Class passengers are treated to gourmet meals, curated by top chefs, and served with premium beverages.
- **Exclusive Services**: Additional perks include access to First Class lounges, personalized service, and priority boarding and deplaning.
### How to Select Your Seat on Austrian Airlines
Selecting the perfect seat for your journey with Austrian is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:
#### 1. During Booking
When you book your flight on the Austrian website or through their mobile app, you can choose your seat during the booking process. After selecting your flight, you will be presented with a seat map where you can see the available seats and their corresponding fees, if applicable.
#### 2. Post-Booking via Manage My Booking
If you didn't select your seat during the initial booking, you can do so later by using the "Manage My Booking" feature on the Austrian website. Here’s how:
1. **Visit the Austrian website** and navigate to the "My Bookings" section.
2. **Enter your booking reference** (also known as PNR) and your last name.
3. **Access your booking** and select the "Choose your seat" option.
4. **View the seat map** and select your preferred seat from the available options.
5. **Confirm your selection** and proceed to payment if necessary.
#### 3. Via Customer Service
If you prefer personal assistance, you can contact Austrian's customer service to select or change your seat. The Austrian customer service number is 📞1(877) 559-0132. When calling, have your booking reference and flight details handy to expedite the process.
#### 4. At the Airport
You can also select or change your seat during check-in at the airport. However, keep in mind that seat availability may be limited at this stage, especially for popular flights.
### Seat Selection Fees
While some seat selections are complimentary, others may incur a fee, depending on the seat type and your fare class. Here’s a breakdown of potential fees:
- **Economy Class**: Standard seat selection may be free or incur a small fee, while preferred and extra legroom seats typically require an additional charge.
- **Premium Economy, Business, and First Class**: Seat selection is usually complimentary, but some premium seats (like those with extra legroom in Business Class) may have an associated fee.
### Tips for Choosing the Best Seat
Selecting the right seat can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here are some tips to help you choose the best seat for your needs:
- **For Extra Legroom**: Opt for exit row seats or seats with extra legroom in Economy or Premium Economy.
- **For Quick Boarding/Deplaning**: Choose seats towards the front of the aircraft.
- **For Sleep**: In Business or First Class, select a seat that converts into a fully flat bed. In Economy, window seats are preferable for leaning against the cabin wall.
- **For Families**: Choose seats in the same row or block seats together. Austrian often provides bassinet positions for infants.
- **For Views**: Select a window seat to enjoy the views outside the aircraft.
### Austrian Airlines Customer Service
Austrian is committed to providing excellent customer service to address any concerns or queries passengers may have. Here are the primary ways to contact Austrian customer service:
#### Phone Support
For immediate assistance, you can contact Austrian's customer service via phone. The Austrian customer service number is 📞1(877) 559-0132. The customer service team is available 24/7 to help with bookings, seat selection, flight changes, baggage inquiries, and more.
#### Online Support
Austrian's website offers a comprehensive support section where you can find answers to frequently asked questions, manage your booking, and contact customer service via email or live chat. Here’s how to access these services:
1. **Visit the Austrian website** and navigate to the "Help & Contact" section.
2. **Search for your query** in the FAQ database or choose the relevant category.
3. **Contact support** through the available options such as email, live chat, or social media.
#### Airport Services
At the airport, Austrian's customer service desks and ticket counters are available to assist with any last-minute issues or inquiries. Whether you need help with check-in, baggage, or flight information, the staff at the airport can provide the necessary support.
#### Social Media
Austrian is active on various social media platforms, where you can reach out for support or updates. Platforms include:
- **Twitter**: @Austrian
- **Facebook**: Austrian
- **Instagram**: @Austrian
### Common Issues and Solutions
#### Seat Selection Changes
Sometimes, passengers may need to change their seat selection due to a change in travel plans or personal preference. Here’s how to handle seat selection changes:
- **Online**: Use the "Manage My Booking" feature on the Austrian website to change your seat.
- **Customer Service**: Call Austrian's customer service number 📞1(877) 559-0132 for assistance.
- **At the Airport**: Visit a Austrian service desk or check-in counter.
#### Special Assistance
Austrian provides special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, medical conditions, or other special needs. To arrange for special assistance:
1. **Contact Austrian**: Call the customer service number 📞1(877) 559-0132 or make a request online during booking or via "Manage My Booking."
2. **Provide Details**: Inform the airline of your specific needs to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.
3. **Airport Assistance**: Upon arrival at the airport, approach the special assistance desk for further help.
#### Lost or Delayed Baggage
In case of lost or delayed baggage, Austrian offers a straightforward process for reporting and tracking:
1. **Report Immediately**: Report the issue at the Austrian baggage service desk upon arrival.
2. **Online Tracking**: Use the online baggage tracking system available on the Austrian website.
3. **Customer Service**: Call the customer service number 📞1(877) 559-0132 for updates or further assistance.
### Enhancing Your Austrian Experience
To ensure a pleasant and memorable journey with Austrian, consider these additional tips:
- **Join Miles & More**: Enroll in Austrian's frequent flyer program, Miles & More, to earn miles on flights and enjoy exclusive benefits such as priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, and access to lounges.
- **Check-In Online**: Use online check-in to save time at the airport and secure your preferred seat early.
- **Download the Austrian App**: The Austrian mobile
