Lufthansa, Austrian to Sell Advance Seat Selection in Amadeus

Lufthansa and its subsidiary, Austrian Airlines will adopt Amadeus Airline Ancillary Services, a comprehensive, multichannel solution that is compliant with industry standards, to distribute ancillary services through the travel agency channel and via their websites in the first half of 2014.

Under a new agreement, the carriers will enable Amadeus agents to pre-select seats in economy class for travelers flying on German and European routes. An additional fee will apply; the amount will depend on whether a standard or exit row seat is selected. Clients also will be able to purchase seats offering extra leg room both on continental and intercontinental routes. Passengers without advance seat reservations may choose their seats free of charge at check-in.

Both airlines use Electronic Miscellaneous Documents, the IATA standard solution for fulfilling bookings for ancillary services.

— Michele McDonald