Swapping seats on a flight in India: what cabin crew allow

Want the window your neighbour doesn't care about, or to sit next to your partner? Seat swaps on flights are common — but they work a little differently from trains.

The crew decides

Cabin crew are responsible for where everyone sits. Always ask before you move, even if the other passenger has agreed. The crew may say no for good reasons:

• Exit rows can only be used by eligible adults who can help in an emergency — not children or passengers travelling with an infant.
• Infants can only sit in rows with an extra oxygen mask.
• Weight and balance matters on smaller aircraft, so crew may keep passengers in the seats assigned at check-in.
• Paid seats. Airlines sell extra-legroom and front-row seats, and may not let you move into one you didn't pay for.

Families and children

India's aviation regulator (DGCA) requires airlines to seat children up to 12 years with at least one parent or guardian travelling on the same booking. If your family has been split, ask the airline at check-in first — then use a swap for anything that's still apart.

How EzySeat helps

1. Add your airline, flight number, date and seat on EzySeat. Flight seats are self-declared, so check your boarding pass first.
2. We match you with passengers on the same flight whose seat you want — and who want yours.
3. When both of you accept, plan it in private chat and ask the crew once you've boarded.

If the crew say no, both of you keep your original seats. Nothing about your ticket changes.