When you purchase a ticket through Finnair but your flight is actually operated by a different airline, the seat booking process seems more complicated. However, it's still possible to select your seat for a comfortable journey, even if you’re flying with an airline other than Finnair.

Here's a step-by-step guide to Finnair Seat Selection to help you navigate the seat selection process when flying on a codeshare flight or a flight operated by a partner airline.

1. Understand Codeshare and Partner Airline Flights

Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand codeshare and partner flights. Finnair often partners with other airlines to expand its network, offering more flight options even though the other airline may not directly operate the flight. This is called a codeshare agreement.

If you’ve purchased a ticket from Finnair but the flight is operated by one of its partner airlines (e.g., British Airways, Iberia, or American Airlines), you will still be able to manage your booking with the operating airline’s system.

2. Check Your Ticket for Operating Airline Information

After booking your flight through Finnair, check your ticket for the operating airline details. The flight number will typically indicate which airline is actually operating the flight. It is also important to check if the operating airline has any specific instructions for seat selection, as each airline may have different policies.

3. Seat Selection via the Finnair Website or App (If Available)

In some cases, Finnair allows passengers to manage bookings for flights operated by other airlines directly through its website or mobile app. Here’s how you can attempt seat selection:

• Log in to your Finnair account: Go to Finnair’s official website and log into your account.

• Go to My Bookings: Once logged in, navigate to “My Bookings” where you can view the flight details.

• Manage your booking: If the option is available, you can select your seat directly through Finnair’s platform, even for partner-operated flights. This will depend on the codeshare agreement and the airline’s integration with Finnair’s booking system.

4. Book Your Seat on the Operating Airline’s Website

If seat selection is not available through Finnair, the next step is to visit the airline's website. Here’s what you need to do:

• Find the operating airline’s website: Look up the airline operating your flight (e.g., British Airways, American Airlines) and go to their seat selection page.

• Enter your booking reference: You will need your booking reference or ticket number, which is usually provided in your confirmation email from Finnair.

• Select your seat: Once logged in, you should be able to choose your preferred seat from the available options. Keep in mind that some airlines may charge extra for certain seat selections, such as extra legroom or preferred seats.

5. Contact the Operating Airline’s Customer Service

If you're having trouble selecting a seat online or prefer direct assistance, you can always contact the operating airline’s customer service team.

Provide them with your booking reference and ask them to assist you in selecting a seat for your flight. Most airlines will be able to help, even if you booked through a different carrier.

6. Consider Seat Selection at Check-In

If seat selection isn’t available in advance or you prefer not to choose a seat until closer to your flight, you can always wait until check-in. Seat selection is often available during the online check-in process, which typically opens 24 to 48 hours before the flight departure.

By this time, many seats may have been assigned, but there are still chances to select from the remaining available seats.

7. Check for Extra Fees or Restrictions

Some airlines may charge extra fees for seat selection, especially for premium seats like extra legroom or window seats. Be sure to check for any fees that might apply when selecting a seat.

Additionally, keep in mind that some flights may have limited seat selection options due to the type of aircraft or seating configuration used by the operating airline.

Conclusion

Booking a seat when you buy your ticket from Finnair but the flight is operated by another airline is definitely possible, though the process may vary slightly depending on the airline.

The best approach is to check your ticket for the operating airline and then either select your seat via the Finnair website (if available), visit the operating airline’s website, or contact their customer service for assistance.

If none of these options work, you can still secure your seat during online check-in or at the airport.

By following these steps, you can ensure a more comfortable journey with your preferred seat, regardless of which airline operates the flight.