Airlines have specific last-minute seat swapping rules

Airlines have specific rules for passengers wanting to swap seats last minute. Most allow changes before boarding but restrict them once on the plane due to safety and weight distribution concerns. easyJet and Ryanair charge fees for seat selection and allow changes before check-in. After check-in, easyJet requires contacting customer service, while Ryanair allows changes at kiosks but may charge for upgrades. Jet2 encourages pre-booking seats but does not ban swapping. TUI permits changes only if not checked in, while British Airways allows changes up to check-in but may require seat swaps for operational reasons.