Qantas has launched a new 'Neighbour Free' option that allows flyers to pay to block anyone from sitting in the seat beside them in economy, for a fee starting from AUD30 (R350).
“Availability is limited, so make sure you reserve your seat early,” Qantas warns. The offering is currently being trialled only on domestic Australian flights.
The option can only be purchased between 48 hours and one hour before the scheduled flight departure. If eligible, flyers may be emailed 48 hours before departure with an invitation to reserve the service.
Neighbour Free cannot, however, be guaranteed as seats may need to be changed for operational, safety or security reasons, even after boarding the aircraft. If Qantas cannot fulfil the reservation due to a disruption or cancellation, or provide a reasonable alternative, passengers will automatically be refunded the amount paid for the Neighbour Free portion.
Once the Neighbour Free request has been confirmed, customers cannot make further changes or cancel their reservation.
Neighbour Free refers to the seat space only and cannot be used for infant seating or to place items such as carry-on baggage, or musical instruments.
Additional Qantas Points and Status Credits will not be earned on Neighbour Free reservations.
The airline has also specified that only credit and debit cards will be accepted for payment – not travel credit nor the AUD50 (R590) vouchers it recently awarded customers.
If the flight is changed by Qantas, the Neighbour Free request may be transferred to the new flight, subject to availability.
