Simple tip for getting an empty seat on Turkish Airlines

This tip is pretty straightforward—just ask at the counter. Here’s what happened:

During a layover in Istanbul, I approached the airline desk to check on my seat. I was hoping to grab an empty row. When I asked if the seat next to me would stay empty, the agent said they could block it for me. At first, I thought it was a one-time thing, but I had the same luck on my return trip when I asked if they could block the empty seat, and they agreed.

Of course, this only works if the flight isn’t full, but I thought it was worth sharing.

I tried this with other airlines afterward and generally got confused looks. Has anyone else tried this with Turkish Airlines?

EDIT: I fixed ‘lock’ to ‘block’ everywhere, except the title.

I’ve had success with this too on Turkish.

Alexander said:
I’ve had success with this too on Turkish.

[insert Jason Statham GIF from Snatch here]

Lufthansa has done this for me as a Star Gold member.

Clove said:
Lufthansa has done this for me as a Star Gold member.

I’m also Star Gold and they’ve never done that for me :man_facepalming:.

Turkish Airlines seems to really prioritize customer service. I haven’t tried this myself, but it’s great to know it’s possible when flights are not full.

Back then, asking nicely would work with nearly every airline.

These days, it’s more hit or miss. Usually, it doesn’t work with less friendly airlines unless you really have a good reason or have a higher status.

@Ellis
I used to block seats without anyone asking—especially for families with young kids or bigger folks. It was often for the convenience of other passengers,

If a flight was packed or the person at the counter seemed unhappy, then I’d pass on blocking seats.

But remember, in the past, passengers couldn’t pay for specific seats—the airport staff had full control over seat assignments.

When I flew Turkish two years ago, I could purchase the empty seat next to me for $40. But when I booked my summer flight last week, it was nearly $600! I will definitely try this approach!

That’s incredible! I’ve heard a lot of positive things about Turkish Airlines but didn’t know about this blocking option—I’ll definitely give it a shot!

Did you slide them some cash? :smile:

Pax said:
Did you slide them some cash? :smile:

Lol

I’m surprised an agent was honest and followed through. Good for you!

It’s really ‘block’ not ‘lock.’ Glad it worked out for you, but don’t count on it happening every time.

Emory said:
It’s really ‘block’ not ‘lock.’ Glad it worked out for you, but don’t count on it happening every time.

You’re right, thanks! I can’t change the title though :man_facepalming:.