British Airways passengers may now use Avios to select in-flight seats. Until earlier this month, passengers who did not have access to free seat selection could pay to select their seats. The new option allows Avios to cover the seat cost either partially or fully.

British Airways previously offered free seat selection to Gold and Silver British Airways Executive Club members from the time of booking and free seat selection for Bronze members a week in advance of departure. The new offer is intended to benefit Blue members, who pay for seat selection until check-in.

“We already offer the ability to collect and spend Avios on a wide range of flights, holidays, trips and experiences but [this] exciting development gives members of the British Airways Executive Club another way they can choose to spend their Avios,” said James Hillier, British Airways Executive Club. “It will be of particular benefit to those in the Blue tier, and we hope this further demonstrates to these members the benefit of being part of, and collecting Avios through, the Executive Club.”

The change is part of several planned for the next five years, intended to enhance passenger experience. Earlier this year, the airline announced new food offerings, including full second meals on longer flights.