The new charges will affect people who want to ensure ? at the time of booking ? that they sit together on a flight, or anyone with a preference for seats next to a window, in an emergency exit row or on the aisle.

BA currently makes no charge for passengers who want to reserve seats in the 24 hours prior to departure, but from October 7 those willing to pay will be able to secure their preferred spot when they make a booking.

The airline said the move would "give customers more control over their seating options."

For an economy class trip within Europe, passengers will pay an extra #10 per person to choose a seat.

The fee rises to #20 for long-haul economy or short flights in business class, and #60 in business class on long-haul trips.

A seat in an emergency exit row will cost #50 and can be booked between 10 and four days before take-off.

A BA spokesperson said: "Customers frequently request specific seats but in the past we've only been able to confirm them 24 hours in advance or on the day.

"We know people want to secure them in advance and have real control over their flying experience. This will allow them to do that."

The seat charge is the latest measure BA has taken since it logged a net loss of #375-million in its last financial year as the global financial crisis took its toll on air travel.

The airline said this week it would reduce subsidies on staff meals to save #2.7-million annually.