Emirates has introduced the option for passengers to purchase up to three empty adjoining seats on their flight.

Empty seats will only be offered for purchase at the airport check-in counter before departure.

Costs range from AED200 to AED600 ($55-$165) per empty seat, plus applicable taxes depending on flight sector.

The seats will be offered to all economy class customers holding a confirmed booking.

Customers will not be able to pre-book empty seats, as these are subject to availability.

The Dubai-based airline said the policy comes as a result of customer feedback and addresses the needs of a range of customers “seeking extra privacy and space while still flying in economy class”.

This includes couples who wish to have the entire row to themselves; parents travelling with in-lap infants; or those who want the “added assurance of more space while travelling during pandemic times”.