Can you help me interpret the symbols on the seat map as to understanding what seats are booked and what seats are available to stand by passengers on a buddy pass

Seat maps use visual cues to show which seats are already assigned, which are open for selection, and which may carry extra fees or premium status.

Interpreting Seat Map Symbols

Seat maps often display available seats in a neutral color, while booked seats appear shaded or crossed out. Premium or extra‑legroom seats are frequently marked with a star or another special icon, indicating they may cost more or be reserved for certain members. Some airlines also use symbols like “+” or “*” to denote seats that require a fee or are part of a preferred cabin. When a seat is truly open, you can usually click on it to select it without encountering an error message. Your Mileage May Vary +2

Buddy Pass Standby and Seat Availability

A buddy pass lets a friend or family member travel on a standby basis, meaning they must wait for a seat to become free after confirmed passengers check in. The reservation agent can check the flight’s passenger load and advise which seats are likely to open up, often pointing you to rows that are less‑travelled or to early‑morning/late‑evening flights. Since standby passengers are “first‑come, first‑served,” you should arrive early and monitor the seat map for any seats that change from booked to available. Seats that become available for standby will usually shift from a shaded or occupied icon to the neutral “available” color, signaling that a buddy pass holder can now claim them. Point Me to the Plane +1

By watching for these visual changes on the seat map and understanding the meaning of each symbol, you can better gauge which seats are already taken and which might open up for a buddy‑pass standby traveler.