There will be more generous family seat blocks at less desirable flight times is my guess. We shall see, it will be interesting to watch as this is implemented.
Delta already blocks at least the back two rows (maybe more on larger planes). I think the idea of having a "family section" that can only be assigned if you have children <12 is a great idea!
I don’t have kids.
I think it is ridiculous to force people to pay a fee to pick a seat. Period.
Parents have to deal with so much crap already to travel, I’m fine if they’re allowed to sit next to their kid without paying.
The only people who get their seats for FREE are those who use:
* ULCC (who charge for everything) and the seats are assigned somewhat randomly
* "Basic Economy" and the seats are assigned randomly.
* SW fliers.
Doesn't seem too difficult for a parent to NOT do one of those three if it's that important to them. And yes, I've travelled with young kids, including bringing a car seat onto the plane and setting it up/taking it down, and going through a connecction.
Let's see how this one goes over! How about charging people a bag fee who bring a carry-on (meaning going into the overhead compartment) on to the plane? This always holds up boarding and deplaning upon arrival, and then the same people who held everyone up are the ones who zip right out of the airport! People who check bags and don't use the overhead bins don't slow anyone down, yet they have to wait for their luggage. Basically, a fee to use the overhead bins for luggage. And to be honest, this is the first time I've ever thought about it. But I do agree that if you need to sit next to your children, don't book basic economy. Pay for assigned seats or do early bird check in. I'm not moving if I've paid extra for the seat I want and then am expected to move to a middle seat in the back of the plane.
There are already airlines that DO charge for carry on bags. Spirit is one of them. I will ALWAYS take a suitcase with me because I want clothes with me in case the airlines lose the checked bags. Of course, I have no problem lifting the bag myself up into the bins.
I wish these airlines that leave seating up to chance would stop that practice and make you select a seat when booking. I need to sit with my husband to temper my anxiety and "protect" me from the isle seat that makes the anxiety worse. If we can't book 2 seats together, we don't select that flight. I guess I don't understand why someone with kids isn't expected to do the same.
OR, people who want an assigned seat can select an airline that gives them that option.
I will say, the only time another passenger should get bumped from their seat to make way for an adult/child combo should be if that adult/child combo has missed their connection. AND I feel the "bumped" person should get some kind of credit. Say $25 (airline credit, not cash) in addition to whatever extra they paid for their seat (if they paid anything)?
