Taking the Kids: Sitting together on planes
Unfortunately, that's not always the case. "It is our policy not to remove a customer from their seat to put people together," said a JetBlue spokesman, adding if a family has an issue, they should alert a gate agent or flight attendant who can help them identify someone willing to switch.
Southwest, which famously champions open boarding where people are assigned to the A, B or C group based on when they check in, allows families traveling with children six or under to board after the A group when there are more seats together. If families can't find seats together, a spokesman said, Southwest will make an announcement asking for volunteers to switch seats -- something I have not seen on any other carrier.
If budget isn't a big consideration, pay for preferred seats to guarantee you will be together. Consider paying for your baby's seat, as well. Even though children under two can fly free in your lap, the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board urges the use of safety seats for young children. They are far safer in turbulent skies. As one flight attendant put it, even coffee carts are strapped down during takeoff and landing. Why aren't babies? "Your arms aren't capable of holding your child securely, especially during unexpected turbulence," the FAA says.
Whether or not you are purchasing a seat for your baby or toddler, always book as early as you can and book your seats at the same time to have the most choice, the JetBlue spokesman added.
If you can, fly nonstop and if you must connect, fly early in the day. There are increasing snafus as the day wears on. And don't forget the offer of picking up a drink for the passenger who moves -- I've seen that work. Another mom says she always stashes a nice snack in her carry-on to present as a "thank you."
And let's face it, no one wants to sit next to an unaccompanied young child. "That's not good for anyone," one airline official acknowledged. So take a deep breath and keep your cool. Getting angry won't help, believe me.
But contacting your congressman might.
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(For more Taking the Kids, visit www.takingthekids.com and also follow "taking the kids" on www.twitter.com, where Eileen Ogintz welcomes your questions and comments.)
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