We are using FF points from Delta for our trip and they apparently partner with Continental which is what we will be flying on. We were able to select our seats going over but not on the return flight. Has anyone had this experience? My husband finally called because there was no way we could do anything online and he was told there are a small number of seats that are not assigned but seem to be reserved for passengers with a disability or special needs. The agent said we may be able to get one of these seats but we will have to wait until just before leaving Paris to learn if any are available. We bought the tickets in January so this was not a last minute decision. This agent then preceded to put us in different sections of the 777 in center seats--we looked at the seating arrangements online just after the phone call. We leave next week.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9100 posts
This has happened to me a few times. Airlines intentionally don't assign some seats ahead of time so that they can accommodate families, frequent fliers, and those with special needs. On the other hand, even if your were able get the exact seat you wanted back in January, there is no guarantee you would still have those exact seats on the day of your flight. The airlines have the right move passengers around as they see fit. There's not much you can do about it-you have to roll with the punches sometimes.
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
If you can't improve your seats before the day of the return flight, try to arrive a little earlier than usual for check-in and ask about seats together. If that doesn't work, maybe a single will be seated beside one of you. Ask if they'd be willing to switch so you can sit together. Often they will. You could even offer to buy them a drink or pay for their headphones as a way of saying thanks.
Posted by
Portland, OR, USA
805 posts
Don't worry about a thing. This is common. Airlines don't book about 10-20 seats at least on most aircraft for a number of reasons (exit row, premum seating, etc.). Check in at the airport and they should be able to move you.
Posted by
OP
Atlanta, Ga, USA
2023 posts
Thnaks for your relies! At least we have assigned seats for the trip over.
Posted by
Anaheim, CA, USA
1455 posts
Susan, I'm having the same problem on B.A. and they advised me to check online 24 hours prior. You may be able to assign your seats online that way.
Posted by
Wilmington, DE, USA
712 posts
I have also had this happen a few times. They told me the airlines assigns the first so many seats for tickets issued. I was told to arrive early if I want to get a good seat. I only had a problem one time when the plane was overbooked. They offered me a seat on the next flight out. Since the plane was overbooked, they asked if anyone was willing to give up their seats for compensation.... and I did get on my flight.