Originally Posted by
cynicAAl
what you've described is not AA's policy as linked upthread. The policy would require the POS to be reseated to a location where there are 2 adjacent seats, or buy an F seat, or be given the opportunity to purchase 2 seats on a later flight. Nothing in there about reseating the non-POS. Doesn't mean the FA or GA won't try, but if you know the policy (which this thread has done a great job of demonstrating), you simply insist that they enforce their own policy. Again, don't allow them to take the path of least resistance and make them do their job, even if it's uncomfortable for them. AA's policy is clear that the POS should proactively plan for their needs by puchasing 2 adjacent seats. If they fail to do that, there are certain consequences, none of which include inconveniencing the non-POS.
Yes I agree with you. However, in reality the GA or FA are going to want you to move and its going to be something like 32E on an MD80. Yes, one could pull out the rules and say reseat the POS. But very likely there would not be two open seats and therefore the POS would be told he that he/she could not fly and would need to deplane. Needless to say, you are likely looking at quite a bit of drama and if the POS reacts badly well then it really gets ugly. Most people really would rather try to avoid "such a scene" at all costs.
Like I said, just a bunch of bad options.