[QUOTE=FrancisA;17920618
I think that there are a few urban myths circulating on here.

Most passengers do not expect to select seats in advance and many just turn up at the airport and take whatever they are given.
[/QUOTE]

I know Americans are not the majority of BA flyers, but all American airlines allow you to select non-premium seats at the time of purchase. The best seats are held back for status pax or those willing to pay. So Americans are in for an unpleasant surprise when they cannot choose their seat on BA before 24h pre departure. Moreover, it sucks that it's 12-3am in US time zones when the intra-European flights open seat selection, at least the flight I usually take. I think what the OP proposes is fair.