Originally Posted by
YohYohY
Flew to Jakarta yesterday (from Dubai) - no recognition on the flight at all - never mind, no big deal.
NB. When I checked in I asked (as I always do) if there was any exit seats available, I was told they had all been taken. Got to the First Class lounge - asked again when presenting my boarding pass, was told again that none were available as they were all taken, so asked if a note could be put against my name should a seat become available, the lady duly obliged and typed into her computer (what she typed of course I have no idea).
I was sat in the front cabin for the flight - walked back during the flight to stretch my legs - in the first row of exit seats (6 seats) 4 were occupied by children, one maybe 6 or 7 years old. I have no idea if they were in the seats during take off or landing.
I walked further back and saw that both the middle seats on the 2nd exit row were empty - the passengers in window and aisle seats were using the middle tray as a resting place for drinks (as I do.)
I would have hoped, that having asked twice and a note being placed and that I'm a Platinum member, that I might have been asked if I'd like a middle seat on the exit row.
As far as the children re concerned, I doubt this was approved by the crew. There is a reason why you can't book these seats beforehand... you have to be capable of helping if need be.
I have had a similar experience and make a habit of asking the purser when I board to let me know if there are any seats. You shouldn't have to do this, but it sometimes helps as they usually try their best to help. I have seen cases where people move from the emergency row seats once they sit down and realise how close they are to the lavatories