Reviving this old thread. I booked an economy redemption and was not able to book seats in Cathay's site. It said only within 48 hrs before flight could I do so. I cancelled the booking within the 24 hrs as I was a little panicked at being in 2 middle seats. I wasn't aware you could call Cathay for seats. Is this a certainty? Not to doubt Guy Betsy, but wondering why the website doesn't say you can call.