As a flight attendant, I do see it happen on occasion, not too often though. Most people do move to their assigned seats without complaint. Of course, there are a few who try to argue their way. Many of you brought up good points about "is it stealing?", I would have to say it is. I don't think, either before or after 9/11, that this person would neccessarily be a threat. Like I said, most people just get up and move to their assigned seats. No, sitting there may not be against the law. But refusing to comply with crew member instructions is. If it were to escalate authorities would be involved when the aircraft reached the gate. Obviously, it's in everyone's best interest to not do that, most people would just be removed for not complying, provided the plane as not taken off. The story this guy claims seems hardly believable (LAX-SYD) We do notice the count and I cannot think of any of my co-workers who would allow it. Those who do... shame on them. Their the reason people think they can and should get away with it.