Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
Some airlines already do that. For example, DL blocks the last row or so for gate assignment for exactly this purpose. Perhaps more seats need to be blocked off this way.
IME the problem is that many families don't want to sit together *in the back* (horrors!) of the plane. Sometimes one parent has FF status to get a special (preferred/Y+/C+/bulkhead or exit row) seat and then wants the rest of the nonelite family to sit next to him/here for free.
Folks don't just want seats together--or better yet, the seating that's really required, namely one adult near a small child versus the whole clan together in exactly the seats they want--they want GOOD SEATS TOGETHER FOR FREE.
I disagree. I think everyone wants the best seats on the aircraft, but if a family who is separated for whatever reason is offered the last row together, they will usually happily take it to avoid having to negotiate on board. It needs to be offered before the family boards, and not onboard where human nature kicks in and everyone tries to improve his lot.
I also think the last row is an ideal place for a family with a toddler, and it's the row I select with my three year old if no MCE or E+ seats are available. Easy access to the lav is a luxury with a three year old, and most families with small children are checking bags rather than trying to manage them on board, so being first off the aircraft is of little use.