Makes a lot of sense me - at the gate during a time critical process of the flight there isn't necessarily going to be time to go through the process with people, the subsequent fallout associated with passengers being parted from their instrument at that late stage could cause a delay, the possibility of those playing the dumb card and pleading ignorance. It's not going to necessarily end well. Also with theoretical seating, you'll be aware that a blocked seat next to a gold isn't guaranteed and shouldn't be expected.

Perhaps because I don't have this headache to worry about I might be missing the obvious but I'm failing to understand why accepting the revised policy is so difficult for musicians to comprehend? If the purchase of a comfort seat on addition is now required surely It's just a case if incorporating that into your expenses or jumping ship to an alternative carrier who have a more relaxed policy if the additional expense is not an option. Apparently there are loads who allow it. I'm not convinced.