Originally Posted by
Often1
I doubt that you are being "forced" to pay for F on the Y-only segment. If the first & last segments are Y-only at the time of booking, you are likely being sold a fare basis which contemplates Y-only.
Take a look at the fare basis line on your e-ticket receipt and you will likely see some form of Economy fare for the first & last.
I think OP means that if F isn't available on a flight he should at least get preferred seats for free (Row 1/2/exit).