Originally Posted by
aacar
Unfortunately had carry-ons only. GA took me for some idiot and said that the PE seats are "basically the same as first class." Yeah, right
True, although as Kacee mentioned, right after that it states that boarding ends 15 minutes prior and implies that seats will only be given away if not on board at that point.
Perhaps it's implied, but technically, they are not exclusive. While unsaid, they could potentially give your seat away if a) you do not meet the gate arrival time, or b) you don't meet the boarding time. It's not really clear if gate arrival times are only recommended or required. Generally if it's only a recommendation, they will state that.