There is a long-running existing thread which will provide all the permutations of this problem and resolutions.
Isn't there an option for all-or-nothing when you checkin. If so you can simply decline the upgrade waitlist and you'll all keep your seats. In the alternative you can split the GS into a new record and she can take her shot at the PP upgrade while you and child stay joined at the hip.
What is the worst case scenario? All 3 get upgraded to different Polaris seats? In that case I expect somebody will agree to switch with one of you, though it is not guaranteed. I suppose 2 of 3 could get upgraded in which case one parent could sit in back and one up front with the child (again maybe somebody will switch).
If you need all 3 to be together then keep your current seats and decline the upgrade. Don't foist your problems on others to fix, particularly when you can prevent them (as opposed to IRROPS).
Originally Posted by
erik123
Upgrade chances are hard to gauge. If you do upgrade the FAs will likely do nothing but chances of someone willing to switch are pretty good - especially if starting outside of the US. Nobody wants to sit next to a 3 yr old.
I love kids and I would be fine next to a 3yr esp. if they have an ipad or phone (which most do now). I would be loathe to give up my E+ or C aisle because somebody's upgrade cleared and that gives them license to inconvenience me.
Originally Posted by
benewr
Just explain your situation at check in and I’m sure the Paris team will work their magic to make it work, they are very good and helpful in this kind of situation.
I have never found any GAs to be the least bit helpful in re-assigning seats on a full flight. However if there are open seats they will certainly do their best. I would expect Dec. 31 to be packed + standbys.
Originally Posted by
mduell
As long as you ask to swap for a less desirable seat, I'd anticipate someone to swap with you.
Bingo.
I should end by saying that I was once asked by a couple with a baby to switch to another biz class seat. My initial reaction was "f- no" because they planted themselves in my seat before even asking. However I relented after I cooled off and discovered that the new seat was like-for-like aisle seat in biz class.