Originally Posted by Monsieur Linguist
In fairness to BD, they are following the rules in this matter. Really, the trick is to find a good TA who'll sort out the seat request, FF number etc etc.
When the ticket is purchased, it is a contract between that passenger and TA, and then in turn between the TA and airline so, if the law is followed to the letter, the airline should not disclose any information about YOUR reservation to YOU!
Um, I'm no lawyer, but I highly doubt this. They are the provider of transportation and the contract is done with them (hence the rules on the IATA ticket).
I think they are just being lazy arses. There should always be a supervisor available -- or at least they should offer that a supervisor will call back. Anything less is unacceptable for a so-called world airline.