I don't think that asking puts anyone in an awkward position. You're asking [politely] because you're not certain, and on the off chance that the policy has changed or the answer might be yes, no harm in asking provided that you're willing to accept a negative answer as politely as you asked. It's the same as asking someone to change seats once you've boarded. Nothing wrong with asking as long as you remain polite and civil if the answer is no.