Originally Posted by longtime lurker
I guess YMMV. Perhaps the difference is leaving from North America instead of within Europe, or that I was traveling with a NW Gold elite companion (although neither should matter, if the computers are programmed correctly).
You're right... YMMV. My flights are generally of European origin to destinations within Europe, and generally purchased on nwa.com. Also usually two NW plats travelling together. I also usually check in very early, I often wonder if the seats are assigned ahead of time (a day or two ahead of flight) or when you check in online.