Originally Posted by g_leyser
What if the mother came to the airport and checked-in normally, and got a boarding pass? Then once you get to the gate, at the last minute explain that the mother cannot make it. This could increase the likelihood of having the empty seat significantly. That's what I would do - if mom is willing to "play along".
It would also lead to a delay at the gate and perhaps a security problem.Also the gate agents get pretty worked up on something like this.