To be perfectly clear, moderator hat completely doffed (off.)
In addition to
tom911's quite reasonable possible secenarios...
All hypothetically very logical, but always assuming the predilect seats are actually available and not already taken by another, or that the flyer must fly with little lead time. In the case of the OP, those utilizing oxygen on board must contact the airline at least 48 hours in advance, and they must pay $100 extra
per segment for the oxygen service. But in fact, the OP andothers may have already booked the seats best suited to the couple with the oxygen needs, and I doubt AA and the FAA would allow the O2 bottle and paraphernalia in the bulkhead seats - and I suspect a medical dependence on oxygen is slightly higher than most of us have for a laptop.
But don't mind me, because if you live a long life, or if you encounter illness or misadventure, you may well get the chance to wear those other shoes and see if they fit. We shall certainly hope not, but life is what happens while you plan.
Originally Posted by myfrogger
I don't understand why a passenger with a certain need wouldn't be proactive in taking care of themselves. If they need to sit in a certain seat to ensure that they can carry oxygen, they should book that seat.
If someone wants to use a laptop on a plane, he/she reserves a seat with a power port. If someone wants a window seat, he/she reserves it. If someone has an issue and most go to the bathroom frequently, he/she books a seat close to the bathroom. ETC, ETC, ETC
I don't think that this issue has anything to do with disability...it is simply that someone wasn't smart enough to use the resources at their disposal to ensure that their needs are met during the flight. These types of people show up at the airport and expect a red carpet. It disgusts me.
