In recent years, I have requested seat blocking on every flight I have taken, and every time it has worked.

CNS - SYD Virgin Blue (DJ)
SYD- PER Virgin Blue (DJ)
PER-SYD Virgin Blue (DJ)
SYD-WLG Air New Zealand (NZ)
SYD-CHC Air New Zealand (NZ)
CHC-SYD Air New Zealand (NZ)
SYD-CHC Emirates (EK)
CHC-SYD Emirates (EK)

and once on Jet Star - CHC-SYD I managed to preallocate seating so my partner had the window, I got the Aisle - and no one selected the middle seat.

All of these flights have been booked at the lowest fare - and all of the Air NZ ones were Airpoints rewards.

I am a member of the Frequent Flyer program for each airline, but not a tier member.

It can be done - its all in how you ask for it at checkin.

Obviously if the flight is full it cannot happen, but checking in early seems to make a difference as well.

Good luck to my fellow travellers, but coach (Y) in most airlines is acceptable if you get a spare beside you. Me I love to travel in a premium cabin but only tend to for longer flights.

Adam