Originally Posted by
dchristiva
Is the situation really that black and white to you? Seems like some consideration from the person who's seat reclined would have been reasonable.
Yes, it really is that black and white to me. The occupant of the seat is allowed to recline, per the airline. If you want to ask him to limit or eliminate recline for your comfort, you are, at best, asking a gratuitous favor. Favors can be granted or they can be refused. If you are not happy with the space allotted you by the airline, then buy F, fly UA in E+, or don't pick non-reclining seats.
I can't argue with your logic about choosing reclining seats vs. getting assigned a seat that doesn't recline, but I can't say that I disagree with the OP's thought that he's entitled to a little personal space.
He has a little personal space. He is not, however, entitled to the little bit of personal space that I have. I'm curious. Are you as accommodating of the passenger-of-size who insists that you raise the arm rest so that he can intrude in the little bit of personal space that airline has allocated to you? How about the passenger who tries to usurp the space under his seat that the airline has allocated for your use? What applies in the x and y axis applies in the z access as well -- it's a 3-dimensional world.
Doesn't sound like he asked the person in front of him not to recline. Just not to recline as much. A little give and take never hurts, especially in such close quarters.
When you've paid for my seat, you can tell me what to do with it. Otherwise, I'll decide how much recline I need, thank you. Ask me nicely and, if I'm not trying to sleep and/or it's not a long-haul or red-eye, and I might accommodate you. Demand it as an entitlement and you haven't a chance. Threaten me, and I'll escalate the issue to the captain and, if necessary, the police.