Whine Wednesday: Airplane Seat Switcheroo on Royal Jordanian

How many times have you boarded a plane only to find someone already sitting in your seat, asking you to switch?

Well, this happened to me twice in February/March, and both times it was on Royal Jordanian.

Couple Holding Hands

Upon boarding, I saw someone already sitting in my seat.

I asked the flight attendant to handle the situation. She came back and told me that the couple would like to sit together and asked if I would be willing to switch. I simply shook my head, and soon, the couple moved to two seats in the middle (which were likely assigned to them in the first place, but one of them wanted a window seat).

Mother with Toddler

I noticed this family in the lounge in Paris; they had two kids and a toddler.

The mother and toddler were sitting in my seat, so I asked the flight attendant to manage it. They soon moved to other seats on the plane, hopefully near their father.

In both instances, the seat next to me stayed empty.

My goal on these flights is always to be “last one in, first one out,” as I really dislike the gate area chaos. I tend to arrive just as the doors are about to close, and if the flight is on time, I can walk straight to the plane.

I’m open to switching seats, but only if you are not already sitting in my assigned seat and the seat I’m offered is either in a higher cabin or equal/better than my current one.

I do not entertain seat switches if you’re already sitting in my seat and don’t offer something in a higher cabin.

Both of the Royal Jordanian cases fell into the second category. I had chosen a business class window seat, and there was nothing better available.

These planes have a 2-2-2 configuration, and although the middle section provides direct aisle access without having to climb over anyone, I always prefer the window, as I can then control the window shade, and as I I skip food and beverages on these flights, there is rarely a need to use the lavatory.

Conclusion

Passengers should not attempt to take “empty” seats or switch them until they hear the announcement “boarding completed” or when the doors are closed.

Even then, it’s a good idea to ask the flight attendant if you can switch seats, or at least, that’s what I do.

I monitor empty seat availability using ExpertFlyer, and my preference is not to sit next to someone.

This is easier now, as most airlines have a 1-2-1 layout in business class, though some still have 2-2-2 or even 2-3-2 configurations.

What have been your experiences with switching seats or someone sitting in your assigned seat? Please comment below.

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