Is It Ever Okay To Ask Someone To Switch Seats On A Plane?

Key Takeaways

Only ask to switch seats if you're offering a better one or it benefits both parties equally, like reuniting two split-up groups.

Never ask someone to trade if it makes their situation worse, like giving up a window, extra legroom, or being with their own family.

The best time to request help is at the gate or once everyone’s seated, and always be polite and ready for a “no.”

Traveling is more fun when you're seated with your party. Most of us would rather be visiting with family and friends instead of total strangers. And if you're traveling with children, keeping everyone's seats together makes the experience much easier. Adults can share the duties of handing out snacks and keeping kids entertained.

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Sometimes we get unlucky with seat assignments, though, and don't get sit where we choose. Can you ask another passenger to change seats with you in that situation? In most cases, the answer is no. It's best not to ask strangers to give up their seats except in these very specific situations.

You Can Offer A Better Seat

If you have a really cushy seat assignment—like a whole row to yourself—you could ask someone who is flying solo if they want to switch so they can have more space. They'll have room to spread out and relax while you can sit with your party.

Never ask someone to move if it would be physically challenging, split up their party, or worsen their seating situation. They may prefer to keep a window or aisle seat, or want to sit in a row where they have more legroom or can exit the plane more quickly.

It's A Fair Trade

Maybe you and another party are in the same situation—they've been split up and so have you. If trading seats would mean uniting both parties, the person sitting next to you may take you up on the offer.

There Are Lots Of Open Seats

This doesn't happen often, but sometimes a flight has so many open seats that a switch wouldn't be likely to inconvenience anyone. Wait until the plane is fully boarded and everyone has settled into their seats before jumping into an unoccupied seat. Ask a flight attendant for assistance before doing so, and wait for a moment when they aren't busy with other tasks.

How To Ask For A Change In Seat Assignment

If your party isn't seated together, it's best to ask a gate agent for help before you get on the plane. If there were cancellations, they may be able to find empty seats that weren't available before.

Wait until absolutely everyone is seated and settled before asking someone to switch. Don't ambush passengers while the aisles are crowded or before everyone knows which seats are occupied.

Ask politely and be prepared to hear "no." Your fellow travelers paid for their seats and don't have to offer an explanation for not wanting to move.

Read the original article on Southern Living