Can airlines charge for families to sit together?

The Price of Family Unity: Why Airlines Can’t Charge Extra for Families to Sit Together

The image of a tearful child separated from their parents on a crowded flight is enough to make any parent’s stomach churn. Beyond the emotional distress, airlines face significant financial repercussions for involuntarily separating families, making the practice not just bad PR, but bad business. Contrary to what some might believe, airlines can’t simply charge extra for families to guarantee seating together. Doing so, or failing to make reasonable efforts to seat accompanying minors with their guardians, can lead to hefty fines.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) takes the issue of family seating very seriously. Their regulations stipulate that airlines must make every reasonable effort to accommodate families traveling with young children, ensuring they are seated together without incurring additional charges. This isn’t merely a suggestion; it’s a legally enforceable requirement. The DOT considers involuntarily separating a child from their accompanying adult a civil violation, punishable by fines that can reach a staggering $40,000 per instance.

This substantial financial penalty serves as a strong deterrent against airlines prioritizing revenue over family well-being. While airlines are businesses operating within a competitive market, the DOT’s regulations underscore that certain aspects of air travel, particularly those concerning the safety and well-being of children, are non-negotiable.

The definition of “young children” generally applies to those under the age of 13. While the regulations don’t explicitly mandate adjacent seating, they require airlines to make “reasonable efforts” to seat families in close proximity, considering factors like aircraft configuration and seat availability. This might mean seating a family across an aisle or in a row behind/in front of each other, but never scattering them throughout the cabin.

What can families do to ensure they are seated together? Booking flights well in advance and selecting seats during the reservation process is often the most effective strategy. Families can also contact the airline directly to explain their needs and request assistance with seating arrangements. If problems arise at the airport, passengers should calmly explain their situation to gate agents and seek their assistance in resolving the issue.

While airlines are navigating the complexities of revenue management and logistical challenges, the imperative remains: family unity in the air shouldn’t come at a premium. The regulations are clear, and the penalties are significant. Keeping families together isn’t just good customer service; it’s the law.