Q: Because I’m six foot four inches, I usually get an aisle seat when I fly. The problem is, the families sometimes ask me to move so they can sit together. Even if I turn them down with an apology, they act insulted. Is there a better way to handle this?
A: If you have an assigned seat, it’s your right to retain it. Other people shouldn’t take out their frustration on your. If the spirit moves you, when you’re asked to switch places, you can see if a flight attendant can help you find another aisle seat. If the answer is no, a pleasant, “Sorry, but I need this space for my legs” is certainly sufficient.
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I’m glad to see this advice. Occasionally I too am asked to move — since I’m a single traveler some people assume that I’ll move just because they ask. If I don’t mind the seat to which they want me to move, I agree. If I do mind moving (for example I have a tight connection and I need a seat up front, I don’t want the bulkhead) I always decline very politely. If the other person is rude in return, I don’t respond so as not to escalate the situation.