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The US Department of Transportation has issued a stern warning to airlines: stop charging families to sit together. That means that the likes of JetBlue, United, and Spirit will need to adopt policies that minimize the chances of families with young children being separated, or face new regulations.
Children who are under the age of 13 should be seated next to an accompanying adult with no additional charge says the DOT, who offers solutions to the airlines such as free seat reservations at the time of booking for qualifying passengers; allowing families to board early if they use an open seating policy; or blocking rows for family use. The request does not apply to adult-only parties (sorry honeymooners!).
The notice comes as US airlines ramp up their profit-making initiatives; most now charge extra for seats closer to the front of the aircraft (but otherwise, come with no added benefit) as well as for carry-on bags. Although the DOT has received a relatively low number of consumer complaints regarding family seating, there has been a noticeable increase in seat separation over the years: in many instances, complaints have arisen where children as young as 11 months old (yes, you heard right) were allocated seats away from their accompanying adult.
Between now and November, airlines will have the opportunity to make a shift in their seating practices before the government agency decides if new regulations need to be put in place. Till then, customers flying with children should head over to the DOT website for tips on how to stay together, and are encouraged to file a complaint if the airline does not try to assist.