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Families Beware: American Airlines’ Hidden Policy On Keeping Families Together

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.

What To Know

  • One of the most important factors to consider when booking a flight is whether the airline will keep families together.
  • What should I do if I have a large family.
  • Is there a maximum number of seats that can be reserved for a family.

Traveling with family can be both exciting and stressful. One of the most important factors to consider when booking a flight is whether the airline will keep families together. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the policies and practices of American Airlines to determine if they prioritize keeping families seated side by side.

American Airlines Family Seating Policy

American Airlines has a dedicated family seating policy designed to accommodate families traveling together. According to their website, “American Airlines is committed to keeping families together.”

How to Request Family Seating

To request family seating, passengers can:

  • Book online: Select the “Family Seating” option during the booking process.
  • Call American Airlines: Contact the reservations department and request family seating.
  • Check in at the airport: Ask the check-in agent to assign seats together.

Advance Seat Assignments

Advance seat assignments are available for a fee. Families who wish to ensure they are seated together may want to consider purchasing advance seat assignments.

Priority Boarding for Families

American Airlines offers priority boarding for families with children under 5 years old. This allows families to board the plane earlier and secure seats together.

Boarding Process for Families

During the boarding process, families with young children will be called to board early. This provides them with ample time to find seats together.

Seat Availability for Families

American Airlines typically reserves a certain number of seats for families. However, seat availability can vary depending on the flight and aircraft type.

Exceptions to Family Seating

There are a few exceptions to the family seating policy:

  • Exit rows: Families cannot be seated in exit rows.
  • Bulkhead seats: Families may not be seated in bulkhead seats that require additional legroom.
  • Upgrade requests: Families may not be able to keep their seats together if they request an upgrade.

What if Families Are Not Seated Together?

If families are not seated together, they can speak to a flight attendant or gate agent. The airline will make every effort to accommodate families by finding alternative seating arrangements.

Tips for Keeping Families Together

  • Book your flights as early as possible to secure better seat availability.
  • Request family seating during the booking process or when checking in.
  • Consider purchasing advance seat assignments.
  • Arrive at the airport early to take advantage of priority boarding for families.
  • Be prepared to be flexible with your seating preferences.

In a nutshell: Keeping Families Connected

American Airlines recognizes the importance of keeping families together during air travel. While they have a dedicated family seating policy, seat availability can vary. By following the tips outlined in this guide, families can increase their chances of being seated side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is family seating guaranteed?
No, family seating is not guaranteed, but American Airlines makes every effort to accommodate families.

2. How much does it cost to purchase advance seat assignments?
The cost of advance seat assignments varies depending on the flight and seat location.

3. What if my family is not seated together after boarding?
Speak to a flight attendant or gate agent to request alternative seating arrangements.

4. Can families be seated in exit rows or bulkhead seats?
No, families cannot be seated in exit rows or bulkhead seats.

5. What should I do if I have a large family?
Contact American Airlines reservations to discuss group seating options.

6. Does American Airlines offer any discounts for families?
American Airlines may offer occasional promotions or discounts for families.

7. What is the best way to ensure my family is seated together?
Book your flights early, request family seating, and consider purchasing advance seat assignments.

8. What should I do if I have a child with special needs?
Contact American Airlines reservations to discuss special seating arrangements for children with disabilities.

9. Is there a maximum number of seats that can be reserved for a family?
Yes, the maximum number of seats that can be reserved for a family is 6.

10. Can I change my seat assignment after booking?
Yes, you can change your seat assignment online or by contacting American Airlines reservations.

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Jane

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.
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