@lindag, I have not seen many people being allowed to board wildly out of order (with the exception of A-Listers being able to board before the B group). Most gate agents do not get too concerned if B18 boards before B16, but they typically would not let a C5 board when A1-A30 get called. I often buy the Early Bird for family members on early flights so they can get a wall on which to prop their head for a nap, so even though a B10 boarding pass isn’t great, it would likely still get them a wall further back. I like the open seating policy because of allergies, and I will move back if something triggers my nose (pets, perfumes), but I can understand how it might vex those who are not used to it. But the full price SWA flights with early bird are typically less expensive than the basic fares on other airlines, so that is the main thing that keeps me coming back, even if I occasionally get a middle seat. But I understand others want to have the opportunity to buy a specific seat; it is just not my mindset. I also try try to give the seat savers the benefit of the doubt, hoping they are together for some fun event versus just taking a regular old business trip like me. They can have some fun, and we all get to the same place at the same time. I hope your future travels go well, regardless of what seat on what airline.
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