Flight attendant blocks off empty seats on Hawaii to California flight; Quotes $180 charge to fliers

This incident has sparked discussions about airline policies and customer service, particularly in situations where flights have empty seatsPhoto byNick MoralesonUnsplash

A recent United Airlines flight from Honolulu to Los Angeles has drawn attention after passengers were prevented from moving to empty seats unless they paid an additional fee.

The incident, highlighted on Gary Leff's blog, involved a flight attendant who quoted a price of $180 to passengers wishing to spread out into unoccupied seats.

According to one passenger who shared their experience, when the offer to pay was declined, the flight attendant proceeded to block off the empty seats by opening each seat’s tray table, effectively preventing anyone from moving to them.

This incident has sparked discussions about airline policies and customer service, particularly in situations where flights have numerous vacant seats.

The practice of charging for seat changes and the method of blocking seats has raised questions among travelers about the fairness and transparency of such policies.