Originally Posted by e6bpilot

THIS is exactly what we need. Our rules were written in a time before assigned seating was even a thought and the results are predictable. As for the present, I don't blame SWAPA for the company being obstinate. I do blame them for allowing very loose language to make it into a TA. That's over and done, though. What I am concerned about now is the end result. Pilots should be put in premium seats if they are available, should be first in line for upgrade, and should never be forced to be in a middle. Those are easy changes to make and will prevent fatigue calls and down line disruptions. I cannot imagine doing a transcon in a middle and then flying a leg. Absolutely not. There used to be language about deadheading on a flight over 2 hours in the jumpseat back when they could force us to ride in it. It's the same issue....it's impossible to get any sort of "downtime" in the middle with Mr Manspread on one side and Mrs. Hamhock on the other. I will 100 percent call fatigued, but many would not, and that concerns me.