[PHXFlyer]

Originally Posted by cinrenhea

Let me begin by saying that I have flown with Allegiant Air several times. I have also flown numerous times with Southwest, Continental, Delta, American Airlines, and others, and up until two days ago have never had a problem with any airline. I have never missed a flight, and I am well aware of the common "be there 2 hours early to check-in" recommendation. This complaint is not about me believing I should receive a refund and being angry that I didn't. I would have been over the 80 dollars that we paid and received nothing for by now, however the way we were treated was just unacceptable to me. It is the worst customer service I have ever experienced, to the extent that when I think of it I am still extremely offended. On with the story:

When I booked my fiance's flight, I did not elect anything that would be an extra cost (other than paying for 1 checked bag), and therefore did not purchase the option to pick where he sat. At the end of the purchase it showed me his itinerary, and also emailed myself a copy. At the top of both there is a blue bar, which in yellow font states:


“HERE IS A COPY OF YOUR ITINERARY. PLEASE USE THE CONFIRMATION NUMBER FOR 24 HOUR ADVANCE CHECK-IN”


There is no asterisk, nor is there little illegible text under that statement which informs you that you cannot do this unless you paid to reserve a particular seat. The last time I flew with Allegiant Air they did not have online check-in. Having been that I have flown many times and checked-in online via different airlines, never having had to pay an extra fee for it, it never crossed my mind that this may be the case.

I went to Allegiant's website and lo and behold found this on the third page of the booking process: (link to screen capture here)

Allegiant Consumer Tips

• Preferred seats are reserved for advance seat selection customers
• Select the aisle, window or exit row seats of your choice
• Guarantee you are seated with your family and friends
• To remove a seat selection, click CHANGE then REMOVE
• Priority Boarding may also be selected for a nominal fee with seat selection
• Only passengers who purchase a seat may utilize Online Check-In

(BOLD emphasis mine)