Should gate agents change seat assignments for more comfort?

In a recent incident at an airport in the United States, a Delta gate agent took proactive measures to enhance the travel experience of passengers on a flight from St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The flight, which was not full, prompted the agent to make the decision to rearrange seating arrangements to ensure that passengers had an empty middle seat next to them. This thoughtful action was highlighted by a traveler who shared a screenshot of the seating chart on Reddit, showcasing the agent’s effort to provide additional comfort. The photo indicated that nearly every middle seat was unoccupied, and passengers were moved to more desirable aisle or window seats. This move has drawn significant attention from Reddit users, who have expressed admiration and appreciation for the gate agent's actions. Many comments celebrated the gate agent's initiative, suggesting that such gestures should be rewarded by the airline. Several users remarked that this level of customer service is rarely seen, especially on busier flights where seats tend to be filled to capacity. The post encourages discussions surrounding airline customer service, with some suggesting that creating such positive experiences can lead to customer loyalty and retention. Users have noted that in their years of traveling, they have rarely experienced similar accommodations, emphasizing the unusual nature of the agent's actions. A Delta spokesperson responded to this situation by stating that while these instances may be rare, Delta employees are empowered to enhance customer experiences when circumstances allow. This particular incident illustrates how small gestures can significantly impact passengers' travel experiences, reinforcing the notion that good customer service can leave a lasting impression. Such practices, when they occur, have the potential to influence customers' choices in the future when it comes to selecting an airline for their travels.