I remember when I flew to Paradise Island for the Atlantis opening of its association with the Nickelodeon Channel, and I traveled with my then eight-year-old son. It was just him and me, and I was unhappy to find out we were about 10 rows apart.

It's undoubtedly a feeling of frustration and helplessness.

But perhaps airlines can amend the booking process to accommodate more families. That doesn't mean family members should travel for free, whether 10 rows apart or sitting right next to each other.?

So families should still pay the full price for a seat, but they shouldn't have to spend an extra fee just to sit near each other.

I get it. I do. Airlines are a business, and this, in part, is how they make their income. Far be it from me to tell somebody how to run their business. But there seem to be enough fees, ranging from baggage to changing seats.?

You're already paying full price for the seat, and nobody is asking for a break on that. But you shouldn't have to spend extra just to sit near your child.

As I suggested, perhaps this can all be done during the booking process. Or maybe there can be a designated area in the cabin for families traveling with small children. I don't have all the answers; I'm not an airline executive.

But this is a common sense issue. There has to be a solution. United Airlines, for instance, is about to spend millions for a Super Bowl commercial in which it touts its no-change fee service. If you can change your seat without incurring a fee, this can be done.?

The airlines can still make their money, and passengers can have peace of mind by sitting next to their eight-year-old.

So yes, families should be seated next to each other. No, they shouldn't have to pay extra for the privilege.

For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore