Thanks Gromit801, you have confirmed the sad state of airline affairs in the U.S. I will keep your preference in mind when I fly in the future. I guess all we can do is bury them in complain letters. I sent mine to Mr. Smisek today! He should try flying the middle seat in economy for 5-1/2 hrs. on one of his planes. See how he likes not having any leg room, no elbow room, not being able to access his under-the-seat bag, having to disrupt the aisle passenger each time he wants to get up and having to endure the surly attendants. Oh, I forgot, the passenger in front being in his lap
I won't hold my breath, but I can dream.