What's with Row 10 on the 777?

[MrJetset]

My no status partner booked a whY+ fare on VA SYD-LAX return. I was helping him with seat selection and VA advised that all of the first row (Row 10) are blocked 'for operational reasons.'

Now really?

Checking E/F some of the seats are actually occupied, and the agent said if a medical certificate was provided, they could allocate those seats. They are not emergency exit seats so I'm a little puzzled.

Anyone know why this is?

 

[777]

I thought it was pretty standard to reserve the front row in most cabins for either Status pax or those with children/ bassinets. Many airlines do something similar.

 

[MrJetset]

So is Row 10 for status pax?

 

[777]

So is Row 10 for status pax?

Well it may well be and for bassinets/ those with special needs. I was offered it on a recent booking (as a plat) so seems quite likely. As i said, many airlines reserve the front rows in each cabin for status pax.

 

[Fruitcake]

As a platinum I've been auto-assigned row 10 on the 777.

So their "operational reason" is probably a combination of keeping some bassinets free and keeping plats happy.

 

[Shy180]

So is Row 10 for status pax?

Quite simply yes.

 

[Justinf]

Row 10 should be avoided anyway. You get less legroom.
And it was my understanding that row 10 is for bassinets and remains blocked unless you are travelling with an infant, but as a Gold member I was autoassigned row 10 as well. I changed to row 13.

 

[Boof1]

I'm on the fence about if you should avoid row 10 to be honest. Yes there is slightly less legroom but you get the little footrest pillow thingie, you can pop your shoes off and rest your feet on the bulkhead, and if you've got a window or in the middle of the row of 4 you don't have to squeeze past your seat mate to get out if the seats in front are reclined. I'd actually give up the inch of legroom for what I've pointed out here...