PW, looks like they have changed there policy regarding allocaton of those seats
I totally disagree with a policy of paying extra for those seats, it can lead to too many problems, especially if they then have to be moved. What next, someone returning from a skiing holiday with a broken leg and being told by airline staff that they can have the EE as long as they pay a few extra quid - ludicrous!!
Apologies if some of what I said was a bit generalised, obviously different airlines have different set ups as regards seat changes etc.
On occaision it is worth asking at the gate, especially if the flight has been handed over from flight control to the despatcher, this effectivley means that we can have a look at the seat plan and if the seat is available then we can move you and either liase with or just advise the despatcher of what we have done. If however the answer is still no or its not been done yet then it may be worth asking the crew, after take off when they will be able to better assist you.
Bluejay