TOKYO: Fed up with finding yourself next to a screaming child on a long-haul flight? On some Japanese airlines a seat map will warn you where potentially bawling babies are sitting.
The facility, offered as part of Japan Airlines' "Smile Support" travel service for those with infants, is not new, but lit up the Internet after a Twitter user praised it.
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"Thank you, @JAL_Official_jp for warnings me about where babies plan to scream and yell during a 13 hour trip. This really ought to be mandatory across the board," venture capitalist Rahat Ahmed tweeted.
A somewhat bemused JAL spokeswoman confirmed the feature, pointing out it was not a novel offering.
At least one other Japanese airline does the same: All Nippon Airways (ANA), where a spokeswoman confirmed its seat maps have shown where children are sitting "for a while".
JAL's maps indicate where infants under two are sitting, with a child icon to let "other passengers know".
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The relevation caused an Internet firestorm, with supporters and naysayers battling it out.
"Answered prayers", airline specialist site The Points Guy titled a post on the subject.
"Nice. But how long before we get upcharged for seats away from said babies?" one user asked.
Another called the map an unnecessary offering.
"Japan Airlines seat map helps avoid screaming babies. Why not just have noise cancelling headphones?!"
