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“Not The Airline’s Responsibility”: Plus-Size Traveler’s Struggle With Seat Sparks Online Debate
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“Not The Airline’s Responsibility”: Plus-Size Traveler’s Struggle With Seat Sparks Online Debate

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A plus-size male passenger taking his seat on a plane caused quite a stir on social media. Christopher Elliott took to his Elliott Advocacy Facebook page, a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization, on Tuesday (September 3) to expose an awkward moment while onboarding his flight.

“This guy sat behind me on my flight from Helsinki to Copenhagen yesterday,” Christopher wrote in the caption of the image, which showed the interior of an airplane with passengers seated in economy class. 

Highlights
  • Christopher Elliott's post about a plus-size passenger on a plane sparked a viral social media debate.
  • Opinions on the issue were divided, with some suggesting larger passengers should pay for extra seats.
  • Norwegian Airlines responded, encouraging passengers who need extra space to book additional seats.

The photograph further showcased a large man seated in the foreground, occupying much of his seat, while other passengers were seated or standing in the aisle. 

Christopher wrote: “I felt sorry for him and the guy next to him in the middle seat, both of whom must have felt very uncomfortable for the short flight

“Maybe it’s time for airlines to address situations like this in a thoughtful and sensitive way.”

A plus-size male passenger taking his seat on a plane caused quite a stir on social media

Image credits: Pixabay (not the actual photo)

Hundreds of people flocked to share their divided opinions, as a Facebook user commented: “The big guy should have to pay for more room. Same as I’d have to pay for extra luggage allowance.”

A person wrote: “2 places = double price. End of story.”

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A netizen recalled: “Some thirty years ago a portly travel manager of mine always booked two seats due to his frame. 

“He was a kind and thoughtful man and in his words not mine: ‘I could do something about my weight but I like my food too much therefore why would I make others suffer discomfort for that choice?’ 

“I repeat, he was a kind and thoughtful man.”

Image credits: Eran Menashri (not the actual photo)

Someone else penned: “If I had someone that size ooze into my space I’d ask the airline to move me.”

“I’m 6ft 2in and 200lbs [188 cm tall and weigh 91 kg],” a commenter shared. “I feel I’m pretty average and I feel cramped.” 

They added: “They definitely could make seats larger. That nice gentleman might need to pay for a larger seat though in [the] future. 

“Sadly airlines are a business. They will maximize profits as much as possible. Some enlarging of [seats] might be tolerated by corporate but they aren’t likely going to make seats to fit this guy comfortably. 

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“I do feel sorry for him though. Not everyone can help weight gain. It sometimes can be caused by hormonal diseases and genetics can also play a role. 

“Losing weight is possible, but we all have our battles and weaknesses.”

Christopher Elliott took to his Elliott Advocacy Facebook page on Tuesday (September 3) 

Image credits: Elliott Advocacy

A separate individual chimed in: “I had a woman like this next to me last year. I had to sit kind of sideways as to not be touching her. 

“My legs and hips were sore for days because I sat like that for 4 hours,” one man commented.

Christopher clarified that he was seated in front of the passenger with his son and that they flew with the low-cost airline Norwegian.

The columnist said he was surprised by the attention his post gained, telling Bored Panda in an email on Friday: “I was just sharing an image from my flight, which I do from time to time on Facebook.

“Most of the comments were thoughtful and compassionate. Some of them were negative, but I guess that’s what happens when a post is popular.”

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Image credits: Gerrie van der Walt (not the actual photo)

The Elliott Advocacy founder further revealed: “I posted the picture because I think it’s time for an honest conversation about the size of airline seats. 

“They’re simply too small for most passengers, and at some point, the lack of space is going to be a safety problem.”

When asked about his experience of the flight, altogether, Christopher replied: “It was fine. People had to squeeze to get around the larger passenger, but other than that, it was a routine flight.”

Norwegian has since responded to the concern. They told Bored Panda in an email on Friday: “In general, we encourage passengers who desire or need extra space to book an additional seat.

“This applies especially in cases where the passenger needs a seatbelt extender or cannot fit between the armrests.”

Christopher exposed an awkward moment while boarding his flight

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Image credits: Aayush Shah (not the actual photo)

The Scandinavian airline continued: “Our crew is trained to handle situations where passengers who need extra space have not booked an additional seat, but it’s not an issue we encounter very often.

“It’s important for us to handle such cases in a considerate and respectful manner.

“Although we, in cases like this, don’t have a firm requirement to purchase extra seats, we will always ensure the safety of our passengers.

“This means, for instance, that passengers with mobility impairments cannot sit by the emergency exits.”

Norwegian emphasized the importance of handling these types of situations

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Norwegian (@flynorwegian)

Plus-size travel influencer Jae’lynn Chaney addressed this issue in May when she slammed Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for discrimination in a viral TikTok video.

Jae’lynn posted footage of herself boarding an airplane in Seattle, Washington, USA, and she explained that she had requested wheelchair assistance, an initiative she claimed to always do as a result of her physical condition as a “plus-size wheelchair user.”

When the time came for Jae’lynn to board her plane, she claimed the employee meant to assist her with her wheelchair walked away from her after noticing she wouldn’t be assisting “smaller passengers.”

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The 27-year-old recalled at the time: “She started to walk away with the wheelchair while making comments about my size.

“Even when I told her I really needed the chair and needed her to let me sit down in it, she blatantly ignored me and kept walking.”

Jae’lynn said in her viral TikTok video that she was subsequently forced to “walk up one of the longest jet bridges [she’s] encountered” and that by the time she had been allowed to reach her wheelchair and sit down, her lips had turned white as her “oxygen levels had dropped.”

She added: “I almost fainted, this was my first time flying without oxygen. This woman just assumed I could walk and would rather me do that instead of her having to push someone my size up the jet bridge.

“All the other attendants wheeled their passengers up the jet bridge, but my needs were disregarded. This is discrimination, nobody should be treated this way.”

Plus-size travel influencer Jae’lynn Chaney addressed this issue in May

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Image credits: jaebaeofficial

Jae’lynn said these types of incidents were examples of why airports needed “employee sensitivity training,” which was a demand that had been outlined in a plus-size travel petition the influencer started last year.

The petition, which has amassed 39,324 signatures of its 50,000 target as of Friday (September 6), recounted Jae’lynn’s experience traveling with her fiancé, Ard, who is also plus-sized, and the discrimination they have been subjected to.

During a flight from Pasco, Washington, to Denver, Colorado, Ard was subjected to hateful comments, disapproving looks, and refusals to sit next to him, the petition stated.

“Similarly, on another flight, I was forced to occupy only one seat with immovable armrests that caused me pain and bruises,” Jae’lynn wrote.

The influencer’s petition demands that The Federal Aviation Administration require all airlines to have a comprehensive policy for accommodating customers of size. 

This includes providing additional seats, offering refunds for extra seats purchased, clear communication of policies, airport assistance, priority boarding, larger lavatories, seat belt extenders, and specific sections for larger seats on new aircraft. 

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It also calls for mandatory employee training on respectful treatment and the inclusion of wheelchair-accessible lavatories on new planes. 

Additionally, the petition demands that the Transportation Security Administration should implement guidelines and training for respectful screenings of customers of size.

Christopher’s post continued to ignite different reactions

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Andréa Oldereide

Andréa Oldereide

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I’m a journalist who works as Bored Panda’s News Team's Senior Writer. The news team produces stories focused on pop culture. Whenever I get the opportunity and the time, I investigate and produce my own exclusive stories, where I get to explore a wider range of topics. Some examples include: “Doberman Tobias the viral medical service dog” and “The lawyer who brought rare uterine cancer that affects 9/11 victims to light”. You've got a tip? email me: andrea.o@boredpanda.com

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Andréa Oldereide

Andréa Oldereide

Writer, BoredPanda staff

I’m a journalist who works as Bored Panda’s News Team's Senior Writer. The news team produces stories focused on pop culture. Whenever I get the opportunity and the time, I investigate and produce my own exclusive stories, where I get to explore a wider range of topics. Some examples include: “Doberman Tobias the viral medical service dog” and “The lawyer who brought rare uterine cancer that affects 9/11 victims to light”. You've got a tip? email me: andrea.o@boredpanda.com

Donata Leskauskaite

Donata Leskauskaite

Author, BoredPanda staff

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Hey there! I'm a Visual Editor in News team. My responsibility is to ensure that you can read the story not just through text, but also through photos. I get to work with a variety of topics ranging from celebrity drama to mind-blowing Nasa cosmic news. And let me tell you, that's what makes this job an absolute blast! Outside of work, you can find me sweating it out in dance classes or unleashing my creativity by drawing and creating digital paintings of different characters that lives in my head. I also love spending time outdoors and play board games with my friends.

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Donata Leskauskaite

Donata Leskauskaite

Author, BoredPanda staff

Hey there! I'm a Visual Editor in News team. My responsibility is to ensure that you can read the story not just through text, but also through photos. I get to work with a variety of topics ranging from celebrity drama to mind-blowing Nasa cosmic news. And let me tell you, that's what makes this job an absolute blast! Outside of work, you can find me sweating it out in dance classes or unleashing my creativity by drawing and creating digital paintings of different characters that lives in my head. I also love spending time outdoors and play board games with my friends.

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George Costanza
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Plus-sized"? That man is morbidly obese. Like going-to-die-before-50 obese. He absolutely should have to pay for more than one seat, he's oozing over into the aisle which is a safety hazard for everyone else.

George Costanza
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Jesus now the headline says "large framed". There is no such thing. People don't have frames. He's morbidly obese, plain and simple.

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G A
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Put less seats in, charge more for flights. Excessively overweight? Buy 2 seats. That Jaelyn woman? Ban her, she's a s**t stirrer. Jobs a good 'un.

pep Ito
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

LowCost airlines' low fares are achieved by putting more passengers on the plane and this is achieved by maximizing space. This means that they are not going to increase the size of the seats for a small percentage of potential users. I'm going to be harsh, but if a person of that size wants to fly, they should go on a normal airline and occupy/reserve at least two seats.

May
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Was about to say the same....Even 'regular sized' travelers know the difference between low cost and regular airlines in terms of seats width.

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Trillian
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There should be a ruling that over a certain weight/size you NEED to buy an extra seat. I would hate to sit next to them and have them half on my seat.

Janissary35680
Community Member
Premium
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines require carry-on baggage to fit in the overhead locker. They should be required to ensure that passengers' backsides fit in the seats assigned to them.

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ButFirstCoffee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not the airline's fault for letting some passengers get so big they need 2 seats. Personal accountability.

Jan Kovář
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Plus size? I am half the size of that man and I would describe myself as fat. Yes, I eat too much. This is something I will probably never understand. How does it help avoiding obvious?

Tim Richards
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Jaelyn is obnoxious and a whining baby. Every little thing is discrimination when in fact, she can control her part in this but chooses not to because it gets her attention. Are planes too cramped? Yes, but that doesn't mean they universally need to be designed to accommodate 500-pound passengers nor should I have to have them draped over me because they don't fit in the seat.

Cee Cee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That passenger who claims her oxygen levels dropped so much her lips went white. I always thought your lips turned blue if you were cyanosed.

Bart
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Also if you're physically unable to walk up a jetty, maybe you should think twice before you fly... Imagine a emergency situation where you need to exit the plane...

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greenideas
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Regarding the wheelchair woman: yes, the employee just walking away wasn't a good response, however employees are not allowed to perform strenuous labor by law (there are limits, e.g. as to how much a woman can lift). This is meant to prevent injury and subsequent lawsuits for the company. You can't reasonably expect a petite employee to push a 400+ pound individual.

René Sauer
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have never flown before, But I have to say as a plus sized person myself: Why should it be the airlines responsibility to accommodate people like me? If I am uncomfortable it should be my own responsibility to remedy that.

Kate Jones
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm fat and I wouldn't do this to anyone. I always save up for a first class seat if I know I'm going to fly. That's the price I pay for being overweight. I'm totally okay with them having a safety and fair policy in place for purchasing additional seats per size range. This is not a sensitivity issue-it's a safety issue. I'm sorry if it hurts your *wittle feewings* that someone points out that you're fat, but we have to deal with reality and this person could hurt you if you were in a crash. Not to mention how horrible it would be to be crammed into the seat next to you for 14 hours. It's not fair to the other passengers or the staff to have to bend to you. I know that I deal with my weight myself, i'm not forcing someone else to figure stuff out. The problem for me is more the way people talk about this man. It's completely unnecessary to call him names or make jokes about him and you should be more ashamed than he should be if you're that person.

Craig Reynolds
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a people problem, not an airline problem! The airline has no idea how big a person is and if they will fit until they show up, but the person absolutely knows. They just purposely choose not to buy a second seat or business/first class which are larger seats. Maybe airlines should have a seat sizer at the gate the way they have a checked bag sizer. If a person doesn't fit, they are required to buy a second seat or upgrade to a business/first class larger seat if available. If neither option is available, deny boarding and refund them. No free upgrades or additional compensation. Until there are consequences, these people will keep doing what they do.

cugel.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

God knows what happens if there's two of them, and the airline seats them next to each other. My guess: still the airlines fault.

May
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Happened to me a couple of years ago going to L.A. Was stuck between two siblings both of them obese and clearly taking 20% of my space on both side. They didn't want to switch because one wanted the window, and the other access to the corridor (I was originally given the corridor). I was too afraid to spark an argument so didn't say anything but this was the most uncomfortable trip ever. Like grabbing a book in your backpack below you was a difficult task.

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Diolla
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have long legs which means with some airlines I have to buy extra legroom. Maybe next time I should sue them for not accommodating tall people 😁 But seriously, flying us uncomfortable as it is, so if I KNOW I won't fit in the chair I will pay to solve that issue.

Marno C.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I dunno. I am feeling a bit weird that --even though the man is in public-- someone secretly takes his photo and shares it with the internet in order to invite the world to comment on his body and his right to exist in that public space. Is this how we treat people now?

P. Barnum
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anybody want to start a plus size airline with me? Where there are 2 instead of 3 seats, but the price is 50 percent higher? Weight minimum of 200 lbs. Then us fatties aren't clogging the aisles of the normies. And we can add wheelchair access (no mins required) and maybe a geriatric section for the less mobile. Instead of first class, we'll call it fat class. And why not make the seats swivel and recline a bit? And we will only carry the best snacks. It's a deluxe sized experience. Then no thin person will ever complain about fat people on their planes ever again. Mean while, Plus Airlines will have 60 percent of all air travel because of how many people in the US are morbidly obese.

Super Beast
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a great idea. Normies would absolutely try to get on the comfy plane with great snacks. Imagine the drama and the outcry 😂

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Mike F
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A great litmus test would be whether the seat belt can be fastened. If not, sorry but you have to pony up for a larger seat. I had an aunt who got quite large in her later years and quit flying altogether for this reason. She couldn't get the seat belt fastened. She opted to drive at that point. Her kids found her an older model Oldsmobile that she could get into and out of. There are options but folks seem to think that by making noise to get their way, it solves the issue. Sadly, not so.

Dragons Exist
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To the poll: no, but not because of cost. How would adding bigger seats work? I'm pretty sure people his size aren't on every flight, and we all know that people would complain about not being allowed to sit in the bigger seats

UncleJohn3000
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Dude, I'm sorry they won't sell you a seat that you fit in but I paid $600 for a full seat. If you need a third of mine, it's going to cost you $200."

Robin Roper
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have an overweight friend who frequently flies for his work. He is not nearly as large as some of these in the photos and he always books two seats. He also has his own seatbelt extender so he is more comfortable.

S. K.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airfares should be based on a total weight, e.g. 150kg, for both a person and their luggage. If you're lighter, you get to bring more luggage. If you're over 150kg by yourself, well you need to pay for additional weight for both yourself and your luggage. Why should I be discriminated against for keeping my weight healthy? It's the total weight and its location in the plane that counts, not the weight of the luggage (which is invariably lighter than the weight of the passengers anyway).

Diolla
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not a bad idea but it doesn't solve the problem of ppl showing up who don't fit in their seat.

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KatSaidWhat
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This comes up every week. Maybe it's time airlines took out a couple of seats and put a plus sized one in and say it is available if necessary, but stating upfront that it will be charged for. the low cost is because the plane is small and seats are narrow. You already know if you are that big that you are not going to fit on one. Maybe say something to the airline in advance and they can try working around.

AR
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’m overweight, and if I can’t stay within the bounds of my seat, I’ll need to buy two. It sucks but that’s life.

Guess Undheit
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines could avoid this by having rows with TWO wider seats where there normally are three. Charge 150% of the regular seat fare. People can get more space without paying for two seats. It's not difficult, so why aren't they doing it?

Aidan Pite
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sadly, I've heard of passengers who did think ahead and payed for a second seat, only to still have to crush their neighour. They couldn't get the seats together, and figured, 'no problem, I'll just explain to my seat neighbour and they can go sit in my vacant second seat.' Easy, right? Except since only one person checked in for two tickets, somebody else had been given the empty second seat.

Pedantic Panda
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Hey Mister. On the plane i'm gonna need two seats, for the twins" Homer Simpson

Yuffa Kinazzo
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Peter Griffin wore a girdle to get on a roller-coaster. Didn't work out for them all.

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jennifer brinkman
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am a 5ft5in woman around 125 the last time i flew and I had a tight fit and was uncomfortable. How is the average man supposed to fit??? Seats need to be a lot bigger! Just common sense! Airlines need to stop being so greedy!!!

Mary Chriszt
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There should be a guide at the gate as there is for carryon luggage

LonelyLittleLeafSheep
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We cannot know why someone is morbidly obese (thyroid/pituitary issues or compulsive behavior?) so judging, harassing, or criticizing them in any way is cruel and unnecessary. However, airline seats for obese passengers could be created, and placed in the aircraft in places to stabilize the load. Airlines could prioritize passenger safety and comfort, if they wanted to, but they have chosen profits over people. And until that changes, passengers over a specific size should be required to purchase 2 seats. One of many reasons I don't fly.

Lisa Barbeau
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True but the medical issues tend to be a small minority while approximately 40% of people in the US are obese.

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aquamarinesailing
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

6+ flights a week and I have had my thigh sat on, shoulders pushed over to the side, you name it. If you don't fit, you don't sit in one seat. That chick who thinks the airline should reconstruct an entire plane, including the bathroom size for her mass is ridiculous. I have had sweaty pungent passengers oozing into my seat many times. It's not fair and they should have to pay a weight premium just as I have to for extra baggage. For anyone who thinks I am heartless I am no skinny mini, but this entitled behaviour has to come to an end. In the event of an accident, steep banking, turbulence it is a safety hazard pure and simple for the person that is being squashed.

MarieL
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If the person requires a "lap belt" extender, then they are too obese for just one seat, and the airline should require them to purchase two seats. I had to sit next to an obese woman on a flight. Her thighs were so large that the armrest could not be brought all the way down to the "locked" position. Her hip girth spread well over 5 inches into my seat, and I had to sit with my legs crossed at the knees for the entire flight. My view has nothing to do with discrimination, and ONLY to do with passenger comfort, safety, and fairness in pricing!

iseefractals
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Obesity is not a disability, and trying to frame it that way is an insult to people with actual disabilities. A disability is something that can't be changed. I have 60-40 hearing loss, my father was paralyzed from the chest down....those are disabilities'. Something that can be fixed by eating LESS and moving MORE does not qualify. If YOU have permitted yourself to get so large as to require the same amount of space as two (or more) people, that's added cost is your burden. Airplanes require a specific fuel to weight ratio to be able to get from point A to point B....that's why on small aircraft, they require passengers to disclose their weight and assign specific seats, and while commercial flights charge extra for additional, or heavy luggage. Expecting an airline to provide "free for you" additional seating, means that would result in HIGHER TICKET PRICES for EVERYONE ELSE. The continued entitlement and over delusion of that triple sized "travel influencer" is unreal.

P. Barnum
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Disability access on flights is also an issue. A win for fat people is a win for the wheelchair bound or differently abled. More space for better, safer access.

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ByeFelicia
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These people would be responsible for hundreds of deaths in an emergency situation. Lose weight or don't fly.

Paul Rabit
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you are going to make the argument that seats are too small for the average-sized person, maybe try not using an extremely above average-size person to prove your point.

catpanda
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People can say what airlines "should" do, but while things remain as they are, someone who takes up two seats should pay for two seats. It is extremely uncomfortable for the plus-sized passenger and grossly unfair to the seat-mate.

Jo Firth
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Someone commented that seats used to be larger in planes. Yes, they were, but they were never THAT large. I feel for people who are morbidly obese because it's not just about food intake. Having said that, airlines should not be held accountable for accommodating them.

Karen Wharram
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was embarrassed to get a seat belt extender but the steward was discreet. The next plane was fine, no extension needed. Realized the seat belt had worn out and was made smaller rather than replace it. I do remember when seats were much bigger in the 70's. Why do we need to go backwards.

Curry on...
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He's obese, so yes, the airline should have some solutions, whether it means he has to pay more or sit somewhere else. I feel the same for us tall folk. I am 5'10"and airlines have taken so much room from these seats that I am seldom comfortable. It wasn't like that just a few years ago. I have a trip coming up, and I had to pay over $200 more for 4 more inches, and it's not business class or first class. It sucks and the airlines get to be greedy at their customer's expense.

Cheese Cake
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think THEY should accommodate to a healthy lifestyle, or else, they should stay at home. That's it. It is always the other the problem, while they eat for 5 people and grow their asses seating on the couch.

Roberta Halverson
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was talking to my brother who is a pilot & weighing passengers before boarding. It's a matter of fuel economy also. That guy jammed in the seat will cost more fuel as he is not calculated in the average

WubiDubi
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm 78kg and the airline told me not to change my seat due to aircraft balancing for safety and fuel economy. What the hell is this guy told? Him moving mid-flight will affect the flight? He doesn't fit one seat so he has to buy two like any musician with an instrument that costs the same as a new car.

Iowa
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

On a flight from New York to Atlanta, I once had a man who was probably 6’ 8” and every bit of 500 pounds literally sit on top of me. There were no extra seats, and we were sitting in a 2-wide aisle. He was embarrassed, and I was embarrassed for him….only problem was I was also being crushed. The Delta stewardesses saw it but offered no consolation.

R Dennis
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fine, don't let larger people fly. (I am disabled and my medication put over 100lbs on me, which I have been able to drop ½.) I bet that once only people who fit comfortably in the current seats can fly, the industry will have to change. They are winning because instead of complaining about the space shrinking people blame the other passengers. It's like companies blaming increasing the minimum wage for prices while simultaneously taking record profits...

Sara Kreps
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

how will providing a certain number of fat sized seats help? (because let's be highest, these are not just plus sized people.) what happens when those seats are full? do the airlines not let big people book on that flight anymore? now there's a whole new can of worms. some airlines used to require people over a certain size had to buy two tickets but then they got in trouble over that. I think that's the solution, and make sure at least 1 arm rest can be moved.

Bec
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Around 40% of Americans are obese, this isn't an issue that is going away but the airlines aren't going to act on their own, it would require some kind of regulation

Captain McSmoot
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We essentially have a battle of two businesses: the food industry and the travel industry. The food industry is clearly winning the battleground for that man and many others like him. If the travel industry refuses to change the way they do things based on the success of the food industry, that is their prerogative. The sleeping industry is not expected to change how they do things simply because the caffeine/energy industry is succeeding with some people who abuse their product to the point of not being able to get quality sleep. This man and others like him are solely responsible for how much they consume and what it does to them once they are in public. Public is a shared space and this should be respected. If you choose to live a life of obesity, you should also be prepared to literally pay the consequences of your choices when interacting with the public. For example, Strongmen are huge, muscular, strong people; they dedicate their lives to that, but they PAY for extra seating.

LonelyLittleLeafSheep
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You have no way of knowing what is the root cause of their obesity. Maybe it's a malfunctioning thyroid or pituitary disease? I agree that they still need to pay for an extra seat, but you are being wildly judgemental and making assumptions about someone else's health without knowing anything else about them.

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blinkaoa187
Community Member
1 month ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am morbidly obese and I dread the thought of getting onto an airplane and sitting in one of those seats, but if I absolutely had to fly, I would ask the airline the recommendations on how to fly comfortably and if it meant getting a second seat I would. That said, I do dislike the people who compare it to them paying extra for oversized luggage... they have the option to reduce their luggage if necessary. An overweight person cannot leave part of themselves behind. People can certainly be upset if their space is being violated, I don't like touching strangers either, but comparing people to luggage has always rubbed me the wrong way.

Marianne
Community Member
1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nowadays, there are just more people who are so large that they simply can't fit in a "normal" seat (I as an average person also struggle with them). Why don't airlines just reserve a single row for oversized passengers and make them 2 seats instead of 3? The tickets could be a little more expensive, but still more affordable than always buying 2 seats.

j miller
Community Member
1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines have been shrinking seat-size for decades to fit more paying customers on every flight. The concept of 'one size (seat) fits all' does NOT work in a confined space!!

Kandace Khoury
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's so evident this passenger cannot fit into only one seat. As this is a clear safety issue, it's on the airline to either ensure he is accommodated or not allow him on the plane. Just like they tell us a bag is too big, so might a person be. I'm sure this pax knew it as well so no sympathy for the big guy here.

Aiden Brough
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Amazing how we see things in 2024. A women (I can't remember her name, but she keeps appearing on this site) of equal size and calls herself an 'influencer' (dear lawd) demanding airliners GIVE her two seats because she's large and yet a man of equal statue is pointed at and mocked. Just proves the double standards we now have. For the record I think BOTH shouldn't be on a plane because they are clearly safety concerns should you need to get off in a hurry...

Luci
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Make larger plus size seats and charge extra… regular size people have to pay extra for more seating room and it’s not fair to pay for a flight and not be comfortable bc there 400 pounds worth of human poured into the seat next to you

David Hamm
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Let the fatties sit in the cargo hold. Charge them by the pound!

SirWriteALot
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So ... I buy a ticket for one seat on a plane and I can't sit in it because one butt-cheek of gravitationally-challenged person is taking up this seat?

Willie D'Kay
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thing is, airlines are private companies and not like a public transportation bus funded by city tax payer money. Would it be nice to offer plus-size accommodation? Of course. They could even just have one or 2 plus-size seats and if it's booked already, then unfortunately the larger person has to wait for the next available flight. My carry-on has to fit within a size and weight restriction to be able to fly with me, it could apply to humans as well. The comment about looking at it like if it were a rollercoaster seat and safety restrictions meaning a lot of people just can't ride, makes a ton of sense.

Roberta Surprenant
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel very bad for that person, but he knew what size he was and what size plane seats are before boarding. I have run into that situation at amusement parks when my behind was too big to fit comfortably in the chair swings.

Carole G.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines should have a section with larger seats. Just like Economy, Business, First Class. May pa a bit more but comfort is important to everyone & being a larger size should not make people feel bad about themselves. You don't know what a person is going through. HAVE SOME COMPASSION.

Julie Schraeder
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Seats are too small. I'm only 5'5", 160 lbs but my knees often hit the seat in front. Most men are around 6' & 220 & I know they aren't comfortable. 40% of Americans are obese. It's a nightmare to have to sit next to one of them. Someone that size should have to purchase 2 seats but perhaps get the 2nd seat at half price. Seats are already incredibly expensive. I would hate to have to buy 2.

Daisy1355
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's just no good way to do this. We have no idea what the circumstances are for the person needing to fly. Maybe they can't afford two seats and it was an emergency, let alone affording the insane prices of business or first class. Maybe they bought two seats and the airline oversold as they often do, so it didn't matter anyway. If airlines made a section of bigger seats with a slightly higher cost with this in mind, you can't stop smaller people from booking them for comfort and leaving others stuck in the smaller seats anyway. And overbooking is still a problem anyway. And airlines aren't going to make all the seats big enough because the cost would drain profits too much or make ticket prices too high to compensate. And you can't just have the airline see who is on a flight and seat people accordingly, people want the freedom to choose. People and airlines should both be doing their parts but it's not like any one solution is just going to fix everything.

Cary Petterborg
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was once on a sold out flight where I had to sit between 2 gentlemen that weighed almost 300 lbs each. I could hardly move sitting there. They should have been required to purchase at least a seat and a half each. Making purchase accommodations should be a priority. Too bad if someone has to provide their weight and height to purchase a ticket. And be honest in your weight submission, because it not, they should be able to refuse boarding. I don't think that they necessarily should have to pay more, but a couple of large seats per flight, with the requirement that you be plus size to get that seat should be available. And again, if someone likes to just get more room, they can be refused boarding the flight.

Beachbum
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thing is, the airline has bigger seats, first class and premium economy. Larger people just don’t want to pay the extra price. If your bag is too heavy, you pay more, if you need more space, you pay more. That being said, airlines should have to make their seats larger, especially for long flights. My husband and I were larger people, we could fit in economy but it was tight so when flying longer flights we paid for better seats.

Jennifer C
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow, people would rather defend the profit margin of the rich airline owners than the physical well being of a passenger because they're fat. Being squeezed in-between two arms rests if physically painful and to do it for hours? Excutiating. So 50% of commenters really believe that a human being should be punished with pain or a double ticket price for the social sin of being fat. God people are horrible.

Janet L
Community Member
1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You try sitting in the next seat and see if you manage the same sanctimonious tone

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George Costanza
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Plus-sized"? That man is morbidly obese. Like going-to-die-before-50 obese. He absolutely should have to pay for more than one seat, he's oozing over into the aisle which is a safety hazard for everyone else.

George Costanza
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Jesus now the headline says "large framed". There is no such thing. People don't have frames. He's morbidly obese, plain and simple.

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G A
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Put less seats in, charge more for flights. Excessively overweight? Buy 2 seats. That Jaelyn woman? Ban her, she's a s**t stirrer. Jobs a good 'un.

pep Ito
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

LowCost airlines' low fares are achieved by putting more passengers on the plane and this is achieved by maximizing space. This means that they are not going to increase the size of the seats for a small percentage of potential users. I'm going to be harsh, but if a person of that size wants to fly, they should go on a normal airline and occupy/reserve at least two seats.

May
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Was about to say the same....Even 'regular sized' travelers know the difference between low cost and regular airlines in terms of seats width.

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Trillian
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There should be a ruling that over a certain weight/size you NEED to buy an extra seat. I would hate to sit next to them and have them half on my seat.

Janissary35680
Community Member
Premium
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines require carry-on baggage to fit in the overhead locker. They should be required to ensure that passengers' backsides fit in the seats assigned to them.

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ButFirstCoffee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not the airline's fault for letting some passengers get so big they need 2 seats. Personal accountability.

Jan Kovář
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Plus size? I am half the size of that man and I would describe myself as fat. Yes, I eat too much. This is something I will probably never understand. How does it help avoiding obvious?

Tim Richards
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Jaelyn is obnoxious and a whining baby. Every little thing is discrimination when in fact, she can control her part in this but chooses not to because it gets her attention. Are planes too cramped? Yes, but that doesn't mean they universally need to be designed to accommodate 500-pound passengers nor should I have to have them draped over me because they don't fit in the seat.

Cee Cee
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That passenger who claims her oxygen levels dropped so much her lips went white. I always thought your lips turned blue if you were cyanosed.

Bart
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Also if you're physically unable to walk up a jetty, maybe you should think twice before you fly... Imagine a emergency situation where you need to exit the plane...

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greenideas
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Regarding the wheelchair woman: yes, the employee just walking away wasn't a good response, however employees are not allowed to perform strenuous labor by law (there are limits, e.g. as to how much a woman can lift). This is meant to prevent injury and subsequent lawsuits for the company. You can't reasonably expect a petite employee to push a 400+ pound individual.

René Sauer
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have never flown before, But I have to say as a plus sized person myself: Why should it be the airlines responsibility to accommodate people like me? If I am uncomfortable it should be my own responsibility to remedy that.

Kate Jones
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm fat and I wouldn't do this to anyone. I always save up for a first class seat if I know I'm going to fly. That's the price I pay for being overweight. I'm totally okay with them having a safety and fair policy in place for purchasing additional seats per size range. This is not a sensitivity issue-it's a safety issue. I'm sorry if it hurts your *wittle feewings* that someone points out that you're fat, but we have to deal with reality and this person could hurt you if you were in a crash. Not to mention how horrible it would be to be crammed into the seat next to you for 14 hours. It's not fair to the other passengers or the staff to have to bend to you. I know that I deal with my weight myself, i'm not forcing someone else to figure stuff out. The problem for me is more the way people talk about this man. It's completely unnecessary to call him names or make jokes about him and you should be more ashamed than he should be if you're that person.

Craig Reynolds
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a people problem, not an airline problem! The airline has no idea how big a person is and if they will fit until they show up, but the person absolutely knows. They just purposely choose not to buy a second seat or business/first class which are larger seats. Maybe airlines should have a seat sizer at the gate the way they have a checked bag sizer. If a person doesn't fit, they are required to buy a second seat or upgrade to a business/first class larger seat if available. If neither option is available, deny boarding and refund them. No free upgrades or additional compensation. Until there are consequences, these people will keep doing what they do.

cugel.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

God knows what happens if there's two of them, and the airline seats them next to each other. My guess: still the airlines fault.

May
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Happened to me a couple of years ago going to L.A. Was stuck between two siblings both of them obese and clearly taking 20% of my space on both side. They didn't want to switch because one wanted the window, and the other access to the corridor (I was originally given the corridor). I was too afraid to spark an argument so didn't say anything but this was the most uncomfortable trip ever. Like grabbing a book in your backpack below you was a difficult task.

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Diolla
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have long legs which means with some airlines I have to buy extra legroom. Maybe next time I should sue them for not accommodating tall people 😁 But seriously, flying us uncomfortable as it is, so if I KNOW I won't fit in the chair I will pay to solve that issue.

Marno C.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I dunno. I am feeling a bit weird that --even though the man is in public-- someone secretly takes his photo and shares it with the internet in order to invite the world to comment on his body and his right to exist in that public space. Is this how we treat people now?

P. Barnum
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anybody want to start a plus size airline with me? Where there are 2 instead of 3 seats, but the price is 50 percent higher? Weight minimum of 200 lbs. Then us fatties aren't clogging the aisles of the normies. And we can add wheelchair access (no mins required) and maybe a geriatric section for the less mobile. Instead of first class, we'll call it fat class. And why not make the seats swivel and recline a bit? And we will only carry the best snacks. It's a deluxe sized experience. Then no thin person will ever complain about fat people on their planes ever again. Mean while, Plus Airlines will have 60 percent of all air travel because of how many people in the US are morbidly obese.

Super Beast
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is a great idea. Normies would absolutely try to get on the comfy plane with great snacks. Imagine the drama and the outcry 😂

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Mike F
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A great litmus test would be whether the seat belt can be fastened. If not, sorry but you have to pony up for a larger seat. I had an aunt who got quite large in her later years and quit flying altogether for this reason. She couldn't get the seat belt fastened. She opted to drive at that point. Her kids found her an older model Oldsmobile that she could get into and out of. There are options but folks seem to think that by making noise to get their way, it solves the issue. Sadly, not so.

Dragons Exist
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To the poll: no, but not because of cost. How would adding bigger seats work? I'm pretty sure people his size aren't on every flight, and we all know that people would complain about not being allowed to sit in the bigger seats

UncleJohn3000
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Dude, I'm sorry they won't sell you a seat that you fit in but I paid $600 for a full seat. If you need a third of mine, it's going to cost you $200."

Robin Roper
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have an overweight friend who frequently flies for his work. He is not nearly as large as some of these in the photos and he always books two seats. He also has his own seatbelt extender so he is more comfortable.

S. K.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airfares should be based on a total weight, e.g. 150kg, for both a person and their luggage. If you're lighter, you get to bring more luggage. If you're over 150kg by yourself, well you need to pay for additional weight for both yourself and your luggage. Why should I be discriminated against for keeping my weight healthy? It's the total weight and its location in the plane that counts, not the weight of the luggage (which is invariably lighter than the weight of the passengers anyway).

Diolla
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not a bad idea but it doesn't solve the problem of ppl showing up who don't fit in their seat.

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KatSaidWhat
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This comes up every week. Maybe it's time airlines took out a couple of seats and put a plus sized one in and say it is available if necessary, but stating upfront that it will be charged for. the low cost is because the plane is small and seats are narrow. You already know if you are that big that you are not going to fit on one. Maybe say something to the airline in advance and they can try working around.

AR
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’m overweight, and if I can’t stay within the bounds of my seat, I’ll need to buy two. It sucks but that’s life.

Guess Undheit
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines could avoid this by having rows with TWO wider seats where there normally are three. Charge 150% of the regular seat fare. People can get more space without paying for two seats. It's not difficult, so why aren't they doing it?

Aidan Pite
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sadly, I've heard of passengers who did think ahead and payed for a second seat, only to still have to crush their neighour. They couldn't get the seats together, and figured, 'no problem, I'll just explain to my seat neighbour and they can go sit in my vacant second seat.' Easy, right? Except since only one person checked in for two tickets, somebody else had been given the empty second seat.

Pedantic Panda
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Hey Mister. On the plane i'm gonna need two seats, for the twins" Homer Simpson

Yuffa Kinazzo
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Peter Griffin wore a girdle to get on a roller-coaster. Didn't work out for them all.

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jennifer brinkman
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am a 5ft5in woman around 125 the last time i flew and I had a tight fit and was uncomfortable. How is the average man supposed to fit??? Seats need to be a lot bigger! Just common sense! Airlines need to stop being so greedy!!!

Mary Chriszt
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There should be a guide at the gate as there is for carryon luggage

LonelyLittleLeafSheep
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We cannot know why someone is morbidly obese (thyroid/pituitary issues or compulsive behavior?) so judging, harassing, or criticizing them in any way is cruel and unnecessary. However, airline seats for obese passengers could be created, and placed in the aircraft in places to stabilize the load. Airlines could prioritize passenger safety and comfort, if they wanted to, but they have chosen profits over people. And until that changes, passengers over a specific size should be required to purchase 2 seats. One of many reasons I don't fly.

Lisa Barbeau
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True but the medical issues tend to be a small minority while approximately 40% of people in the US are obese.

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aquamarinesailing
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

6+ flights a week and I have had my thigh sat on, shoulders pushed over to the side, you name it. If you don't fit, you don't sit in one seat. That chick who thinks the airline should reconstruct an entire plane, including the bathroom size for her mass is ridiculous. I have had sweaty pungent passengers oozing into my seat many times. It's not fair and they should have to pay a weight premium just as I have to for extra baggage. For anyone who thinks I am heartless I am no skinny mini, but this entitled behaviour has to come to an end. In the event of an accident, steep banking, turbulence it is a safety hazard pure and simple for the person that is being squashed.

MarieL
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If the person requires a "lap belt" extender, then they are too obese for just one seat, and the airline should require them to purchase two seats. I had to sit next to an obese woman on a flight. Her thighs were so large that the armrest could not be brought all the way down to the "locked" position. Her hip girth spread well over 5 inches into my seat, and I had to sit with my legs crossed at the knees for the entire flight. My view has nothing to do with discrimination, and ONLY to do with passenger comfort, safety, and fairness in pricing!

iseefractals
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Obesity is not a disability, and trying to frame it that way is an insult to people with actual disabilities. A disability is something that can't be changed. I have 60-40 hearing loss, my father was paralyzed from the chest down....those are disabilities'. Something that can be fixed by eating LESS and moving MORE does not qualify. If YOU have permitted yourself to get so large as to require the same amount of space as two (or more) people, that's added cost is your burden. Airplanes require a specific fuel to weight ratio to be able to get from point A to point B....that's why on small aircraft, they require passengers to disclose their weight and assign specific seats, and while commercial flights charge extra for additional, or heavy luggage. Expecting an airline to provide "free for you" additional seating, means that would result in HIGHER TICKET PRICES for EVERYONE ELSE. The continued entitlement and over delusion of that triple sized "travel influencer" is unreal.

P. Barnum
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Disability access on flights is also an issue. A win for fat people is a win for the wheelchair bound or differently abled. More space for better, safer access.

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ByeFelicia
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These people would be responsible for hundreds of deaths in an emergency situation. Lose weight or don't fly.

Paul Rabit
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you are going to make the argument that seats are too small for the average-sized person, maybe try not using an extremely above average-size person to prove your point.

catpanda
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People can say what airlines "should" do, but while things remain as they are, someone who takes up two seats should pay for two seats. It is extremely uncomfortable for the plus-sized passenger and grossly unfair to the seat-mate.

Jo Firth
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Someone commented that seats used to be larger in planes. Yes, they were, but they were never THAT large. I feel for people who are morbidly obese because it's not just about food intake. Having said that, airlines should not be held accountable for accommodating them.

Karen Wharram
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was embarrassed to get a seat belt extender but the steward was discreet. The next plane was fine, no extension needed. Realized the seat belt had worn out and was made smaller rather than replace it. I do remember when seats were much bigger in the 70's. Why do we need to go backwards.

Curry on...
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He's obese, so yes, the airline should have some solutions, whether it means he has to pay more or sit somewhere else. I feel the same for us tall folk. I am 5'10"and airlines have taken so much room from these seats that I am seldom comfortable. It wasn't like that just a few years ago. I have a trip coming up, and I had to pay over $200 more for 4 more inches, and it's not business class or first class. It sucks and the airlines get to be greedy at their customer's expense.

Cheese Cake
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think THEY should accommodate to a healthy lifestyle, or else, they should stay at home. That's it. It is always the other the problem, while they eat for 5 people and grow their asses seating on the couch.

Roberta Halverson
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was talking to my brother who is a pilot & weighing passengers before boarding. It's a matter of fuel economy also. That guy jammed in the seat will cost more fuel as he is not calculated in the average

WubiDubi
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm 78kg and the airline told me not to change my seat due to aircraft balancing for safety and fuel economy. What the hell is this guy told? Him moving mid-flight will affect the flight? He doesn't fit one seat so he has to buy two like any musician with an instrument that costs the same as a new car.

Iowa
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

On a flight from New York to Atlanta, I once had a man who was probably 6’ 8” and every bit of 500 pounds literally sit on top of me. There were no extra seats, and we were sitting in a 2-wide aisle. He was embarrassed, and I was embarrassed for him….only problem was I was also being crushed. The Delta stewardesses saw it but offered no consolation.

R Dennis
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fine, don't let larger people fly. (I am disabled and my medication put over 100lbs on me, which I have been able to drop ½.) I bet that once only people who fit comfortably in the current seats can fly, the industry will have to change. They are winning because instead of complaining about the space shrinking people blame the other passengers. It's like companies blaming increasing the minimum wage for prices while simultaneously taking record profits...

Sara Kreps
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

how will providing a certain number of fat sized seats help? (because let's be highest, these are not just plus sized people.) what happens when those seats are full? do the airlines not let big people book on that flight anymore? now there's a whole new can of worms. some airlines used to require people over a certain size had to buy two tickets but then they got in trouble over that. I think that's the solution, and make sure at least 1 arm rest can be moved.

Bec
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Around 40% of Americans are obese, this isn't an issue that is going away but the airlines aren't going to act on their own, it would require some kind of regulation

Captain McSmoot
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We essentially have a battle of two businesses: the food industry and the travel industry. The food industry is clearly winning the battleground for that man and many others like him. If the travel industry refuses to change the way they do things based on the success of the food industry, that is their prerogative. The sleeping industry is not expected to change how they do things simply because the caffeine/energy industry is succeeding with some people who abuse their product to the point of not being able to get quality sleep. This man and others like him are solely responsible for how much they consume and what it does to them once they are in public. Public is a shared space and this should be respected. If you choose to live a life of obesity, you should also be prepared to literally pay the consequences of your choices when interacting with the public. For example, Strongmen are huge, muscular, strong people; they dedicate their lives to that, but they PAY for extra seating.

LonelyLittleLeafSheep
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You have no way of knowing what is the root cause of their obesity. Maybe it's a malfunctioning thyroid or pituitary disease? I agree that they still need to pay for an extra seat, but you are being wildly judgemental and making assumptions about someone else's health without knowing anything else about them.

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blinkaoa187
Community Member
1 month ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am morbidly obese and I dread the thought of getting onto an airplane and sitting in one of those seats, but if I absolutely had to fly, I would ask the airline the recommendations on how to fly comfortably and if it meant getting a second seat I would. That said, I do dislike the people who compare it to them paying extra for oversized luggage... they have the option to reduce their luggage if necessary. An overweight person cannot leave part of themselves behind. People can certainly be upset if their space is being violated, I don't like touching strangers either, but comparing people to luggage has always rubbed me the wrong way.

Marianne
Community Member
1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nowadays, there are just more people who are so large that they simply can't fit in a "normal" seat (I as an average person also struggle with them). Why don't airlines just reserve a single row for oversized passengers and make them 2 seats instead of 3? The tickets could be a little more expensive, but still more affordable than always buying 2 seats.

j miller
Community Member
1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines have been shrinking seat-size for decades to fit more paying customers on every flight. The concept of 'one size (seat) fits all' does NOT work in a confined space!!

Kandace Khoury
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's so evident this passenger cannot fit into only one seat. As this is a clear safety issue, it's on the airline to either ensure he is accommodated or not allow him on the plane. Just like they tell us a bag is too big, so might a person be. I'm sure this pax knew it as well so no sympathy for the big guy here.

Aiden Brough
Community Member
2 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Amazing how we see things in 2024. A women (I can't remember her name, but she keeps appearing on this site) of equal size and calls herself an 'influencer' (dear lawd) demanding airliners GIVE her two seats because she's large and yet a man of equal statue is pointed at and mocked. Just proves the double standards we now have. For the record I think BOTH shouldn't be on a plane because they are clearly safety concerns should you need to get off in a hurry...

Luci
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Make larger plus size seats and charge extra… regular size people have to pay extra for more seating room and it’s not fair to pay for a flight and not be comfortable bc there 400 pounds worth of human poured into the seat next to you

David Hamm
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Let the fatties sit in the cargo hold. Charge them by the pound!

SirWriteALot
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So ... I buy a ticket for one seat on a plane and I can't sit in it because one butt-cheek of gravitationally-challenged person is taking up this seat?

Willie D'Kay
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thing is, airlines are private companies and not like a public transportation bus funded by city tax payer money. Would it be nice to offer plus-size accommodation? Of course. They could even just have one or 2 plus-size seats and if it's booked already, then unfortunately the larger person has to wait for the next available flight. My carry-on has to fit within a size and weight restriction to be able to fly with me, it could apply to humans as well. The comment about looking at it like if it were a rollercoaster seat and safety restrictions meaning a lot of people just can't ride, makes a ton of sense.

Roberta Surprenant
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel very bad for that person, but he knew what size he was and what size plane seats are before boarding. I have run into that situation at amusement parks when my behind was too big to fit comfortably in the chair swings.

Carole G.
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Airlines should have a section with larger seats. Just like Economy, Business, First Class. May pa a bit more but comfort is important to everyone & being a larger size should not make people feel bad about themselves. You don't know what a person is going through. HAVE SOME COMPASSION.

Julie Schraeder
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Seats are too small. I'm only 5'5", 160 lbs but my knees often hit the seat in front. Most men are around 6' & 220 & I know they aren't comfortable. 40% of Americans are obese. It's a nightmare to have to sit next to one of them. Someone that size should have to purchase 2 seats but perhaps get the 2nd seat at half price. Seats are already incredibly expensive. I would hate to have to buy 2.

Daisy1355
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's just no good way to do this. We have no idea what the circumstances are for the person needing to fly. Maybe they can't afford two seats and it was an emergency, let alone affording the insane prices of business or first class. Maybe they bought two seats and the airline oversold as they often do, so it didn't matter anyway. If airlines made a section of bigger seats with a slightly higher cost with this in mind, you can't stop smaller people from booking them for comfort and leaving others stuck in the smaller seats anyway. And overbooking is still a problem anyway. And airlines aren't going to make all the seats big enough because the cost would drain profits too much or make ticket prices too high to compensate. And you can't just have the airline see who is on a flight and seat people accordingly, people want the freedom to choose. People and airlines should both be doing their parts but it's not like any one solution is just going to fix everything.

Cary Petterborg
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was once on a sold out flight where I had to sit between 2 gentlemen that weighed almost 300 lbs each. I could hardly move sitting there. They should have been required to purchase at least a seat and a half each. Making purchase accommodations should be a priority. Too bad if someone has to provide their weight and height to purchase a ticket. And be honest in your weight submission, because it not, they should be able to refuse boarding. I don't think that they necessarily should have to pay more, but a couple of large seats per flight, with the requirement that you be plus size to get that seat should be available. And again, if someone likes to just get more room, they can be refused boarding the flight.

Beachbum
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thing is, the airline has bigger seats, first class and premium economy. Larger people just don’t want to pay the extra price. If your bag is too heavy, you pay more, if you need more space, you pay more. That being said, airlines should have to make their seats larger, especially for long flights. My husband and I were larger people, we could fit in economy but it was tight so when flying longer flights we paid for better seats.

Jennifer C
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow, people would rather defend the profit margin of the rich airline owners than the physical well being of a passenger because they're fat. Being squeezed in-between two arms rests if physically painful and to do it for hours? Excutiating. So 50% of commenters really believe that a human being should be punished with pain or a double ticket price for the social sin of being fat. God people are horrible.

Janet L
Community Member
1 month ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You try sitting in the next seat and see if you manage the same sanctimonious tone

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