United Airlines in America require obese people to purchase a second seat

by Ryan Hogan | Monday, July 13, 2009

In what turned out to be a surprisingly low profile change in rules, one of the biggest airlines in the world, United Airlines introduced a policy entitled ‘Passengers Requiring Extra Space’. In a nutshell, it states that if a person cannot fit into a single standard seat or is unable to lower the armrests due to their physical size, they must purchase a second seat!

To be fair, it does also state that should there be an available seat on the same flight, the passenger would not be required to purchase the additional seat, and they would simply be accommodated in a seat that had an empty spot next to it.

Doing a bit of research, it appears that here, down under, neither Qantas nor Virgin Blue yet have written procedures or policies to deal with these rather embarrassing situations, which brings up the question, should they?

Clearly combining two problems into one (an increasing level of obese Australians and intense competitive pressure on airlines to sell more seats and transport more people) is not going to produce a favourable result to anyone involved.

You can read the full press release by United Airlines here.

What do you think about this move in policy? Should Qantas and Virgin be adopting similar practices? Have you been stuck in a similar situation?

Posted by: Anonymous | 14-Jul-2009 11:09 AM |

As harsh as this may sound, if I have to pay extra because my luggage weighsa few kilos more than acceptable amount, then why should it be different for individuals who take up more space inside the cabin? I think we have made excuses for the obesity epidemic for too long. Where there is no legitimate underlying medical condition, I think the time is well due for companies and governments to take a good hard look at the policies they implement as the message they present has the power to either pander to a lifestyle choice or make a powerful statement.

Posted by: Anonymous | 14-Jul-2009 01:49 PM |

I agree with the above statement 100% Is is harsh but so is the reality of the situation people this obese have gotten themselves into. It is a complex condition and one that cannot usually be beat without much support and guidence from friends, family and professionals. This being said - the reality is that if something is not done they will die prematurely and in the meantime cost the health system lots of funds that could be spent on further preventative measures. Maybe it is the wake-up call some people will need.

Posted by: Anonymous | 25-Aug-2009 08:29 PM |

Hi, I agree with the above comments and particularly regarding the extra costs for luggage. I understand that there must be a limit put to how much each passenger can carry onboard. However, body weight is part of it and should be taken into account, maybe in a "global" sort of weight limit including both passenger + luggage ?
From a comfort point of view and safety of the trip, I also think that obese people should indeed have to book two seats, the second one possibly at a lower price ?