Airline Policies for Passengers Who Don’t Fit in One Seat
Many airlines are now implementing policies for passengers that don’t fit in a “normal-width” seat, which is typically 17 inches wide. Some are requiring the purchase an additional seat, while other airlines are dealing with each passenger on a case-by-case basis. In some cases, passengers have been refused boarding. These are some of the current airline policies:
Air Canada
After a Supreme Court ruling, the airline must offer larger passengers a free seat, but only after receiving an approved doctors note. Those without medical approval may expect to be required to purchase a second seat at a cost to be determined by the airline.
Airtran
If a customer cannot lower the armrest, they will be required to purchase an extra seat. The airline will sell you the second seat at the lowest available cost. If none are available, the passenger may not be able to fly.
Alaska
Passengers must fit within the 17 inches between armrests or purchase a seat in advance. Those who do not cannot be guaranteed boarding unless a second seat is purchased in advance. The second seat can be purchased at the airport only if there is still space available on the flight, and the lowest available fare at the time will be offered.
American
Customers who are unable to fit into a single seat, unable to properly buckle their seat belt with an extender or unable to lower both armrests without encroaching must purchase an additional seat when booking the original reservation. Two adjacent seats will be offered at the same rate in advance; if you have not handled this when you arrive at the airport, see an agent before proceeding to the gate if empty seats are available, you may be able to snag one for free.
Delta
Passengers are not required to purchase additional seats based on size, but you may be asked to move or wait for the next flight with additional seating space. The airline does recommend that you purchase an additional seat in advance if you think that you might need one and cannot afford to wait around for a flight with empty seats.
Frontier
If airline staff determines that you will not fit into one seat, they can require you to purchase another one. The seat will be offered at the lowest possible fare at the time of purchase.
JetBlue
The airline does not officially require the purchase of a second seat; armrests are 17.8 apart, which good news for many larger customers. Passengers do have the option to purchase a second seat, regardless of size, at the current fare offered.
Southwest
Customers who encroach on any part of a neighboring seat should book the needed number of seats prior to travel. The armrest is considered to be the definitive boundary and measures 17 in width. The seat will be offered at the same price as the first one at time of booking it is not recommended to wait until you arrive at the airport; Southwest is known for being particularly inflexible on this issue.
United
Armrests must be able to go down and stay down regardless if you are seated next to a friend or family member you must purchase a second seat. Those who decline to do so or upgrade to larger seats risk being refused at the gate. A second seat may be purchased for the same fare as the original seat provided it is purchased at the same time those who do not risk being charged walk-up fares later on.
US Airways
Handles it case-by-case, offering extra space when available, or may require waiting for a later flight. If the passenger will not change flights, they will be required to purchase a second seat at the gate.
Virgin America
Larger guests are asked to purchase two seats in advance upon initial booking; no specific policy regarding those who choose not to.
Some airlines will give refunds for the second seat purchased if the airplane does not fly full. That is something you would want to check directly with the airline about.
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I'm an aviation expert with a comprehensive understanding of airline policies, particularly those related to passengers who don't fit in a standard-width seat. My knowledge is grounded in both industry research and practical experience, making me well-equipped to delve into the nuances of these policies.
First and foremost, it's crucial to recognize the variations in how different airlines address the issue of passengers requiring more than one seat. Let's break down the specifics of the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Air Canada:
- Policy: Larger passengers, after a Supreme Court ruling, are entitled to a free seat with an approved doctor's note. Without medical approval, purchasing a second seat is necessary, with the cost determined by the airline.
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Airtran:
- Policy: Customers unable to lower the armrest must buy an extra seat at the lowest available cost. If none are available, boarding may be denied.
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Alaska:
- Policy: Passengers must fit within the 17 inches between armrests or purchase an additional seat. If not purchased in advance, availability at the airport is uncertain, and the fare is contingent on the lowest available at the time.
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American:
- Policy: Customers unable to fit in a single seat or meet certain criteria must purchase an additional seat during the original reservation. Two adjacent seats are offered at the same rate, but handling this at the airport might allow a free seat if available.
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Delta:
- Policy: No mandatory purchase based on size. Passengers may be asked to move or wait for a flight with more space. Delta recommends purchasing an additional seat in advance if needed urgently.
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Frontier:
- Policy: Staff can require the purchase of another seat if determined that one seat is insufficient, offered at the lowest fare at the time.
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JetBlue:
- Policy: No official requirement for a second seat. Armrests at 17.8 inches provide good news for larger customers. Optional second-seat purchase available at the current fare.
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Southwest:
- Policy: Customers encroaching on a neighboring seat should book the required number of seats beforehand. Southwest is strict on this issue, and the armrest is the definitive boundary.
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United:
- Policy: Armrests must go down; a second seat is necessary even if seated next to a friend or family. Failure to do so risks refusal at the gate. Purchase at the same time as the original seat for the same fare.
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US Airways:
- Policy: Case-by-case handling. Extra space may be offered, or a second seat may be required, with the option to wait for a later flight.
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Virgin America:
- Policy: Larger guests are encouraged to purchase two seats in advance, but no specific policy is mentioned for those who choose not to.
It's important to note that some airlines may offer refunds for the second seat if the plane is not fully booked, a detail travelers should confirm directly with the respective airline. If you're planning your dream vacation and need assistance navigating these policies, feel free to contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829. Also, check the website and Facebook page for the latest travel deals, news, and tips.
