Plus-size travel influencer calls for free additional seats for larger passengers on flights
A notable plus-size travel influencer has reinvigorated her call for US airlines to waive the costs for additional seating needed by larger passengers, just in time for the holiday travel season.
Jaelynn Chaney, known for her advocacy in the travel space, argues that bigger passengers should not be “forced to pay twice for the same accommodation” that others obtain with a single ticket. This statement was shared recently in a video posted to TikTok.
Jaelynn asserts, “This isn’t about granting more to plus-size individuals—it’s about fulfilling basic needs.”
For years, the influencer has campaigned for wider seats on planes, claiming air travel companies frequently reduce seat sizes to fit more travelers and boost profits. Jaelynn suggests the US should adopt Canada’s “one person, one fare” policy, which has been in effect since January 2008.
Under Canadian laws, airlines like Air Canada require medical documentation to request seating accommodations due to factors like obesity, and eligibility is determined 48 hours ahead of travel.
Jaelynn Chaney challenges the status quo, demanding a change in airline policies to fairly accommodate larger passengers.
In contrast, Canada’s “one person, one fare” rule has been in place for over a decade, treating every passenger equitably.
The “one person, one fare” initiative requires Canadian passengers to provide their height, weight, body mass index, and physical measurements alongside a doctor’s signature. However, no equivalent exists in the US, where current Department of Transportation rules stipulate that airlines aren’t obligated to supply more than one seat per ticket purchaser.
Skeptics of Chaney’s proposition question the logic, with some suggesting if a passenger occupies two seats, separate fares should be paid. Other critics view the matter personally, mentioning that needing multiple seats would be an indication to lose weight.
In Canada, airlines require detailed documentation for weight-based seating requests, including medical consent.
Returning to Jaelynn’s US advocacy; she seeks to revisit previous requests for refunds when additional seats are bought by passengers who must make such purchases given their size.
Having launched a petition attracting nearly 40,000 signatures, Jaelynn argues, “Airlines should reimburse plus-size passengers who buy extra seats, creating an easy process through online or direct customer service channels.” However, there has been minimal progress on this front.
Besides air travel, Jaelynn has also experienced other struggles, such as getting trapped in a revolving door, highlighting the daily challenges faced by many.
Jaelynn highlights the discrepancy in airline policies regarding the treatment of overweight passengers, stressing the need for fair standards like those present in other countries.
At Chicago O’Hare, despite not routinely using a wheelchair, she required one due to mobility issues and encountered complications with the airport facilities. Her frustrated attempts to get staff assistance went unanswered, exacerbating her ordeal.
At another airport, Jaelynn faced another issue where staff refused to assist her up a jet bridge, coupled with disparaging comments based on her size.
These experiences highlight the broader conversation about the necessity for improved accessibility and fairness in the travel industry for plus-size individuals. Jaelynn’s ongoing advocacy brings these issues to the forefront, reminding stakeholders of the importance of inclusivity and respect for all travelers.
