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Up 42,000ft with no room to manoeuvre

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London

I got a holiday later this year but I’m praying my on-board experience will be different from my last; I was seated between two individuals who were both spilling into my seat space, let’s just say it was VERY cramped.

So, how should airlines resolve/prevent a dilemma for other passengers? Should airlines install larger seats/space? Should larger folks pay more?

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By *icecouple561Couple  over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex

Most airlines have a strict policy of not discriminating. For our comfort we always book extra space seats and won't fly with airlines that don't offer them.

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By *lynJMan  over a year ago

Morden

Was the plane full? Could you ask to be moved?

Maybe ask for an aisle seat so you'll only have one close neighbour.

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By *ellhungvweMan  over a year ago

Cheltenham

Fly business or first class - problem solved!

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By *aucasian GhandiMan  over a year ago

from my dad's left nut (Warwick)

Go to Skeggy

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London


"Most airlines have a strict policy of not discriminating. For our comfort we always book extra space seats and won't fly with airlines that don't offer them. "

First time it happened to me. I paid extra for a preferred seat on the return flight.

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By *izandpaulCouple  over a year ago

merseyside


"Most airlines have a strict policy of not discriminating. For our comfort we always book extra space seats and won't fly with airlines that don't offer them. "

On short haul we book a comfort seat, basically the middle seat in a row of 3.

We've had a few people trying to sit in the seat and not really comprehending the fact we have bought and paid for it.

Paul has said to one lady he would happily let her take the seat as long as she pays us what we paid for it, always take a paper copy of our booking too, saves any grief.

If you are on a flight you know won't be that full, book the window and isle seats, not many folks want to sit in between you and if they insist usually you can agree to move along and sit together.

To be honest, if its a short haul flight we would be happy to stand up for the price we pay.

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By *icecouple561Couple  over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex


"Most airlines have a strict policy of not discriminating. For our comfort we always book extra space seats and won't fly with airlines that don't offer them.

First time it happened to me. I paid extra for a preferred seat on the return flight."

It's the best way of dealing with it I think. All other options would be an administrative nightmare.

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London


"Was the plane full? Could you ask to be moved?

Maybe ask for an aisle seat so you'll only have one close neighbour. "

Was a full flight and to make matters worse, there was a 4hr delay too. Doubt they would’ve moved me up a class.

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By *lynJMan  over a year ago

Morden


"Was the plane full? Could you ask to be moved?

Maybe ask for an aisle seat so you'll only have one close neighbour.

Was a full flight and to make matters worse, there was a 4hr delay too. Doubt they would’ve moved me up a class."

It's always worth asking. The worst they can say is no.

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By *utterflyandArtificeCouple  over a year ago

Trowbridge

Ha ha this brings back memories of me and my medic buddy flying on an East African airline's Dash8. Most of the locals are relatively thin and have a reputation for being long distance runners.

We they sat me and my buddy next to each other on this tiny aircraft. My buddy was a junior World Champion powerlifter, who had stopped training, but not eating and I am not so small either. We both jammed our oversized backsides into the seats and politely fought for the next hour or so for dominance of the arm rest space, it having been folded up to fit us in on boarding.

After landing and getting sorted, we decided to go out for a beer and fodder. We ordered a taxi and a Bajaj (aka TukTuk) came for us, the best bit is when we were wedged in and the bajaj driver tried driving up a hill into town, he kicked us both out to walk up the hill and picked us up at the top. He didn't get a tip!

Happy days

I understand the frustration of the OP, however you just have to accept that life sucks at times. Aim of next time, you might be sat between me and my buddy.

Amasagenalo!

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By *idlandiaMan  over a year ago

Birmingham


"Go to Skeggy "

SO bracing!

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"I got a holiday later this year but I’m praying my on-board experience will be different from my last; I was seated between two individuals who were both spilling into my seat space, let’s just say it was VERY cramped.

So, how should airlines resolve/prevent a dilemma for other passengers? Should airlines install larger seats/space? Should larger folks pay more?"

Yes, we should implement discriminatory policies and make fat people pay more.

Actually, men tend to be bigger than women and also generally weigh more (on average), so we should charge men more.

Disabled people take fucking ages to be boarded by the assistance people too, so while we're at it, let's stop disabled people taking flights because it's inconvenient to the people who have to wait.

Can you see the issue?

The solution is not to punish people for being people. The solution is for Mr O'Leary, et.al. to stop the "pile 'em high and cheap" approach. Which will cost EVERYONE more.

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By *ophieslutTV/TS  over a year ago

Central

Passengers are able to arrange the travel that suits them best. Airline seats are too small IMO but they support cheaper travel. I'd book extra seats or move up a class, if it didn't suit me.

I'd also reserve a window or aisle seat, if I didn't want to get trapped between others. I always travel window seat, as I prefer some solitude

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By *otSoPoshWoman  over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon

And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room.

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room."

Preach!

It'll be like bikes in the wheelchair spaces on trains. Overheard a member of station staff recommending a cyclist with a bulky e-bike book the wheelchair space if he wanted to guarantee getting on a train. This whilst I was sat IN a wheelchair, waiting to board (with assistance, of course) a train.

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By *icecouple561Couple  over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room."

We book those seats because Mr N is tall.

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By *iss.ddWoman  over a year ago

Leeds + Newcastle

It's not just 'big' people spilling over.

It's the 6ft 6 woman in the middle seat using all 3 foot spaces, it's the muscle man with shoulders wider than the seat but a trim waist.

Book an aisle, book a bigger seat or just suck it up.

I guarantee you that no matter now inconvenienced you feel, they'll feel worse

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By *otSoPoshWoman  over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room.

We book those seats because Mr N is tall. "

My partner is the same... he is 6'11", so he books those seats. Being too tall or too wide for a regular seat is a nightmare.

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By *rHotNottsMan  over a year ago

Dubai & Nottingham

I alway try and use an airline with actual normal sized seats like Air France, KLM, Norwegian , Turkish, they are much better value than the cheapies

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room.

We book those seats because Mr N is tall. "

Mr KC is 6ft 4 but he sits in the regular seats. Mainly because they won't let wheelchair users to sit in the extra leg room seats (which are usually near the exit/over the wing). We have to sit where we're told. Some airlines insist I sit in the window seat specifically, and only at the back. Which is a bugger when it's a sky-link tunnel to board and you have to be aisle-seat wrestled from front to back. Aisle-seats are an exquisite sort of torture

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London


"I got a holiday later this year but I’m praying my on-board experience will be different from my last; I was seated between two individuals who were both spilling into my seat space, let’s just say it was VERY cramped.

So, how should airlines resolve/prevent a dilemma for other passengers? Should airlines install larger seats/space? Should larger folks pay more?

Yes, we should implement discriminatory policies and make fat people pay more.

Actually, men tend to be bigger than women and also generally weigh more (on average), so we should charge men more.

Disabled people take fucking ages to be boarded by the assistance people too, so while we're at it, let's stop disabled people taking flights because it's inconvenient to the people who have to wait.

Can you see the issue?

The solution is not to punish people for being people. The solution is for Mr O'Leary, et.al. to stop the "pile 'em high and cheap" approach. Which will cost EVERYONE more. "

Discriminatory policies….. I’m not so sure. Most things carry weight limits. Take a passenger lift, they have an average number of users based on the assumption of average weight.

I’ve never come across blogs/stories of passengers complaining of those with disabilities, and I generally wouldn’t mind if it took longer. It’s usually what happens in the air which people, like myself, complain about.

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By *otSoPoshWoman  over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room.

We book those seats because Mr N is tall.

Mr KC is 6ft 4 but he sits in the regular seats. Mainly because they won't let wheelchair users to sit in the extra leg room seats (which are usually near the exit/over the wing). We have to sit where we're told. Some airlines insist I sit in the window seat specifically, and only at the back. Which is a bugger when it's a sky-link tunnel to board and you have to be aisle-seat wrestled from front to back. Aisle-seats are an exquisite sort of torture "

Pffft. You wheely people with your gripes. Suck it up and do as you're told. And don't even think about getting off the plane in an emergency please

(Please please don't tell me off NC... I'm only being sarky cos I know exactly where Mrs KC is coming from and have been there and she knows I don't mean it and why did you give me the shovel back in the first place )

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room."

An hour after check in and all aisle/window seats were gone. It’s as if everyone thought ‘were flying west so I’d better reserve a good seat’

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"I got a holiday later this year but I’m praying my on-board experience will be different from my last; I was seated between two individuals who were both spilling into my seat space, let’s just say it was VERY cramped.

So, how should airlines resolve/prevent a dilemma for other passengers? Should airlines install larger seats/space? Should larger folks pay more?

Yes, we should implement discriminatory policies and make fat people pay more.

Actually, men tend to be bigger than women and also generally weigh more (on average), so we should charge men more.

Disabled people take fucking ages to be boarded by the assistance people too, so while we're at it, let's stop disabled people taking flights because it's inconvenient to the people who have to wait.

Can you see the issue?

The solution is not to punish people for being people. The solution is for Mr O'Leary, et.al. to stop the "pile 'em high and cheap" approach. Which will cost EVERYONE more.

Discriminatory policies….. I’m not so sure. Most things carry weight limits. Take a passenger lift, they have an average number of users based on the assumption of average weight.

I’ve never come across blogs/stories of passengers complaining of those with disabilities, and I generally wouldn’t mind if it took longer. It’s usually what happens in the air which people, like myself, complain about."

I've experienced the looks (that would kill) as I am trundled past the already -seated people. People who can see it's now past the planned departure time because of the fact the airport didn't board me sooner. I've had people refuse to sit down briefly to allow the assistance team to come and actually assist. I've heard cabin crew complaining that my continued presence at the end of a flight is stopping them getting home (which it is) and that they are not getting paid to remain onboard. But apparently policy is that they have to. It's not my fault that pre-booked assistance doesn't turn up.

See the Twitter feed and multiple news reports from the BBC's Frank Gardner, who has frequently experienced the lack of assistance and general poor attitudes of others travelling.

Wanting to get to Amsterdam or Tenerife makes people really, really selfish, is what I've learned.

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By *icecouple561Couple  over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room.

We book those seats because Mr N is tall.

Mr KC is 6ft 4 but he sits in the regular seats. Mainly because they won't let wheelchair users to sit in the extra leg room seats (which are usually near the exit/over the wing). We have to sit where we're told. Some airlines insist I sit in the window seat specifically, and only at the back. Which is a bugger when it's a sky-link tunnel to board and you have to be aisle-seat wrestled from front to back. Aisle-seats are an exquisite sort of torture

Pffft. You wheely people with your gripes. Suck it up and do as you're told. And don't even think about getting off the plane in an emergency please

(Please please don't tell me off NC... I'm only being sarky cos I know exactly where Mrs KC is coming from and have been there and she knows I don't mean it and why did you give me the shovel back in the first place )"

I'm not going to tell you off .

However the seats we book are available for everyone except KC and I'm genuinely sorry for that. What am I to do?

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By *otSoPoshWoman  over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room.

We book those seats because Mr N is tall.

Mr KC is 6ft 4 but he sits in the regular seats. Mainly because they won't let wheelchair users to sit in the extra leg room seats (which are usually near the exit/over the wing). We have to sit where we're told. Some airlines insist I sit in the window seat specifically, and only at the back. Which is a bugger when it's a sky-link tunnel to board and you have to be aisle-seat wrestled from front to back. Aisle-seats are an exquisite sort of torture

Pffft. You wheely people with your gripes. Suck it up and do as you're told. And don't even think about getting off the plane in an emergency please

(Please please don't tell me off NC... I'm only being sarky cos I know exactly where Mrs KC is coming from and have been there and she knows I don't mean it and why did you give me the shovel back in the first place )

I'm not going to tell you off .

However the seats we book are available for everyone except KC and I'm genuinely sorry for that. What am I to do?"

Thanks

I agree entirely. Literally the only answer is higher prices across the board, fewer, larger and bigger leg room seats. I doubt in this day and age that's a sustainable business model sadly.

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By *icecouple561Couple  over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex


"And this right here is one thing I hate about flying - which I absolutely love to do.

The people you were sitting between were probably mortified by the situation, and wishing they were anywhere else.

I know that doesn't help you, but it's my experience.

Airline seats have got steadily smaller (on average) with a population (at least in this country) that is getting steadily bigger (on average). And people don't necessarily have the money to pay out for an extra seat when they travel. Not only that, but announcing to the person who demands you give up the extra seat - you have paid for - that you=ve bought two because you aren't comfortable in one (they hear "I'm too fat for a single seat") can be humiliating, especially when they get cranky because they believe they should be able to sit their with their travelling companion next to them.

The answer? Add in some larger seats. But they'd likely end up booked by people who fit perfectly well in a regular seat but want the extra room.

We book those seats because Mr N is tall.

Mr KC is 6ft 4 but he sits in the regular seats. Mainly because they won't let wheelchair users to sit in the extra leg room seats (which are usually near the exit/over the wing). We have to sit where we're told. Some airlines insist I sit in the window seat specifically, and only at the back. Which is a bugger when it's a sky-link tunnel to board and you have to be aisle-seat wrestled from front to back. Aisle-seats are an exquisite sort of torture

Pffft. You wheely people with your gripes. Suck it up and do as you're told. And don't even think about getting off the plane in an emergency please

(Please please don't tell me off NC... I'm only being sarky cos I know exactly where Mrs KC is coming from and have been there and she knows I don't mean it and why did you give me the shovel back in the first place )

I'm not going to tell you off .

However the seats we book are available for everyone except KC and I'm genuinely sorry for that. What am I to do?

Thanks

I agree entirely. Literally the only answer is higher prices across the board, fewer, larger and bigger leg room seats. I doubt in this day and age that's a sustainable business model sadly."

Me too. We want cheap air travel but we don't want cheap air travel

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West

I want to charge extra to the people who refuse to follow the crew's instructions and who get tanked up and shout and disrupt everyone else. Far greater a disturbance to my flying history than anything else (bar absent airport assistance).

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By *ulieAndBeefCouple  over a year ago

Manchester-ish

There's a whole list of people not allowed to sit in those seats unfortunately. It's because those sitting there need to be able to open the exit in the event of an emergency. I don't think they should charge a premium for them but it seems to be the way it is now.

J

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By *TG3Man  over a year ago

Dorchester


"I got a holiday later this year but I’m praying my on-board experience will be different from my last; I was seated between two individuals who were both spilling into my seat space, let’s just say it was VERY cramped.

So, how should airlines resolve/prevent a dilemma for other passengers? Should airlines install larger seats/space? Should larger folks pay more?"

they can but they choose not to....... Its all about money

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"There's a whole list of people not allowed to sit in those seats unfortunately. It's because those sitting there need to be able to open the exit in the event of an emergency. I don't think they should charge a premium for them but it seems to be the way it is now.

J"

I get that. It's just that if disabled people have to sit in certain seats, yet (in my case), I am also fat, if they DID provide extra sized seats for fat people, it's very likely I'd actually be barred from sitting in them anyway!

I don't think I'm fat enough to piss off the person next to me, but I'll be heading to Spain on my own soon, so I'll see what happens.

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By *icecouple561Couple  over a year ago
Forum Mod

East Sussex

I want to charge extra to the woman sitting next to me last year who stowed her overhead bag then kept getting up and taking things out, putting them back then taking them out again but mostly because she opened a packet of garlic Lays

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By *ortyairCouple  over a year ago

Wallasey

If people cannot put up with a little discomfort for a time, without calling out others for size, disability, whatever, you are just mean spirited.

Bet you wouldn't complain being sandwiched between two bigger peeps if you were bumping uglies with them.

You could solve this by learning to fly, the pilots have single seats...big ones xxx

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London


"I've experienced the looks (that would kill) as I am trundled past the already -seated people. People who can see it's now past the planned departure time because of the fact the airport didn't board me sooner. I've had people refuse to sit down briefly to allow the assistance team to come and actually assist. I've heard cabin crew complaining that my continued presence at the end of a flight is stopping them getting home (which it is) and that they are not getting paid to remain onboard. But apparently policy is that they have to. It's not my fault that pre-booked assistance doesn't turn up.

See the Twitter feed and multiple news reports from the BBC's Frank Gardner, who has frequently experienced the lack of assistance and general poor attitudes of others travelling.

Wanting to get to Amsterdam or Tenerife makes people really, really selfish, is what I've learned."

It’s unfortunate you’ve experienced that. I read a recent story of British Airways damaging a presenters wheelchair (which they reimbursed for) but it’s usually the case when people lack any level of empathy because they do not understand nor even take a moment to.

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By *otSoPoshWoman  over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon


"There's a whole list of people not allowed to sit in those seats unfortunately. It's because those sitting there need to be able to open the exit in the event of an emergency. I don't think they should charge a premium for them but it seems to be the way it is now.

J"

I think we should go back to the days of seats being allocated at check in, with a person, at the airport. But I'm very, very old and us old folk don't like the new fangled ways of doing things

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"I've experienced the looks (that would kill) as I am trundled past the already -seated people. People who can see it's now past the planned departure time because of the fact the airport didn't board me sooner. I've had people refuse to sit down briefly to allow the assistance team to come and actually assist. I've heard cabin crew complaining that my continued presence at the end of a flight is stopping them getting home (which it is) and that they are not getting paid to remain onboard. But apparently policy is that they have to. It's not my fault that pre-booked assistance doesn't turn up.

See the Twitter feed and multiple news reports from the BBC's Frank Gardner, who has frequently experienced the lack of assistance and general poor attitudes of others travelling.

Wanting to get to Amsterdam or Tenerife makes people really, really selfish, is what I've learned.

It’s unfortunate you’ve experienced that. I read a recent story of British Airways damaging a presenters wheelchair (which they reimbursed for) but it’s usually the case when people lack any level of empathy because they do not understand nor even take a moment to."

Damage to a wheelchair is like smashing the legs of an able bodied person as they disembark. That wheelchair user will be stranded. Most wheelchairs like that are custom made for the individual and have lead times of many weeks/months. How do they continue on their holiday or to do their work without their wheelchair? If the airline breaks my wheelchair on my next flight, I'm fucked. I'm travelling alone and have to get myself from Málaga to Granada and later, from Granada to Córdoba. If I don't have my chair, I will be totally unable to do any of that and will have to go straight home and be pushed back to my car by airport staff. At home, I will potentially have no option until a new wheelchair can be made for me. The sort of NHS folding chairs that might be offered in the interim do not allow for independence, you'd need to be pushed by someone all the time. I'd be unable to work, unable to take my child to school etc. Some wheelchair user's lives would be at risk because their chair might be specifically designed to keep them in a specific position to enable them to breathe properly or to avoid pressure sores which could get infected and cause serious health implications.

But a bit of compensation is nice, I suppose.

It's that serious for wheelchair users, honestly. I can't see HOW wheelchairs get so badly damaged because generally, we take them right up to the plane and they are then put directly into the hold. The only way they get broken is by airport staff throwing them on/off or by placing them inappropriately in the hold, thus allowing other heavy items to fall on them or they stack suitcases on top of them. They shouldn't stow wheelchairs like that.

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London


"If people cannot put up with a little discomfort for a time, without calling out others for size, disability, whatever, you are just mean spirited.

Bet you wouldn't complain being sandwiched between two bigger peeps if you were bumping uglies with them.

You could solve this by learning to fly, the pilots have single seats...big ones xxx"

I can only share my experience but it was highly frustrating trying to enjoy my meal when the elbow of my neighbour was hovering in front of my chest. I couldn’t use my left hand because my forearm would’ve clashed with the back of his right arm.

But yeah maybe I’ll spend £90,000 to avoid this happening in the future

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By *otSoPoshWoman  over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon


"If people cannot put up with a little discomfort for a time, without calling out others for size, disability, whatever, you are just mean spirited.

Bet you wouldn't complain being sandwiched between two bigger peeps if you were bumping uglies with them.

You could solve this by learning to fly, the pilots have single seats...big ones xxx

I can only share my experience but it was highly frustrating trying to enjoy my meal when the elbow of my neighbour was hovering in front of my chest. I couldn’t use my left hand because my forearm would’ve clashed with the back of his right arm.

But yeah maybe I’ll spend £90,000 to avoid this happening in the future "

Did you by any chance actually say anything at the time? Because chances are he would have attempted to alter his behaviour.

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By *aucasian GhandiMan  over a year ago

from my dad's left nut (Warwick)


"Go to Skeggy

SO bracing!"

Only in winter months

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By *ate_B OP   Man  over a year ago

London


"If people cannot put up with a little discomfort for a time, without calling out others for size, disability, whatever, you are just mean spirited.

Bet you wouldn't complain being sandwiched between two bigger peeps if you were bumping uglies with them.

You could solve this by learning to fly, the pilots have single seats...big ones xxx

I can only share my experience but it was highly frustrating trying to enjoy my meal when the elbow of my neighbour was hovering in front of my chest. I couldn’t use my left hand because my forearm would’ve clashed with the back of his right arm.

But yeah maybe I’ll spend £90,000 to avoid this happening in the future

Did you by any chance actually say anything at the time? Because chances are he would have attempted to alter his behaviour.

"

Wish I did. It was the first I encountered that and didn’t know how to approach and given there was another 4hrs of flying I kept my mouth closed (more fool me). I was 17st and very conscious of my weight but came down to 13st, guess I didn’t wanna have the guy feel bad

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By *ortyairCouple  over a year ago

Wallasey


"If people cannot put up with a little discomfort for a time, without calling out others for size, disability, whatever, you are just mean spirited.

Bet you wouldn't complain being sandwiched between two bigger peeps if you were bumping uglies with them.

You could solve this by learning to fly, the pilots have single seats...big ones xxx

I can only share my experience but it was highly frustrating trying to enjoy my meal when the elbow of my neighbour was hovering in front of my chest. I couldn’t use my left hand because my forearm would’ve clashed with the back of his right arm.

But yeah maybe I’ll spend £90,000 to avoid this happening in the future "

Just a suggestion x

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By *otSoPoshWoman  over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon


"If people cannot put up with a little discomfort for a time, without calling out others for size, disability, whatever, you are just mean spirited.

Bet you wouldn't complain being sandwiched between two bigger peeps if you were bumping uglies with them.

You could solve this by learning to fly, the pilots have single seats...big ones xxx

I can only share my experience but it was highly frustrating trying to enjoy my meal when the elbow of my neighbour was hovering in front of my chest. I couldn’t use my left hand because my forearm would’ve clashed with the back of his right arm.

But yeah maybe I’ll spend £90,000 to avoid this happening in the future

Did you by any chance actually say anything at the time? Because chances are he would have attempted to alter his behaviour.

Wish I did. It was the first I encountered that and didn’t know how to approach and given there was another 4hrs of flying I kept my mouth closed (more fool me). I was 17st and very conscious of my weight but came down to 13st, guess I didn’t wanna have the guy feel bad "

Noble of you.

A simple "could you possibly move your elbow over a bit" would likely have not offended.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

Given the choice of sitting me next to a fat bloke or sitting me next to the guy who tapped his fkin belt buckle all the way home from Barcelona and I'll take the fat bloke

2hr30m is a fkin long time to listen to finger tapping

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

I’m sure I’ll be slammed for this but there is a demand for the low-cost airlines, is there not?

Before they came along, you could either afford to take a flight or you couldn’t but all the airlines had standard-sized seats that anyone could fit into and a level of service by which they were judged. Airports were better able to cope with passengers’ requests for assistance and so on because they charged a certain rate in landing fees.

As far as I know, these national carriers and ‘old school’ airlines haven’t changed much but, perhaps, their tickets cost more and it’s for a reason, isn’t it?

Many airports, now, have dedicated terminals for low-cost airlines that fits the level of service these airlines are willing to pay in landing fees in order to meet their ticket price range.

As with anything else, the option is there and the choice is available. We can’t simply expect a lower cost version of a service to offer the same standards as those that have charged more and paid more in their landing fees.

M

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By *entleman_spyMan  over a year ago

nearby

People should be charged the same as baggage...

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By *abs..Woman  over a year ago

..


"I got a holiday later this year but I’m praying my on-board experience will be different from my last; I was seated between two individuals who were both spilling into my seat space, let’s just say it was VERY cramped.

So, how should airlines resolve/prevent a dilemma for other passengers? Should airlines install larger seats/space? Should larger folks pay more?

Yes, we should implement discriminatory policies and make fat people pay more.

Actually, men tend to be bigger than women and also generally weigh more (on average), so we should charge men more.

Disabled people take fucking ages to be boarded by the assistance people too, so while we're at it, let's stop disabled people taking flights because it's inconvenient to the people who have to wait.

Can you see the issue?

The solution is not to punish people for being people. The solution is for Mr O'Leary, et.al. to stop the "pile 'em high and cheap" approach. Which will cost EVERYONE more. "

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago

Was it two passengers loving their curves?

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"I got a holiday later this year but I’m praying my on-board experience will be different from my last; I was seated between two individuals who were both spilling into my seat space, let’s just say it was VERY cramped.

So, how should airlines resolve/prevent a dilemma for other passengers? Should airlines install larger seats/space? Should larger folks pay more?"

There are some possibly good long term solutions. However I disagree with advice of you needing to whisk extra money for 1st class or comfort seat just to be able to enjoy the space you already paid for if you are not encroaching anyone's space. You aren't the one causing the discomfort. And why we should have less understanding for your wallet capacity than other people? Isn't it that certain airlines ask you to book extra seat if you can't fit in? You can but for peace of mind and not arguing - yes you can spend that extra money. But I don't think it's your responsibility. You aren't asking for more than what you paid for.

T

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"I’m sure I’ll be slammed for this but there is a demand for the low-cost airlines, is there not?

Before they came along, you could either afford to take a flight or you couldn’t but all the airlines had standard-sized seats that anyone could fit into and a level of service by which they were judged. Airports were better able to cope with passengers’ requests for assistance and so on because they charged a certain rate in landing fees.

As far as I know, these national carriers and ‘old school’ airlines haven’t changed much but, perhaps, their tickets cost more and it’s for a reason, isn’t it?

Many airports, now, have dedicated terminals for low-cost airlines that fits the level of service these airlines are willing to pay in landing fees in order to meet their ticket price range.

As with anything else, the option is there and the choice is available. We can’t simply expect a lower cost version of a service to offer the same standards as those that have charged more and paid more in their landing fees.

M"

Disability assistance at airports doesn't work like that, Miles. A ground handling company is appointed by airports (whole airports, not terminal to terminal) and it is completely independent of the airlines. The same assistance provider will sit you in your first class Emirates flight as will seat me on my steerage seat on EasyJet.

Manchester is the airport we use most frequently and British Airways operates out of the same terminal that Ryanair operates out of (T3)! It's just that Ryanair flights don't generally get the sky bridge, the passengers have to walk out and use steps or be bussed out, while BA probably get the gates closest to the main terminal. easyJet and Emirates both use T1 too.

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By (user no longer on site)  over a year ago


"I’m sure I’ll be slammed for this but there is a demand for the low-cost airlines, is there not?

Before they came along, you could either afford to take a flight or you couldn’t but all the airlines had standard-sized seats that anyone could fit into and a level of service by which they were judged. Airports were better able to cope with passengers’ requests for assistance and so on because they charged a certain rate in landing fees.

As far as I know, these national carriers and ‘old school’ airlines haven’t changed much but, perhaps, their tickets cost more and it’s for a reason, isn’t it?

Many airports, now, have dedicated terminals for low-cost airlines that fits the level of service these airlines are willing to pay in landing fees in order to meet their ticket price range.

As with anything else, the option is there and the choice is available. We can’t simply expect a lower cost version of a service to offer the same standards as those that have charged more and paid more in their landing fees.

M

Disability assistance at airports doesn't work like that, Miles. A ground handling company is appointed by airports (whole airports, not terminal to terminal) and it is completely independent of the airlines. The same assistance provider will sit you in your first class Emirates flight as will seat me on my steerage seat on EasyJet.

Manchester is the airport we use most frequently and British Airways operates out of the same terminal that Ryanair operates out of (T3)! It's just that Ryanair flights don't generally get the sky bridge, the passengers have to walk out and use steps or be bussed out, while BA probably get the gates closest to the main terminal. easyJet and Emirates both use T1 too. "

I think that rather demonstrates my point. As you’ve mentioned Emirates and BA, I’ll use them as an example. They pay a heftier landing fee, hence their access to a sky bridge and gates closer to the terminal.

Manchester and European airports may be more sensitive to appearing to differentiate but many new airports in other regions of the World have no such qualms. Some even name their low-cost carrier terminal “Budget Terminal” and are clearly more basic than their regular terminals.

M

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By *inky_couple2020Couple  over a year ago

North West


"I’m sure I’ll be slammed for this but there is a demand for the low-cost airlines, is there not?

Before they came along, you could either afford to take a flight or you couldn’t but all the airlines had standard-sized seats that anyone could fit into and a level of service by which they were judged. Airports were better able to cope with passengers’ requests for assistance and so on because they charged a certain rate in landing fees.

As far as I know, these national carriers and ‘old school’ airlines haven’t changed much but, perhaps, their tickets cost more and it’s for a reason, isn’t it?

Many airports, now, have dedicated terminals for low-cost airlines that fits the level of service these airlines are willing to pay in landing fees in order to meet their ticket price range.

As with anything else, the option is there and the choice is available. We can’t simply expect a lower cost version of a service to offer the same standards as those that have charged more and paid more in their landing fees.

M

Disability assistance at airports doesn't work like that, Miles. A ground handling company is appointed by airports (whole airports, not terminal to terminal) and it is completely independent of the airlines. The same assistance provider will sit you in your first class Emirates flight as will seat me on my steerage seat on EasyJet.

Manchester is the airport we use most frequently and British Airways operates out of the same terminal that Ryanair operates out of (T3)! It's just that Ryanair flights don't generally get the sky bridge, the passengers have to walk out and use steps or be bussed out, while BA probably get the gates closest to the main terminal. easyJet and Emirates both use T1 too.

I think that rather demonstrates my point. As you’ve mentioned Emirates and BA, I’ll use them as an example. They pay a heftier landing fee, hence their access to a sky bridge and gates closer to the terminal.

Manchester and European airports may be more sensitive to appearing to differentiate but many new airports in other regions of the World have no such qualms. Some even name their low-cost carrier terminal “Budget Terminal” and are clearly more basic than their regular terminals.

M"

Everything I've mentioned occured in UK or European airports. I've never left the continent (Tenerife is a weird one, granted).

A sky bridge is irrelevant to me as someone needing assistance because actually, that can make life harder unless the airline allows wheelies to sit at the front. Either I have to be aisle-chaired all the way to the back or they bypass the sky bridge and offload/onboard via the ambulift at the back.

Being disabled is possibly the most equalising of things. Airport assistance is identical, whether you pay thousands of pounds to travel in the height of luxury, or €20 one way with Mr O'Leary's lot. This I have witnessed when people travelling with higher budget airlines have found themselves dumped in the same corridors and doorways of the airport apron!

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