What can you do about being forced to sit next to a very large passenger?
My mum is up in arms about that fact that she sat next to a (very) obese gentleman on her flight causing sufficient discomfort for her to grab the cabin jumpseat in cruise.
The flight was a fully-booked shorthaul flight with BA from Heathrow.
Few airlines are willing to go the distance which for instance Southwest does with their customer of size policy, what can you do in this situation when it becomes unbearable?
Best Answer
It's a health and safety issue. Depending on the airline and jurisdiction, they may have a legal duty to ensure you are not injured by being squashed up. A few years back a woman travelling with Virgin Atlantic received compensation for just such an injury, so most airlines are at least aware of the liability.
As Nean says, report it to the cabin crew. Don't be tempted to discuss it with the obese passenger, because even if they promise to try to keep from squashing you, they might fall asleep and do it anyway.
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How do I stop people sitting next to me on a plane?
8 Ways to Avoid Being 'That Annoying Passenger' on a FlightWhat do you do when seated next to a fat person on a plane?
"When I'm seated next to a large passenger, I greet them with a smile," she says. "No matter how much of a squeeze, a positive and nonjudgmental attitude is important." A polite request can help, too.Can airlines restrain passengers?
The airline doesn't provide duct tape to crews, but they can use restraint cuffs if de-escalation tactics don't work and a passenger is a threat. \u201cPaired with our processes and systems, our flight attendants are empowered to use their judgment to ensure a safe environment for all,\u201d the airline said in a statement.How do you handle a disruptive passenger?
You can try to redirect the passenger's attention by asking them questions and engaging in a civil conversation. On the ground, this would give the subject of harassment the opportunity to get away. On a plane, the best you can do is divert the unruly passenger's attention and make them feel heard.Man Stands on 7 Hour Flight Because of Obese Passenger
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Answer 2
Find a different seat.
One way to do this is to bring cash. After you board, if you happen to be in a seat you don't like (e.g. because the person next to you is large), find a more preferable seat that seems to have a solo passenger in it, and make an attractive cash offer to the person who currently has that seat to switch with you. Be upfront with your reason for wanting to switch, as they will likely be suspicious otherwise.
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