OT: most accommodating airline

I'll have to take a short flight (to Chicago) next month. I haven't flown in years. Even though I've done well with my post-surgey loss, I'm still in the obese category. Any suggestions for "fat friendly" airlines that don't charge for two seats even if you fit in one, and don't try to humiliate you?

united.com and I didn't need a seat belt extender!!! If I fly Aircanada I do need one.

I have found that even within the same airline I've had different experiences with size of airplanes and the seats in them, and the attitude of the flight attendants. 

I used to pretend to fasten my seatbelt then put my jacket over me so that no one could see the belt didn't reach.  I finally have gotten to the point of just asking the attendant near my seat for an extender as soon as I board the plane.  Every time I've done that, they will discreetly bring me one and check on me throughout the flight to see if I need anything else.  I think if you're nice about things, they try to be nice back. 

My best advice - look at flights and then check out seatguru.com for the seat measurements and leg room, best seats with head space, etc.    Also - when you check in look at seat assignments and if they have some one seated next to you but there's another available seat without some one next to you, change your seat.  I've ended up with a whole row by myself before by doing that, and then there was no one to complain if my arm touched theirs on the arm rest.  ha!

Have fun in Chicago - I LOVE that city!!!!

Amy

I've used seat guru.  I also ordered my seat belt extender online.

I think Southwest is the one notorious for being rude!   I've never used them for that fact.
However, I don't know if any of them are considered "fat-friendly". Most flight attendants are fairly discreet if you just mention you need an extender.

On a bright note---I "borrowed" an extender from my usual airline probably about 10 years ago---I think I'll be able to return it to them when I fly in December. Here's hoping!!   

I have to say I think I have been very fortunate that I have never had to buy 2 seats for myself.  At 400+ pounds, I never had anyone complain that I am aware of.  I learned really quick to let them know at the counter that I needed an extender and it was either connected already or in the seat pocket waiting for me.  That was with every airline.  I even flew Southwest and never had an issue with them...although, I was ready for one every time because of their reputation about their attitude.

Now, I am happy to say, I do not need an extender and can fit in the smallest of airline seats...it won't be long before you will be there, too.  Have a great flight and fun trip.

I flew Frontier many times and told them I was a larger person and they told me when I got on the plane if there wasnt a coat area right there.  that means it had smaller seats onboard. (yes weird I know)  and to ask for a extender as I passed the flight attendant and they would descreatly bring one.     Funny thing is the first flight had a coat cabin and I didnt need an extender and the second didnt have one and I did need an extender.  They we very nice about it.

I used to love Frontier - are they still around?  Aren't they the ones that served warm chocolate chip cookies?  (I probably shouldn't mention that here...)

Otherwise, my favorite way to fly right now is with with Air Tran first class.   It's a very no-frills first class, so it isn't as expensive as many airlines' first class. But the seats are nice and big - I think they are the widest first class seats in the domestic flight biz.  I think Air Tran just recently got bought out, though...  

Seat guru is a great website, though.  I second (or third/fourth) the idea of checking them out before booking your flight.   You have to be sure you know the type of plane you are using, not just the name of the airline.  Different planes have differently sized seats.

I also bought a seat belt extension, just so I don't have to ask for it!  It's worked out great and no one has ever noticed me using it.  :D

Good luck - I know that flying can be a real emotional challenge when you are worried about size.  I'm right there with you.

I love Southwest airlines. I'm in the minority here, it would seem, but I'm not going to force someone to sit next to me and be squished. They didn't gain these 375 pounds. I did it all by myself. So, I buy two seats.

BUT.

Southwest ROCKS! I've never understood why people are so down on them - they are the only company that refunds your 2nd seat --- You buy two seats and if you call them after you take your flight and the flight wasn't full, they will REFUND YOU THE TICKET. I travel for business a few times per year and I've never had them not refund me. AND you get to pre-board. They are very discreet, give you a "Reserved" card for the seat next to yours and I ask for the extender when I get on.

I'm "only" 298 pounds now, but I'm leaving next week for a trip and I still bought 2 seats because I'm not sure I'd comfortably fit in one seat quite yet. My weight is all on my middle.

Sorry, but I am not going to kid myself, it is not comfortable for me or my fellow passengers and it's not fair to them.

I've had mine refunded everytime. But I only fly them when I don't have a choice. 

People are down on them  because they have been rude about it. They are extremely inconsistent with their policy, and ANYONE can call a fat person out.  I think that if you make it pass check-in and the first flight, the flight attendant on the 2nd flight on a different plane shouldn't threaten to throw you off unless you purchase another seat. Especially if there is a seat available to purchase at that point, you are entitled to get your money back anyway because the plane wasn't full. 

The three times that I have flown with them since their policy, I purchased the extra ticket at the time of ordering.  Each time, I got the money back. 

I wish they charge those big ass linebackers (huge men with broad shoulders).  They may have tiny hips, but their shoulders are in my seat everytime.  They are never charged, and I have had to sit sideways not to one of them.