25-year-old influencer Jaelynn Chaney is advocating for overweight passengers to receive free extra seats on airplanes. She claims to be working with a U.S. Senator’s team and has launched a petition with over 38,000 signatures urging the FAA and airlines to ensure comfortable travel for plus-size individuals.
Chaney has spoken about experiencing discrimination while flying and calls for better airline policies, including staff training and accessible screening tools. She also wants refunds for those forced to buy additional seats themselves.
Southwest Airlines already has a “Customer of Size” policy offering free extra seats based on seat encroachment rather than weight, but it has drawn both praise and criticism. Some argue it’s a fair move, while others see it as giving special treatment.
Critics, including fitness expert Josh Nabbie, argue that all passengers face discomfort and should adapt to their needs individually. Rising U.S. obesity rates add complexity to the debate on inclusive air travel.
