Plus-size woman 'discriminated against' by airlines wants be given two extra seats for free
Rhiannon Ingle
One plus-size woman who has said she's been 'discriminated against' by airlines has started a petition to be given two extra seats for free.
The travel influencer, Jaelynn, has argued exactly why she believes she should be given a second and even a third seat on planes whilst jet-setting around the globed.
The woman is so passionate about the issue at hand that she's even gone as far as to call for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to amend its policy to better accommodate a more diverse range of passengers.
Advert
Jaelynn took to TikTok to explain the rationale behind the petition.
She stated: "You assume that this petition right here is solely about getting free seats for people of size.
"Let me clarify this petition is about ensuring that air travel is comfortable for everyone - regardless of their size."
The travel vlogger went on to outline that the petition applies to 'plus sized people, tall people, people with disabilities and so many more'.
"However, as a plus-size traveller myself," Jaelynn continued, "I'm speaking on behalf of myself and plus-size travellers everywhere who have also experienced discomfort and discrimination while traveling."
She added: "We are calling on the FAA to require that all airlines implement a clear customer size policy.
"This policy should include clear guidelines on accommodating larger passengers."
Jaelynn noted that 'travellers of size' can 'often face physical discomfort and health risks' when made to 'occupy only one seat on an airplane'.
"It's about creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for all," she concluded.
In another TikTok video, Jaelynn explained: "Let's just state facts. Plus-size travellers need more space, and many people agree that plane seats are too small even for the average size person.
"As a plus size traveller myself, I know how uncomfortable and unsafe it can be to squeeze into a tiny airplane seat."
She added: "We are not asking for special treatment or luxury accommodations.
"We simply want enough space to travel comfortably and safely without fear of being discriminated against because of our size.
"It's truly that simple."
That video in question has since clocked up over 940k views along with a whole series of subsequent follow-up clips receiving extremely high numbers.
Jaelynn has since received a fair bunch of comments slamming her demands in her comments section, with one TikTok user writing: "I’m sorry but no… If you need more than one seat then I’m afraid you pay."
A second posted: "I’m only 5'3 petite built, shall I get a discount on my seat? I hope you realise how ridiculous you are with this. Don’t demand special treatment."
She did, however, also receive a ton of support too.
One plus-size passenger shared their own similar experiences: "I was embarrassed the first time because the flight attendant made a loud comment, but the other times they were all very discreet and extremely nice."
Another viewer penned: "It's such a common sense requirement! Signed and shared!"
"Lovvvveeeee this," commented a final TikTok user, "everyone deserves to be comfortable traveling, and things have needed to change for a long time."