Flying can be stressful, but it’s even more complicated for people who are obese and feel uncomfortable in confined spaces like airplane seats. One Redditor, aware of their size, had bought two seats to ensure they had enough room for themselves on a flight.
However, things took a turn when a couple noticed the empty seat next to the Redditor and decided to sit there, despite the fact that the seat was meant for the Redditor’s comfort.
When the Redditor politely asked the couple to respect their seat, the situation quickly escalated, leading to the involvement of a flight attendant. The couple’s response, including hurtful comments, left the Redditor wondering if they overstepped by asking them to leave.
Was it wrong for the Redditor to demand the seat back, or was the couple’s behavior inappropriate? Keep reading to find out how this situation played out.
A woman insists on keeping her second seat on a plane for comfort, leading to a confrontation with a couple who tries to take it
When someone buys two airplane seats because a single seat doesn’t offer enough space, that isn’t luxury, it’s reasonable accommodation. Many airlines explicitly allow (or require) this when a passenger can’t sit comfortably in one seat without encroaching on a neighbor’s space.
In the OP’s case, paying for a second seat was a proactive way to respect other passengers’ comfort and ensure his own safety and dignity. That intent aligns with stated airline policies for “customers needing extra seating.”
When another passenger tried to take that paid‑for seat, the OP’s discomfort wasn’t just about physical squeeze. It was about violating the terms under which the seat was bought, a breach of boundary and respect. The request to reclaim that space was consistent with airline guidelines.
What the data and policy say
According to the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), many airlines require additional seats when a passenger cannot fit properly, for example when both armrests cannot be lowered or the seatbelt doesn’t fit.
The width of standard economy seats on many aircraft is around 17‑18 inches.
Recent reporting shows airlines continue to enforce these “extra seat” requirements, acknowledging that seat sizes often don’t match the diversity of passenger body sizes. (The Guardian)
Under these policies, once a passenger buys a second seat, that seat becomes part of their reservation. Other passengers do not have the right to claim it even if it appears empty. (Help Center | Southwest Airlines)
The emotional and social dimension
For many plus‑size travelers, booking a second seat is also about dignity. Overlapping into a neighboring seat can trigger embarrassment, anxiety, and real psychological discomfort.
Standard‑size seats and tight spacing in airplanes weren’t built for everyone. When airlines enforce extra‑seat rules but fellow passengers don’t honor those seats, it compounds weight‑related stigma. (The Guardian)
Denying a person the extra space they legitimately paid for can feel like erasure as if their body and right to comfort are being discounted. That sense of invalidation can lead to shame, emotional distress, or avoidance of travel altogether.
Some advocacy groups have called on airlines to adopt consistent, transparent policies to reduce such humiliation. (Obesity Action Coalition)
Given what’s documented about airline seat‑size standards, “extra seat” policies, and the purpose behind buying two seats, the OP was fully justified in insisting the seat remain his. It wasn’t entitlement; it was fairness.
When others tried to take that seat, they ignored not only the paid ticket, but the unspoken agreement of respect and personal space. The OP’s request and, when needed, calling a flight attendant, was reasonable, even necessary.
Take a look at the comments from fellow users:
This group strongly supported OP, asserting that they paid for the seat and had every right to keep it
These users agreed with OP’s actions
These commenters focused on the fact that OP was simply following the rules and was entitled to their space
This group advised OP to stay firm and not let the entitled couple make them feel bad
So, was the woman justified in standing her ground, or did she overreact? Should people be more mindful of others’ needs in public spaces like planes? Share your thoughts below!
