Plus-size influencer demands free seats, protection for larger airline passengers

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A plus-size travel, fashion and lifestyle content creator has made it her mission to get free seats, protection and, overall, better accommodations for larger airline passengers.

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Jae’lynn Chaney, a social media influencer and advocate for people of all sizes and abilities from Vancouver, Wash., started a Change.org petition called “Demand for the FAA to Protect Plus-Sized Customers.”

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Chaney is appealing to airlines, the Federal Aviation Administration, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Transportation Security Administration to change their mindset and ensure plus-sized passengers can fly without issues or discrimination.

Chaney kicked off the petition claiming she and her fiancé were subjected to discrimination on a recent flight from Pasco, Wash., to Denver, explaining that other passengers would not sit next to them and dished out “hateful comments” and “disapproving looks” during the two-hour trip.

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She also recounted another time she felt discriminated against while flying, explaining that her experiences in the sky caused her “pain and vulnerability” and that the airlines should consider larger travellers during flights.

“Unfortunately, plus-size passengers often experience discomfort and discrimination when flying,” she wrote. “The lack of a uniform customer-of-size airline policy is unacceptable and must be addressed.”

She also urged the FAA to “implement a clear customer-of-size policy that prioritizes the comfort and well-being of all passengers” to all airlines and provide “larger seats, seat belt extenders, and alternative seating arrangements.”

Chaney suggested that additional seats should be made accessible – no charge.

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“All plus-size passengers should be provided with an extra free seat, or even two or three seats depending on their size, to accommodate their needs and ensure their comfort during the flight.”

Chaney argues that planes should also have for larger-sized bathrooms, specifically, “at least one wheelchair accessible restroom.”

As for TSA screenings, they should also “implement clear guidelines” for plus-sized travellers and provide sensitivity training for agents so they can “respectfully interact with plus-size travelers,” as well as “accessible screening equipment.”

Chaney has long been posting about her plus-size travel trials and tribulations on social media and shared her petition with fans and followers.

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Chaney’s petition, which list a handful of policies she believes should be implemented or updated, surpassed its original goal of 5,000 and now has just over 6,000 of its new 7,500 goal.

“By implementing these requirements, airlines will create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all passengers, regardless of their size,” she concluded.

“It’s time for the airline industry to take a stand and commit to creating a more inclusive and accommodating environment for all passengers.”