United Airlines Charges Extra for "Larger" Customers

by Ryan Halvorson

Making News:

United Airlines passengers who do not meet specific size limits may be forced to shell out a bit more cash—or remain grounded, according to information posted on the company’s website. The new requirements were implemented to enhance “the comfort and well-being of all customers aboard United flights.” The website states that passengers must be able to

fit into a single seat in the ticketed cabin;
properly buckle the seatbelt using a single seatbelt extender; and
put the seat’s armrests down when seated.

A United customer who cannot meet the requirements will be given a few options, depending upon seating availability. If there are available seats on the purchased flight, the passenger will be relocated next to an empty seat. If no seating is available, the passenger will be required to “purchase an upgrade to a cabin with available seats that address the above-listed scenarios or change his or her ticket to the next available flight and purchase a second seat in addition to the one already purchased.” Customers who do not meet the criteria and choose not to purchase an extra seat will be barred from boarding.

What are your thoughts on this policy change? Send your responses to rhalvorson@ideafit.com.

For more information on United Airlines’ policy, visit www.united.com.