This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Forget worrying about what you've packed in that suitcase you have to shell out a few extra bucks for; if you've packed on too many pounds and want to fly on United, you could be headed for shelling out a second seat's worth. The airline is now enforcing a policy that stipulates that "passengers who are unable to fit into a single seat; are unable to properly fasten their safety belt [using a single seatbelt extender; and/or] are unable to put the seat's armrests down, will be denied boarding unless they purchase an extra seat," according to cbs2. And, if there's no seat available--not an uncommon concern these days, as airlines are sending fewer, and generally full-to-capacity, flights in the air--you won't get to fly at all. If there's more of you to love, you may not love this rule, which applies to tickets purchased on or after March 4th, and applies to flights as of today. Of course, United says they are doing this because they want everyone to be happy:
Please understand that we care a great deal about all of our customers' well-being, and we have implemented this policy to help ensure that everyone's travel experiences with United are comfortable and pleasant.
"Pleasant" and "air travel" are infrequent playmates for many in recent years, with the subtraction of many on-board comforts on several major US airlines, and the addition of fees for things ranging from soft drinks to checked baggage. If you do wind up being asked to pony up for a second seat to accommodate your need for "extra space," however, there is one small consolation: Two seats means twice the checked baggage allowance. You'll need something to store your pride in, after all.
United operates flights locally out of LAX, Burbank, and John Wayne airports.
