I think that’s the assumption because the airlines singled out overweight passengers. They didn’t mention long legs. It might be so, but there has been a case of it. Haven’t seen it…if it has happened.

@ Carla

If someone were 6′7 and 300lbs they would not have to pay for two seats UNLESS they spilled over onto another seat.

People are arguing that United could simply widen the seats to accomodate larger passengers, but wouldn’t that mean that less people would fit onto a plane? If less people go onto one plane, the prices will obviously go up. The average traveller would have to pay MORE to compensate.

It’s simple utilitarianism because it’s the best possible solution to all concerned. To complain that it’s not fair to larger people is selfish is selfish in itself.

I’m a very tall person and am prepared to pay extra if my legs make someone else’s trip uncomfortable.

My two cents.

That’s a good point. I’d hate to be the person who has to approach a customer and tell them they have to pay an extra fare. I’m also interested in knowing when this takes place. Before or after boarding? When does that person pay for the second fare?

I dont see how they are going to enforce this.

That’s a possibility. Most people just go with the lowest fare on the route. We’ll see if United actual profits much from this.

I’m assuming it would mean “larger” passengers pay for and get two seat next to each other giving them ample room. Would be ridiculous otherwise to charge double fair, in my view.

Seems like the consensus so far.

@Venus

It is a tough situation. Is there a great way to make sure both parties (larger paasenger and person seated next to them) are both happy and comfortable? Probably nothing ideal. Bigger seats on all flights wuld be one solution, but that means either less profit or higher fares for all.

That said, I am also glad the airlines are addressing this issue one way or the other because as a relatively slender/small person I have been stuck in one too many uncomfortable flights next to someone who took up half my seat without the slightest hint of concern. I have had people elbow me out of the way even, or fall asleep on me and the last time was on a 10 hr transatlantic flight. So, if this means I actually get to use my seat I am all for it.

I just wish there is a way to make this fair to most people but I don’t know if there is. Someone may always be left holding the short end of the stick.

Business class seats are often more costly than two coach seats, but that would be an interesting option. You present a tough call with someone who has health issues. What about people who are very tall? Legs?

@Pete Blakemore

Definitely a unusual PR stunt. I guess they’ll take any attention sent their way.

Pretty ridiculous really.

O’Leary Admits Spending A Penny Story Was A Stunt

On the first point, you deserve full access to that seat. True that yu also paid a full fare. It’s also true that RyanAir’s flight are usually shorter distances. I guess for a $40 flight a few more won’t hurt the consumer too much. Not sure it’s worth implementing the toilet policy though.

@Nadia

I’m interested to see if anyone will challenge the double fare in court. Probably not, but it wouldn’t be too shocking to see it. Ryan took a lot of bad press, but in the end passengers want the lowest fares and will still use them.

As for airlines like Ryan Air charging to use the bathroom, that is stupid. I mean..seriously????

1. As a passanger who paid for a full seat, I like this policy which will hopefully guarantee I get my full seat. It would be nice if there was a way in the future to charge the guy next to you for “spilling” over a little too much.

2. I have flown RyanAir for under $40 on flights from Venice to Barcelona, Barcelona to London-Porto-Paris. For $40, I can hold it. And if I really had to pee–I could pay 5 bucks for it. I would rather keep getting those ridiculously low fairs–and just time my bathroom breaks a little better.