Purchasing a second seat in advance of your travel date will ensure you receive the same level of service on all of your flights and eliminate any possible travel disruptions. Click here to find a Prior to your flight, try to get the details of the aircraft you'll be flying in. If a seat beat extender is not enough, an extra seat may be needed for your comfort. MSRP: $89.99. An extender allows an obese adult to buckle up in situations where the belt is otherwise too short to go around their body. I like to ask for the extender as soon as I board while everyone is still stowing their carry-on and getting settled, said Luk, whos had to use an extender since her early 40s. Get started here. Please enter your Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan number or select another option to look up your reservation. The exact length of seat belts. The miles earned for the extra ticket should appear in the Airline Activity section of your MileagePlus account with the description Extra Seat Credit. If you dont automatically receive your mileage credit, you can request the missing miles by providing the ticket number for the extra seat using the MileagePlus contact form. In April 2000, NHTSA received a petition for rulemaking requesting that the agency amend its safety standards to require that vehicle manufacturers either offer consumers the option of longer seat belts on new vehicles or make seat belt extenders available for purchase. As aforementioned, an airplane seat extender is an extra piece that adds length to the standard seatbelt. Refunds must be requested within 90 days of travel. Plus-size blogger Jae'lynn Chaney recently started a Change.org petition to get the FAA to change its policies when it comes to those "customers of size. The flight attendants avail themselves to customers upon request. Do not attach extender to buckle side of seatbelt or use 12 Inch Bolt-in . Consequently, the carry-on allowance isnt doubled. Yes. This is another basic type of airplane seatbelt extension suitable for specific airlines. 100+ bought in past week. You can also ask a crew member for assistance. A seat belt extender is an extra piece that goes between the ends (male and female) of a standard seat belt to provide more room by adding a different length to it. For larger sized drivers or passengers that need universal aftermarket seat belt extenders to extend their factory seatbelts that just don't fit. The airplane seat belt extenders were initially designed for obese and oversized people to find the comfort they wanted, especially in those long transoceanic flights. Things usually move relatively slow when people are boarding and trying to find space for their luggage. The belts can extend the airline seat belt up to 32 inches. Checked bag allowances are determined by the number of seats purchased. Your email address will not be published. If Airplane Seat Belts Don't Fit You, Here's How To Get An Extender If it is determined onboard that you require a second seat, you will need to deplane and rebook two seats on the next available flight. It may look like an innocuous piece of metal and webbing to some, but asking for it can trigger feelings experienced during past trauma and bullying around weight, Dragon said. Instead of focusing on your body, turn your mind to your trip., See if larger people are included in the pictures, she said. This can feel like a difficult task especially the first time (more on how to navigate that in a second). For additional information, please contact Delta Sales Support or Delta Reservations for assistance. Travelers appreciate: Past users of the belt say it provides stress-free travel and it's easy enough to store in a carry-on bag. For the passengers seat use ADT and for the additional seat(s) use OTS or whatever PTC the GDS requires. Using an older or non-compatible browser may result in a less than desirable user experience. Simply provide the name on the ticket, travel dates, flight information and ticket number. However, the FAA is not clear about what constitutes significant interference of a seatbelt extender. You may instead choose to buy a ticket for United First, United Business or United Polaris business class, or pay for an upgrade to a premium cabin if those seats are available. Superior(R) Automotive manufactures the highest-quality, OEM style replacement seat belts, seat belt extension kits and vehicle related safety products. Also, the armrests do not rise in row 6 on 737 & E175 aircraft, seat 1A on Q400 aircraft, and row 1 on CRJ 200 & 700 aircraft. Do you have the link for the extender that worked on the 737-800? 12" Seat Belt Extender, Bolt-In: Replacement Seat Belts However, talk to the gate agents or the airline before boarding. Only one seatbelt extension may be used, and only seatbelt extensions provided by Southwest Airlines are approved for use onboard our aircraft. It is inconvenient to have to ask for one, and some people might find it embarrassing. 08:14 PM. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. It includes one black extender, which is compatible with most airlines' seat belts except for Southwest, and one blue extender that should work with Southwest planes. Here's a summary of the latest airline policies. Emergency exit row seats do not have moveable armrests and seat belt extensions are not permitted in the exit row. With different seat belt setups for different airplanes, it may seem easy in theory, but it may be complex in practice. We live in a fatphobic culture where people discriminate and hold prejudice against people in larger bodies. This video will explain how to consider length when shop. Other air companies such as American Airlines require travelers to purchase an extra seat. However, a seatbelt extension is available to any passenger who requires one. by Meg Kate, Plus Size Flight Tips From A Pilots Wife, 5 Questions To Ask Yourself When Youre Looking For A Plus Size Flight Outfit. Currently, economy seats on major airlines are anywhere from 16 to almost 18 inches in width for air passengers. Boeng 737-800 Seat Belt Extender - Southwest Airlines Community I didn't know you could use your own Once onboard the aircraft, if necessary, please request a seatbelt extension from our Flight Attendant. With many online sites, buying airplane seat extenders is very easy despite where you are. Can You Use A Seatbelt Extender On An Extra Legroom Seat? When you're browsing seat belt extenders online, the companies should indicate which airlines are compatible with a particular product. We strive to best serve our customers' unique needs by providing a safe and comfortable flight for all passengers. NAMEComplete check-in for your trip. . Notice indicator that this external link may not follow the same accessibility or privacy policies as Alaska Airlines. Come with U.S. News on a tour of L'Ermitage Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles. A seat belt extension can be requested from cabin crew when boarding the flight and cannot be requested in advance. Like in the case of Southwest Airlines, a customer is only allowed to use a Southwest seatbelt extender that is provided and approved by the airline. If the extender you need costs more than one sent back for exchange, we will contact you about processing payment for the difference. Large-sized and overweight people who have problems fitting the standard seat belt and feel embarrassed to ask for an extender. Its the planes job to fit you, not the other way around. The stigma surrounding seatbelt extenders fills most people with dread and as a result, plus size passengers will often take then own (unregulated) seat belt extenders on a flight or hide the fact that their belt doesn't fit. It may be surprisingly tricky to determine how to use your extender. Can you tell me where on Amazon you got the extender for the new planes. Please contact your GDS Help Desk if you need assistance. Its important to check compliance rules before purchasing or packing anything. When requesting an extender, do not focus on the embarrassment but on your safety. We have to consider your safety and comfort if you require an extra seat as well as that of your family member, particularly in the event of an emergency. There is also no guarantee that you will be allowed to use it on the plane. However, I havent been enjoying traveling so much lately due to my body size. Travelers who do need seat belt extenders should keep in mind that some airlines have policies about where customers can sit. If your flights do depart with empty seats, our second seat refund policy is very simple and the turnaround time for your refund is minimal. An airplane seat extender was initially designed to help add an extra length. Cruise insurance can protect your investment in the event of cancellations, delays, lost luggage and more. Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 12141(2), specifically excludes airline travel. If you dont buy an extra seat in advance, you may have to do so on the day of departure for the fare level available on the day of departure. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. Any traveler who cannot comfortably fit within one seat with the armrests in the down position is required to purchase a second seat, even when traveling with a family member in a nearby seat. To ensure you are both able to travel on the same flight, we strongly recommend purchasing a second seat for each traveler who requires one. Type A is designed for the universal seat belt that most airlines use about 95% of airplane seat belts are manufactured by the Arizona-based AmSafe. Rules and Restrictions Explained, AirPods and Air Travel: Rules, Regulations, and Best Practices, How to Choose the Safest Seat on a Plane: Expert Tips, The Reasons Why Some Passengers Clap When the Plane Lands, Why You Have to Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode When Flying, Why Your Feet Swell When You Fly (11 Prevention Measures), The Exit Row Seat Dilemma: To Recline or Not to Recline, Ask the flight attendant as soon as you step on the plane, Ask a flight attendant once you are seated and they begin their checks, Be one of the first or last on the plane when boarding. Check with the airline you're flying on to learn more about its customer of size policies. Southwest aircraft uses a different type of seat belt mechanism so its extenders are custom (but you can still find those for sale online, too). The following information is how long an airlines seat belts are on average, so keep in mind that it can vary depending on the type of aircraft you are flying on. In contrast, the average size of women is a size 16, according to a study in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education. Give her a destination with a robust history or a beach, and she'll be right there. If you encounter someone who isnt, shared some recommendations for getting through the process. . by Meg Kate, What To Expect When Youre Travelling Through France By Tegan Wylie, 20 Fearless Plus Size Flying Tips by Jess Riley. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has confirmed that airlines are not required by law to provide additional seating or an upgrade if additional space is required for a passenger. Airlines such as Southwest and Alaska will refund your ticket after travel if you purchase a second seat. Most seat belt extenders are universal. Body image is a tough struggle, especially when systemic fatphobia is in the picture, and professional help is often needed. 2019 Hello You Designs. If thinking about all of this is stressful, thats understandable. These belts are designed for use by vehicle occupants only and not for tethering down material items to seats. Regardless of the actual additional length the extension provides, if you do not meet the first criteria listed above when using the extension provided on your flight, it will be necessary for you to purchase an additional seat or an upgrade, where available. This is a sign that they have perfectly connected your seat belt extender. Part of HuffPost Travel. We go into more detail in our Best Airlines for Overweight Passengers article. Please contact Alaska Airlines reservations at. There's worrying about whether they will stand out, whether can they go to a certain attraction and what to wear that will make them feel comfortable. where people discriminate and hold prejudice against people in larger bodies. Well, seat belt extenders are legal, but this should not be the end of the story. Custom Accessories Seat Belt Comforter - 31560. Look if they have testimonials, if weight loss is mentioned. This doesnt mean that you cant lift up the armrest; however, you must demonstrate that the armrest can go down. That is why we advise you to speak to the airline before boarding to know if the extenders are available. While bean counters look for ways to maximize profit on airplanes by making seat spaces narrower the physical comfort of the consumer does not appear to enter the equation., Ivan Sviatkovskyi / EyeEm via Getty Images. I took this as an opportunity to help people who have experienced the same issue. If you seek additional assistance with booking a flight, flight information, or have a special services request, please chat with us or fill out our Contact Us Form. Regular, rigid and adjustable extenders buckle right into your existing seat belt! However, it is easier said than done. The belt extender can be adjusted to add between 9 and 24 inches in length to the traditional airline seat belt, and it comes with its own carrying bag. Use of the Southwest websites and our Company I enjoy traveling a lot and especially traveling by air. Most people have been asking whether airplane seat belt extenders are legal. Recently, the aviation industry has received scrutiny for the size of seats on airplanes. If it makes you more comfortable, you can also. While the idea might entice some, for others it can be stressful and, for plus-size travelers, there's more to that. However, before purchasing Southwest seat belt extender 737-800, make sure it is compatible with the planes seat belt. While some flyers have had good experiences and know theres nothing wrong with needing an extender, others have understandably felt angry at how ridiculously size-exclusive the standard seat belt length is. Music festivals, parades, marches and more commemorate Juneteenth across America. Where can I Buy a seat belt extender for Airplanes? If you need a seat belt extension, all you have to do is request it from the flight attendant. Buying a seat belt extender for Airplanes may be a good choice. Remember that it's okay if you need to ask for one requesting a seat belt extender is for your safety. Notice indicator to alert users that action will result in the browser opening a new tab or window. 08:13 PM Just ask for the extender, and dont feel the need to explain why it is needed, she said. Congrats on SWA's redesign in the 737-800 plane. Apply for an Alaska Airlines US Visa Signature credit card, Apply for an Alaska Airlines US Business credit card. Here's how: If you need a visual how-to, check out videos on TikTok or YouTube to learn more. Extenders are incredibly easy to install. If you need an extender on the plane, you can ask the flight attendant on board. Price: $15.99 or lessShop now: Seat Belt Extender Pros | Amazon. If a customer, once onboard, realizes that they require a Southwest seatbelt extender, they should ask for one from the flight attendant. You also must remain seated with the seat armrest(s) down for the whole flight. Please call Alaska Airlines reservations at 1-800-252-7522 to ensure your reservation is booked correctly. So much in this culture is tied up with body size, Dragon said, noting how were perceived by romantic partners, medical providers, family and even employers. All airlines are developing accommodations for overweight passengers. While the FAA advises airlines not to allow personal seat belt extenders, this has not stopped travelers from purchasing their own just simply because they feel more comfortable bringing a belt than asking for one. Some airlines may make you reserve an extender in advance, so its best to check options before your flight. Line: CA. You realize that connecting your seat belt extender is worth your tightness and practice is necessary before your next flight. For a person who already experiences discrimination and marginalization for their body size, not fitting into a seat belt can feel like confirmation that their body is somehow wrong, bad and unworthy, and has no value, said Katie Piel, a therapist who works with clients of all sizes on their eating disorders and body image distress. Members arent entitled to Premier qualifying earnings and associated Premier benefits on the extra ticket purchased. Some airlines are doing a good job of documenting a policy while . How To Get a Seat Belt Extender On Southwest. SkyMiles awards may be redeemed for the extra seat. I like to ask for the extender as soon as I board while everyone is still stowing their carry-on and getting settled, said Luk, whos had to use an extender since her early 40s. If you get tired of asking the Southwest Airline attendants for a seat belt extender so that you can fly safely and comfortably, worry . 2023 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. Travelers appreciate: Previous customers say that the belt is much longer than the extender some airlines provide. Well waive penalties or fees that may otherwise apply to this change. Only Alaska-issued 6-letter confirmation codes can be accepted. Copyright 2008-2023 OReilly Should this occur, we are unable to guarantee accommodations for the traveler who did not purchase a second seat. Type A airplane seat belt extension corresponds to most airlines. According to 2020 data published by TripSavvy, an expert-based travel site, each airline has different lengths of seat belts and extenders. Both seats are purchased at the same low fare. How to use a seatbelt extender #seatbelt #howto # The FAA requires all passengers be able to buckle seat belts with armrests down. Self-service check-in is not available for Havana. Are you experiencing problems fitting airplane seatbelts? Step 3 - Put in the Seat Belt Extender. In my opinion, the best way to deal with a problem is not running away from it but looking for solutions to itthis time, I had to take my advice. You can do this by contacting the airline directly or looking for a diagram of the plane's layout and seat dimensions on the airline's website. Checked baggage charges and allowances are applied to each seat purchased. Ultimately, every person deserves safety and respect, Piel emphasized. Please note: Do not assign seats in the exit row. This is because these airlines operate aircraft with narrower seat widths than other airlines. Seat Belt Extender Pros - Returns and Exchanges Robert is an expert in commercial air travel with decades of experience in the travel industry, and has spent countless hours in airports and on planes for work. Seat Belt Extension; 10 Inch; 7/8 Inch Locking Tab; This is the safest and most economic way to extend the length of your existing seat belt. or search by City & State or Zip: Seat Belt Extenders - Safe Seat Belt Extensions - OEM Seatbelts Choosing The Right Length Seat Belt Extender Some travelers find they need to get a seat belt extender: a piece that goes between the belt and the buckle to help the two connect. (12) Select a store to see pricing & availability. There are options out there for plus-size travelers when it comes to seat belt extenders and policies for those of size. The FAA states that only an extender provided by the airline is allowed to be used in flight you can't use your own. This means that you will not need to purchase a seat belt extender as you will not be allowed to use it on Southwest Airlines. Whether you will need a seatbelt extender or not next time you fly will depend on the airline you are flying with, due to each airline having seats with different seatbelt lengths.