[Mr 5 0]

I think that first, airline seats are too small but since that factor probably won't change anytime soon I would say that forcing extra-heavy plane passengers to pay for two seats is probably a form of discrimination and not legally enforcable. They're singling out passengers with a weight problem and that sure smells of blatant discrimination although it also seems somewhat sensible from a business standpoint.

I've read that most airline customer service complaints are either about baggage handling (duh) and overcrowding due to overweight people slopping over the seats. This may be a reaction to those complaints but expect ACLU lawsuits in a minute or two.

One of the problems is equal treatment. The airlines don't charge tiny people less for a seat nor do they charge extra-tall people more for taking up more leg room so how can the airlines justify charging overweight people for an extra seat?

In any case, as airline seats aren't going to get much bigger and America has a bounty of obese people - who need to fly - I'll make a few suggestions to help cope with the problem for those who do much commercial flying.

1. Fly during off-peak times when flights are less full.

The odds of getting stuck next to an obese person or charged for an extra seat if you're obese are much less on off-peak flights.

2. Travel with someone.

If you're big, being seated next to a friend or family member means you can lift that armrest without being embarrassed or getting into a fight.

3. Move.

Remember, as soon as the cabin door closes, you can claim any available seat - or cluster of seats - within your class of service.

4. Fly first class. The seats are a lot bigger.

5. Ask for help.

In the past, gate agents used to upgrade tall or overweight passengers who needed more space. It still happens, but not as often.

Bottom line: Deal with it as best you can.