Question:
I hope someone can..

put my mind at ease. I am 9 1/2 mos. post op and lost 100lbs and down to 273!! I flew 4 years ago at 320 and the airplane seats were very, very tight and the seatbelt couldn't latch. I am 5'7" and my hips are at 57 inches now. I fly again in April. Do any of you think I can be comfy or do I really need to spend every waking moment at the gym? Every response is appreciated and thank you!!    — Mimi S. (posted on February 27, 2004)

February 27, 2004
First of all, the airline should have discreetly asked you if you would like a seat belt extender. It is just a piece of belt that snaps on the end of the existing belt. You can avoid this embarrassment in the first place by getting and attendant aside and requesting one before you are seated. They will bring it to you without any question or hassle. Not only will you be spared the embarrassment of wrestling with the belt, you will be much more comfortable. I was not aware of this extension until an attendant once noticed me struggling to snap my belt. She quietly handed my the extension and it worked great. When I returned it she told my to just ask for onw when boarding. Works like a charm!
   — [Deactivated Member]

February 27, 2004
Hi there, I am sorry to say, but the last time I flew (Feb. 03) I weighed only 245 and it was a tight squeeze. Thankfully I was with a family member and there was three seats and not a third person, so I could be comfortable. However, I didn't need the seat belt extender. How about splurging on a first class seat - which are much roomier and save yourself the discomfort. It might be worth the added cost. Hope this helps plan for your trip! Good luck! Barbie
   — BarbieCarroll

February 28, 2004

   — Virginia D.

February 28, 2004
Im 5'9" and last May I was on a 5 hour flight at the time I was 300lbs. I was not very comfortable but that was mostly due to the fact that I have long legs. As for the seat it was a tight squeeze but didn't need a belt extention. The other thing to ask for is the seats right behind first class so you don't have seats in front of you that lean back. I always ask for the emergency exit seats. Most of the time there are only 2 seats there in the smaller planes.
   — jenafwife

February 28, 2004
Mimi the seats allow up to 300 lbs, but it also depends on the type of plane I find 747's small, 900 serious spacious and 757 spacious.
   — Anna M.

February 29, 2004
You should be fine, maybe a little snug but not terribly uncomfortable. You can also ask the flight attendant for a seat belt extension.
   — Carolyn B.