This is a very difficult issue for people of size. What has been missing from much of the discussion is the human element. We can argue over health and economics, policy and politics, but the reality is in America and all over the world, there are millions of large people who wish to live productive lives in societies that condemn them based on their size.

There are no easy answers and quick fixes, either for weight issues or accommodations. But while we are debating, it seems only logical that we support all of these people to be productive members of society - not ostracized and not prohibited from contributing. There is a destructive irony in these discussions; while arguing over whether people of size are a burden, we limit their contribution and productivity.

That makes no sense, politically or economically. Whatever a person's size, it only makes sense to support active participation in all aspects of life, free from limiting prejudice.

Rebecca Weinstein, Esq, MSW
President, PeopleOfSize.com
http://www.peopleofsize.com

PeopleOfSize .com, Portland

I am 6' 10" tall, yes I am a little over weight, but if I wasn't I would look ill.  I am being discriminated against because of my height.  Even for driving, as I can not have a three door car, because my children or other passenger would not be able to sit behind me.  So I have to buy a large family car to accomadiate this fact so get to pay high charges, I bang my head on door frames as they are to low.  Now as I am over six foot tall, I am now going to have to pay more for a seat on a plane so I can enjoy some time away from this country that doesn't care for the right people.  I pay my taxes and work full time.  I don't claim benefits, but am being treated like a criminal, because of my height and weight.  I feel sorry for my two children as both will be over 6 foot tall.

Thanks very much, for making pay to have a holiday.  Change these policies ASAP, or you will be losing more business.

Many thanks

I flew on four airplanes in the past two weeks.   Two of them were inter-continental flights from SFO > Frankfurt (and return).  In an effort to not be gravely uncomfortable, I purchased tickets that would allow an upgrade - cost $420 USD.  Once at the airport, I was advised that I could buy a Business Class ticket for $700+USD - I'm not in a postition to pay for that, plus I wanted to sit next to my wife.  I had purchased and Economy Plus Annual subscription for $425 USD hoping this would solve the problem with the "up to 5 extra inches of legroom." 

The poor woman in front of me tried to recline her seat and was greeted with my knees, which (after nine knee surgeries) hurt. So not only did I have to be a contortionist and jeopardize the safety of people traveling down the isle because my leg was there, this woman's flight was uncomfortable as well.

The "5 extra inches" is compared to the rest of coach which lost 3-5 inches after the airlines took the room away by adding extra rows...so it really is all relevant. 

I am a relatively fit man in my mid 30's. Thankfully, my wife is small and I can steal some of her foot space. 

I am "taxed" every time I want comfort.  Whether it be buying an Exit Row ticket, a subscription to "5 extra inches" or a Business Select on a bargain US carrier - a change must come. 

Priority seating in bulkhead or exit row should be given to those who are over 6'2" (or so) and able to carry out the duties required for that seating.  Alternatively, a reduced rate should be made available for an upgraded ticket. 

If around the world, taller citizens as well as those who are, frankly , inconvenienced by our size come to accept some simple realities - flying can become a much more pleasant experience.