One of the most common questions we get asked here at Plus Size Travel Too is ‘what do I do if my seatbelt doesn’t fit me on a flight?’
While we totally understand how overwhelming this thought can be, airlines have a procedure in place to help ensure everyone has a belt that fits. All you need to do is ask for a seatbelt extender.
Of course, this comes with its own issues.
Whether it’s asking in front of people or having a brightly coloured extension handed your way on a play full of people, there’s often a lot of shame associated with asking for a seatbelt extender.
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. Both of these options are incredibly unsafe and if anything was to happen, would put you at a lot of risk.
So, to help make the thought of asking for a seatbelt extender on a flight that little bit easier, we thought we’d put together a couple of our top tips:
Asking For A Seatbelt Extender On A Flight
Board Your Flight First
If you’re one of the first people to board, it’s much easier to find your seat, get comfortable and attract the attention of a flight attendant. If you can, pre-board and it will give you a little bit of time before everyone else starts boarding. During this time you can ask for your extender and get any other questions you may have out of the way.
With some airlines, like Southwest, pre-boarding will also give you the option to choose the seat that is the most comfortable for you. To find out more about who can pre-board a flight, you can visit this site here.
Ask Your Flight Attendant For The Extender As You Board The Plane
When you’re boarding, things often move quite slow as people are finding space for their luggage in the overhead storage. This is the perfect time to speak to the flight attendants and ask them for an extender. They’re usually located in the area that they’re standing so they’ll be able to get one for you there and then. If not, you may have to remind them again later on.
Sit In An Aisle Seat
If you’re worried about having a seatbelt extender handed to you in front of everyone, sitting in an aisle seat is a great way to have them discreetly hand it to you.
We know just how hard it can be to prioritise your embarrassment when it comes to asking for a seatbelt extender, but your safety during your flight is incredibly important.
If you’re squeamish about asking, just ask as you board the flight. I just look the FA in the eye as I board and say “may I get an Extension” and they know exactly what I mean every single time. Average person has probably no idea what I’m talking about but the crew does.