Roberta Aguirre
For plus-size travellers, flying can be a stressful experience, with concerns about fitting into the seat, encroaching on other passengers' space, and whether the seat belt will fit. While some people opt to buy their own seat belt extenders, it is not recommended. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prohibits passengers from using their own seat belt extenders, as they are not considered safe and do not comply with strict safety guidelines. Airlines are required to carry a minimum of four seat belt extenders per flight and provide them free of charge. So, if you're wondering if you can buy a seat belt extender at the airport, the answer is that you don't need to, as they are readily available on flights.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Should you buy your own seat belt extender? | No, the FAA prohibits passengers from using their own seat belt extenders. |
| Why can't you bring your own? | The FAA does not recognise them as safe. |
| What if you need a seat belt extender? | Ask a flight attendant for one. Airlines are required to carry a minimum of 4 per flight and provide them free of charge. |
| What if the airline runs out of seat belt extenders? | Flight attendants will call through to the airport to have more delivered. |
| How do you use a seat belt extender? | Click the extender into the plane's seat belt and adjust the belt to the correct length. |
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What You'll Learn
Seat belt extenders are available on flights and at airports
According to a 2020 report by TripSavvy, seat belt lengths range from 31 to 51 inches, depending on the airline. If you are one of the first to board, you can ask the flight attendant for an extender as you head to your seat. If you are unable to board early, try to grab an aisle seat and then ask an attendant for an extender. You can also contact the airline directly before your flight to get more information about the aircraft you will be flying in, including seat dimensions and belt lengths.
While some people may consider buying their own seat belt extender, this is not recommended. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prohibits passengers from using their own seat belt extenders, as they cannot ensure that passenger-owned extenders comply with strict safety guidelines. The FAA has stated that many companies selling these devices online include fake "FAA documentation". The only seat belt extenders that the FAA endorses and regularly tests and inspects are those provided by the airlines. Therefore, it is best to request a seat belt extender from the airline rather than bringing your own.
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Buying your own seat belt extender is not advisable
While some people may feel uncomfortable asking for a seat belt extender, buying your own is not advisable. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advises airlines not to allow passengers to bring their own seat belt extenders onto a flight. This is because they cannot ensure that passenger-owned extenders comply with the strict safety guidelines they have in place. If something were to happen, the airline would be liable.
The FAA has not tested or approved any third-party seat belt extenders on the market. Even if a seat belt extender purchased online states that it is FAA-compliant, this is likely fake, as the FAA only provides these directly to airlines. Using your own seat belt extender could also affect your travel insurance. If a passenger is injured or killed when using their own seat belt extender, their travel, life, accidental death and dismemberment, long-term disability, supplemental health coverage, and life insurance may be void. This is because the extender was not FAA-approved, inspected, tested, or certified by the airline.
Additionally, if any surrounding passengers are injured or killed due to the failure of a personal seat belt extender, the FAA has advised that the passenger who used it may be legally and/or financially responsible. Personal seat belt extenders may also not work with the mechanism of the plane's buckle, which could be dangerous in an emergency. They could either snap under pressure or keep the passenger locked in their seat with no escape.
Instead of buying your own seat belt extender, it is recommended to ask for one on the flight. Airlines are required by law to provide these at no charge, and flight attendants are trained to deal with these situations gracefully. They do not discriminate against passengers for their body size and are more concerned with keeping all passengers safe.
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Asking for a seat belt extender is nothing to be embarrassed about
Asking for a seat belt extender can be a daunting prospect for some. However, it is important to remember that your safety is paramount, and there is nothing to be embarrassed about when requesting one.
Firstly, it is your right to ask for a seat belt extender, and it is the airline's responsibility to provide one. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines state that "seat belt extenders are considered part of the aircraft seat and must be provided by the airline". Therefore, you are well within your rights to request one, and the airline is required by law to provide it at no additional charge.
Secondly, flight attendants are trained to deal with these situations gracefully and discreetly. They are aware that not everyone fits into the standard-sized seats, and their priority is to ensure your safety and comfort. As one flight attendant puts it, "we could give two shits if you are fat, we want to keep you safe". They are used to handling such requests, and it is in their best interest to ensure your safety and comfort.
Thirdly, your privacy will be respected. If you feel uncomfortable asking for an extender, you can simply raise your hand, and a flight attendant will bring one to you. You can also ask the flight attendant nearest your seat as you board the plane, and they will discreetly provide you with an extender. Remember, flight attendants are trained to deal with these situations, and they will do their best to make you feel at ease.
Finally, remember that your comfort and safety are the top priorities. Seat belt extenders are provided to ensure your comfort and safety during the flight. There is no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed about your body. As a passenger, you deserve to have a safe and comfortable journey, and the airline and flight crew are committed to making that happen. So, if you need a seat belt extender, don't hesitate to ask for one. Your wellbeing is paramount, and there is absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about.
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Seat belt extenders are a sensitive topic
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advises airlines not to allow passengers to bring their own seat belt extenders. This is because they cannot ensure that these devices comply with strict safety guidelines. In an emergency, a personal seat belt extender could snap or fail to work with the plane's buckle mechanism, endangering the passenger. Additionally, using a personal extender may affect a passenger's travel insurance coverage in the event of an incident.
Despite the risks, some travellers choose to purchase their own seat belt extenders due to the discomfort and anxiety associated with asking for one on the plane. However, flight attendants are trained to handle these situations gracefully and are typically respectful and understanding. They are also able to see when a "passenger of size" may need an extender. Airlines are required by law to provide seat belt extenders on flights at no charge, and airplanes usually carry several.
To reduce anxiety and ensure a comfortable flying experience, travellers can research the aircraft they will be flying on in advance to anticipate their needs. If possible, boarding early and requesting an extender from a flight attendant on the way to one's seat can be a discreet option. Alternatively, requesting an aisle seat can make it easier to contact an attendant during the flight. While seat belt extenders are a sensitive topic, prioritising safety and comfort is crucial for all travellers.
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Seat belt extenders are not allowed in exit rows
While some passengers may feel embarrassed to ask for a seat belt extender, it is important to remember that they are provided for your safety. Airlines are required by law to provide seat belt extenders free of charge. It is advisable to talk to the airline in advance or speak to the gate agents prior to boarding to ensure that there are enough seat belt extenders available.
However, it is important to note that seat belt extenders are not allowed in exit rows. This is a safety precaution, as even if a passenger using an extender can quickly get up, open the exit, and exit the plane, the extender itself could pose a tripping hazard to those following behind. In addition, some planes now have exit rows with seat belt fittings that do not work with extenders, to prevent oversized passengers from sitting in those rows.
While some passengers may choose to bring their own seat belt extenders, this is generally not advised. The FAA advises airlines not to allow personal seat belt extenders, as they cannot ensure that these devices comply with strict safety guidelines. If something were to happen, the airline could be held liable. In addition, using a personal seat belt extender could affect a passenger's travel insurance coverage in the event of an incident.
To ensure a safe and comfortable flight, it is best to request a seat belt extender from the airline rather than bringing your own.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you cannot buy a seat belt extender at the airport. Airlines provide seat belt extenders on flights as they are required by law to do so at no charge.
While there are no official FAA guidelines against passengers providing their own seat belt extenders, the FAA advises airlines not to allow passengers to bring their own seat belt extenders. This is because they cannot ensure passenger-owned extenders comply with strict safety guidelines.
If you need a seat belt extender, you can ask the flight attendant for one as you board or when you are seated. Airlines carry a minimum of four seat belt extenders per flight and are required to offer them free of charge.
It is unlikely that an airline will run out of seat belt extenders. However, in the rare event that there aren't enough, flight attendants can request more from the airport.
