FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 8, 2026                

 

Obesity Action Coalition Calls on Airlines to Improve Policies for Passengers of Size


Tampa, FL — The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is urging airlines to improve policies and procedures for passengers of size through greater transparency, consistency and respect.

Through its Action Center, OAC is calling on travelers, advocates and supporters to sign a petition encouraging airlines to adopt more accessible and standardized approaches for passengers who need additional seating accommodations.

While airlines have implemented Customer of Size policies, experiences often vary between carriers, airports and individual flights. Passengers may encounter inconsistent procedures, limited information about seating accommodations and uncertainty when attempting to secure comfortable and appropriate seating.

The petition calls on airlines to:

  • Make it easier to book additional seats through websites and mobile apps without requiring customer service assistance
  • Provide affordable options for additional seating accommodations
  • Share clear and transparent seating policy information during booking, check-in, boarding and in-flight travel
  • Implement policies consistently and respectfully across staff and flights
  • Standardize seatbelt lengths and ensure adequate availability of seatbelt extenders
  • Consider weight and size in airline safety policies
  • Include weight and size awareness in staff and crew training
  • Create opportunities for passengers of size to provide feedback through advisory and engagement programs

For more than 20 years, OAC has worked to elevate the voices of individuals affected by obesity and advocate for equitable access, treatment and accommodations. The organization believes airlines have an opportunity to create a more accessible and predictable travel experience by adopting clear, fair and consistent policies that better meet the needs of passengers of size.

Supporters can add their names to the petition and help encourage meaningful improvements in airline accommodations for passengers of size. To sign the petition and learn more, visit the OAC Action Center.


For more information please contact:
Gianna Toto
OAC Marketing and Communications Manager
gtoto@obesityaction.org

About:
The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is a National nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by obesity through education, advocacy and support. The OAC is the first and only organization of its kind and the nation’s leading voice representing those impacted by obesity. To learn more about our work, please visit www.obesityaction.org.