JUST KIDDING! Or so it seems...
As you all know, I flew to Chicago on Thursday via United Airlines. I hate flying. I really do. The hustle of it, the taking off my shoes and jacket, clearing my bags of all liquids, waiting for hours in an airport, sitting in a cramped plane smelling fumes and worrying about not being able to breath, but I do it because I like to go places.
I am fat and because of my weight this adds an extra layer of fear and reservation about flying. Will I fit? Will I squish the person next to me? Will someone be offended by my weight? What if I need a seat belt extender?
I've been flying to and from NYC through continental and American Airlines and have never not been able to buckle my seat belt even at my highest weight. It is tight and cramped, but I manage.
This time was different... I get right on the United flight and sit beside an equally large man who happens to carry majority of his weight in his belly region.
Not me. I am hippy, and butty and have a shelf that you could eat dinner on. I sit down and the struggle begins. I start sweating, my hands are starting to burn from the force of trying to cram the two pieces of metal together. I hoped that shear will would make it buckle. It just isn't happening- I needed 3 more inches. My face is red, and I am contemplating using my scarf as a hiding device.
Looking back, I would have used my scarf. It was a small plane and really if we were plummeting hundreds of miles into the earth would it really save me? But, my conscious gets the best of me. I start fearing that they have tracking devices up front to see who has and who hasn't buckled, so I take a deep breath and timidly raise my hand.
The flight attendant walks towards me. I can do this, I keep repeating. She is getting closer and I'm sure I'm going to suffocate as the plane seems to be getting smaller. She is now a foot away and I point to my seat belt and my inability to buckle it.
And do you know what she says? Are you ready for this?
YOU CAN'T FIT IN YOUR SEAT?!?!
Me stunned, what? yes, I just can't buckle the belt.
YOU CAN'T BUCKLE YOUR SEAT BELT?
No. (obviously)
WELL YOU CAN'T FLY WITH US!
are you serious? I need to get to chicago.
NO YOU HAVE TO GET OFF THE PLANE! COME UP FRONT.
I sit there, just staring at her. The entire plane stares at me. She stands there waiting what seems like a million minutes. I don't budge. And then she says
I'M JUST KIDDING, I'LL BE RIGHT BACK.
I type that in caps, because she was loud and obnoxious. The entire plane was looking at me. I mean, who wouldn't watch this play out? No one around me got the joke and I swear the stares were of sympathy rather than judgment (mostly.)
If this was three years ago, I don't think I would have made it mentally through the whole weekend in Chicago without replaying this situation in my head a thousand times and dreading my flight home. But, I just dealt with it and kept my head up on the way to Chicago.
The thing is, is that I get that I am fat, I get the too fat to fly stuff, but really? Did it need to happen like this? United Airlines has been in the media recently about their treatment of fat people flying, is this their new protocol? Embarrass the shit out of your fat customers so they are too ashamed to fly again?
Oh my gosh. That’s insane. I can’t believe that. I mean, I can, but you know what I mean. As much as I try to be confident, as do you, there are still some things that are just too much. Did you talk to anyone with management or at the airport? Or maybe e-mail the company. I’m glad you told this story. I’ll never fly with them.
That’s one of the worst parts of flying - thinking that the flight attendants will make a big deal about the way I fit into the seat. But to do it that obnoxiously? That is so uncalled for! I’m sorry because I don’t care what you look like, you don’t deserve to be treated that way! I hope that horrible woman loses her job!
You are so much more gracious than me. I would have lost it on that woman. Probably with tears. Maybe anger. But I wouldn’t have been as gracious. When you told us the story over cocktails, I was amazed by your ability to laugh and recognize how ridiculous she was. As many times as I hear that story, I can’t resist the urge to hug you and then strangle her.
Because, guuurl! You got it goin’ on!
(Did I pull that off?)
Goodness sakes have you filed a claim? That was terrible behavior on her part and I think she needs to know that what she did was VERY inapproriate. Sorry you had to go through that on your weekend away in Chicago. Hope your post brings more attention to inflight service!!!!!!!
OMG I want this attendant to get fired so badly. That’s just obnoxious.
First time commenting on your blog to say WTF?!? That was extremely rude and you need to report her a$$. I am one of those people who needs an extender (and have needed it the last few years) when I fly, but I have never NEVER had someone say that to me. Everyone just nods politely and gets one for me. On the last flight I took, I was asked if I purchased two tickets to fly, but even that was done very politely. Seriously, report it - maybe not in a “fire her a$$” way, but in a teachable moment way.
I’m just gonna say it…
I would’ve choked the bitch.
The end.
Wow. Just wow, I hope you let someone know about that. Something similar happened to me once. And then I started driving the 2000 miles between Colorado and Massachusetts when I had more than a week to spare. Good for you getting back on a plane on Sunday. I would have been freaking out.
I have to say that is disgusting and as soon as I read it I turned around and wrote a nasty e-mail to united (which I fly pretty regularly and am a mileage plus member but will definitely double think this from now on) That’s complete bullshit, btw, you look gorgeous in the pics from blogher
Omg! I totally agree with “fat bridesmaid” I would have choked a bitch! That is ridiculous! I would totally report her!
Yeah, I’ve had all those same thoughts right down to worrying about tracking devices. WTF. THE HO NEEDS TO BURN! I used to love flying United Ted. I won’t be flying with them again EVER.
Thats awful, how in her mind did she think that was ok to say to a passenger? or anyone for that matter regardless of the situation.
I have to say I work in travel and some of the US airlines are the worst in the world in terms of service standards.
Hope your next flying experience is better
It is so sad that people who are in the business of customer service think it is ok to treat a customer in such a manner. As a waitress I’ve had my joke or two with the customer but not at their expense! Good for you in your ability to not dwell - I still struggle with that one more often than not.
Oh my goodness, I simply cannot that happened in real life - sounds like a sitcom. I tell you, if that happened here in Oz, I would like to think I would kick up a stink - but shamefully, I am afraid to say that I don’t think I would.
Congrats for being so brave to share this story and am so glad you held your head up high all the way to your destination.
PS BlogHer sounds like so much fun.
PPS I have a girly w/end in 6 sleeps, and like your tales, I cannot wait to laugh, chat and be silly for that entire time!!
Did you ask the flight attendant for her name? I would so file a complaint about her at the United Airlines, how rude was she!!!
To all that asked, I did send a letter to United on monday, still waiting for a response
That really sucks! I flew to Dallas a year ago and I asked for a seat belt extender as soon as I got on the plane. I knew I would fit fine in the seat just as I knew the belt would not fit.
Our flight attendants (return trip, too) were very polite and respectful and never made me feel uncomfortable for needing the extension.
I am so sorry your airline just to be so crass and hateful and NOT FUNNY AT ALL!!!
Oh. My. God. “I’m just kidding.” Uh, no.
This is so unladylike of me but I woulda killed her. And don’t even try to second guess how fast it would take us curvy gals to take the scrawny bitch down.
Not that I ever flew United but I never will now not even for a good deal. I will never support any business that can’t respect a human being.
Lalie
haha tina, she actually wasn’t scrawny herself which makes it that much more…hilarious?
Oh sweetie, that is crummy to the max!! I’m glad you made a complaint to the airline. How utterly disgusting. Good on you for dealing with it with grace and maturity. xx
OMG! I can’t believe this happened to you. That is the most horrifying thing ever. Where did she learn her customer service because that is grounds for termination, in my book.
Flying is very stressful for me too. I used to weight 286 and I would never fly because I was so scared that my weight would make the plane crash or I would swish the person sitting next to me. I was so excited when i got down to 219 and I sat on the plane and felt comfortable. It was a big deal for me to be able to fit in that seat. My skinny friends had no clue of how nervous I was to be flying with them.
Anyway, I think you should write a letter to the company!
Time to file a lawsuit. If she had issues she could have spoken softly and quietly with you. I am sure she would have taken great offense if you made fun of one of her flaws. How did she even get the flippin’ job!
I would look at another carrier…. JetBlue, AirTran, Frontier, etc.
Oh my GOD!!!! That is horrible!!!! I would have had all I could do to contain my reaction. Unbelievable!!!!
Gene- haha sue for emotional distress
I don’t live in a jetblue city, otherwise I’ve heard their service is great.
I actually really like American Airlines and British Air is pretty decent too (actually way better than anything here)
I think flying has gone wayyy down hill in the past few years.
Oh . . . my . . .
Shocked. Appalled.
We can only hope that woman gains so much weight in her old age that she gets stranded in Florida with her time share.
OMG that is the absolute worst case scenario. Ughh! No, #1 would be if she actually threw you out of the plane. What a bitch!
And you should definitely write a letter to the airline customer relations!! Mention your flight number and the date and I hope someone talks to her about her unacceptable behaviour!!
I would have reported her and then sent a strong letter expressing your feelings about being treated this way. How sad that in this world people still feel it is acceptable to tease fat folks. Even our president and congress are looking for ways to “punish” the obese.
You should send this to The Consumerist!
Shock. I am in shock. What a terrible woman!
That is totally disgusting. You should have had her job. There is no reason for anyone to be humiliated, no matter what the reason. I have never flown them, but if they allow that kind of behavior, then I never will. I’m so glad you sat with your head high, she should be the one hiding in a hole.
Oh My God. I am horrified for you and want to give you the biggest hug ever. What a horrible, horrible, horrible thing for that woman to do. I don’t suppose you got her name? I am so sorry that happened to you.
WHAT!? Girl, you are a good one, because I would have reported her ASAP. Who does she think she is and why would she EVER think that is ok?! You flight should have been FREE and she should have been let go!
I’m sorry you had to deal with that! Her ignorance is no reflection on you. I really hope you know that. Overweight or not, you deserve respect!
wow.. what a b**ch. I would report her, because that’s totally disrespectful. It’s just wrong to treat anyone like that, we all have feelings. Ignorant flight attendant. I would have said, “yeah..go wash your filthy mouth and the toilets while you’re at it, do your job and shut up.” (sorry guys, I hate disrespectful people)
That was not nice. She should be fired. She definitely should be fired. You should report her, Lorrie.
That honestly is TERRIBLE and I still can’t believe it happened. I fly with United quite often and most of the flight attendants are polite and helpful in that kind of situation. I’ve personally witnessed them quietly and discreetly help a man find a seat where he would be more comfortable. Apparently this particular woman didn’t understand its not a joking matter and her job is to make all passengers as comfortable and happy as possible.
I bet if you tweet and/or post something on youtube about this, you’ll get a faster reponse from United.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/30/business/global/30tweetair.html
OMG that infuriates me!!! I am so sorry you had to put up with that, it’s just inexcusable!! Tweet that story around the WORLD - stupid United…
That is horrible. I am so sorry that you had to go through that, I would have probobly cried. That woman should be fired.
update: i have emailed, tweeted and written about it here. still waiting for a reply via email, they said it would take up to 5 days. we’ll see…
Another lurker who wanted to lend her support-that is TERRIBLE! There was no reason or possible justification for her vicious behavior.
I’m glad you’ve used your presence on the internet to try to get United’s attention, but I think this situation warrents a more proactive approach. You don’t deserve to wait-you deserve an apology NOW. First, call customer relations and demand to speak to a supervisor. Get that supervisor’s name and address, and send him/her a certified letter that explains the situation and demands a call, an explanation of employee training, and what the possibilities are in terms of the employee-can a letter be put in her file? Can she write you a personal letter of apology? Can she be sent to “sensitivity training” (which I’m sure would be a joke, but still)?
If you don’t get an appropriately respectful and apologetic response, I would consider talking to a lawyer; I know that when I was having problems with a certain cell phone company, I borrowed some of my uncle’s stationary (he’s a lawyer), sent a strongly worded letter, and my issue was resolved within 24 hrs. Just saying:)
Again, I’m so sorry this happened to you, but it sounds like you responded with all of the character that that stewardess lacked. ugh.
I have never written on a blog before, but I was so appalled at your story, I just had to comment. What an unbelievable &%$#@ that flight attendenat was!!!! I sincerely hope you complained to the airlines! I rarely travel, but I will certainly make an effort NOT to use United ever again!! That is inexcusable!!!
What an a-hole.
wow! i second fat bridesmaid comment!
If I knew how you felt about cursing I’d be cussing a blue streak right know!!! What BS!!
I have nothing to add except, I think you completely ROCK and a big EFF you to the dumbass flight attendant.
OMG! How can they be so rude and thoughtless! And loud?!
Sorry you had to go through that I would have probably started crying!
Oh, I do hope you write a scathing letter to United Airlines! I can’t believe it!
I’m new to your blog and really enjoying it. I am working on my own weight loss journey and enjoy your posts.
I’m absolutely HORRIFIED by this woman’s behavior! Granted, I hadn’t heard positive things about United in general, but this takes the cake. This woman should be fired and given lessons in human decency. I’m just outraged.
A travel writer that I read (and love!) is having a bad situation with United and I sent her the link to this entry.
http://twitter.com/LunaticAtLarge/
United doesn’t deserve any of our money - I refuse to fly them even if they have the cheapest fair to where I am traveling.
That is ridiculous! I hope that you write a complaint to United! They should not treat anyone like that. I mean seriously? What kind of business practice is that? I would have probably told her where to shove her seatbelt extender and got kicked off the plane!
This is SO VERY UNACCEPTABLE behavior on the part of the stewardi AND the airline!
no way! i cant believe the attendant did that to you!!! i would be writing a heated letter to the company…wow…don’t worry, you can lose the weight, she cant lose her stupidty! ha.
But they let stupid bitches fly?
Write a letter. Or write a song. Have you seen this?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YGc4zOqozo
Apparently this really hurt United’s sales. I freaking hate United and this just confirms how I feel about them.
Entirely inappropriate! I know that feeling of dread getting on a plane, roller coaster, etc. It’s true, we’re all aware of our size, no need to be nasty! What an awful human being.
I would have whooped that bitch’s ass.
I’d have slapped her. Completely and totally inappropriate behavior on her part!
That is the most insensitive thing I have ever heard.
Before loosing 65lbs, I flew many times to visit my boyfriend in Chicago. I soon learned how to politely ask for a seat belt extender with my head held high. The flight attendants were always helpful and discrete and never made me feel ashamed. That woman could stand to learn a thing or two from them.
OMG!! Ok.. I have a big mouth myself, and she would have gotten an earful had it of been me, you are surely a much nicer person than I am! lol!!! I think you should write a letter, call, whatever, about what happened. I can’t get over the gall of some people.. UGH!!!
Oh, and literally LOL’ed at Maranda’s comment.. lmao!!
Oh my god! Sweetie… you need to file a formal complaint with the airlines and then get yourself an attorney and sue the airlines. I would have been horrified if someone had done that to me in public.
P.S. Please buy yourself some seatbelt extenders so that you never have to ask for the assistance of those judgemental people again. Just search for ‘airline seatbelt extender’.
That is my worst nightmare!!!
I hate flying. I hate wasting money by buying two seats cause I am afraid of squishing the person next to me. I hate having to ask for a seat belt extender.
I have noticed that some flight attendants are kind and discreet and some are rude and grossed out. I love to go new places but flying discourages me.
If I was in your situation I would have cried. I am horrified for you! Insane.
That flight attendant just joined my list of ‘people I REALLY hope don’t EVER breed’. Seriously, how can sombody be so rude? Not to mention retarded? If we lived in a world with less cotton wool wrapping, natural selection would have got her within 15 years of birth. *angry rant over*
Sorry about violence of above, just cant stand people who think that being heinous proves their inate superiority. grrrrrrrrr.
Just thought I would ask how you let people know about your blog, have just started blogging about my ambition to be qn ex-fatty, and it would be nice to get the occasional response (even if only to abuse my spelling. I know, its awful).
I’m at http://purplecoatmission.blogspot.com/ if you feel like dropping by.
I cannot believe that story!! I am just in shock. I have dread about flying for the same reasons you do. Congratulations for surviving it. Really.
I’ve been following your blog for awhile but not posting…but this KILLS ME.
OH MY GOODNESS! Please tell us that you submitted a huge fregging compaint? That is AWFUL. It sounds like total prejudice to me. As someone who works in the fitness industry, I can’t imagine someone saying EVER something like this. Seriously-how motivating, eh? I really hope you write in. Hearing about your experience disgusts me and makes me want to write in on your (and probably a million others) behalf.
WOW! I am speechless right now. I’m so sorry you had to deal with that woman. I would write to the airline company and at least get a free flight or something out of it. People can be so rude sometimes! ! !
Ridiculous! But I’m sure you heard about the flight in Miami today — something like 28 passengers hurt in turbulence, several of whom apparently hit the ceiling. But with flight attendants like that, I wouldn’t be surprised if passengers used a scarf to fake being buckled! But not being buckled is dangerous and you did the right thing in getting the extender.
I love your blog. I really think you should read mine, you’d relate to it
I would have kicked me off the plane and not because I am fat. I would have gotten kicked off after cussing out the flight attendent. Then I would have asked the flight attendent, “What did the 5 fingers say to the face?” Then she would reply, “What?” Then I’d slap her silly and say, “THAT’s what the 5 fingers said to the face. Now I’m just kidding!” I wonder how funny she would think that is….
oops…I meant they would have kicked me off not I would have kicked me off.
OH NO SHE DID NOT!!!!! That’s it, I will never fly that airline and I will tell them exactly why.
I am so sorry that you had to go through that. I usually have to ask for an extender but the flight attendants have always been pleasant and discrete about it. That is just crazy!!!
OMG. I am flying to NYC in August for business and have been busting my butt at the gym b/c I am afraid of the same scenerio. I too need about 2-3 inches more to buckle my seat belt. I’ve asked for extenders before and have had it happen very discreetly, but I have not flown since last summer. Here’s hoping Continental is a little bit more discreet for me. Sorry about your incident! It’s crazy, b/c a man my size would never get the same treatment!
This is outrageous. You should totally report her or tell the media about this ridiculous “joke”. It’s not joking. She’s insulting you and no one is laughing!! This is crazy. I almost can’t buckle my seatbelt before and I didn’t know that I can ask for an extension belt. I just breathe in and buckle it, and can’t breathe and eat for the whole trip.
Some people are socially total awkward. I’m glad to read that you kept your ground. Are you planning to make a complaint?
Please complain. The flight attendant’s behavior was inappropriate.
In the end, how was the situation rectified? Did you get a seat belt extender?
I am sorry you experienced that kind of behavior from that flight attendant.
I rarely fly that airline.
When I was travelling to Eurpore, I was treated poorly by the Air France staff in Paris. I had to check in, for some reason, in Paris before getting on a flight for either Pau or Rome (I cannot recall which). The Air France kept staring at me. They made me check my carry on although the very slim well dressed European woman who checked in ahead of me was allowed to go through without checking her uber sized bag. Skinny privilege I guess.
You ought to write United and complain. That attendent needs to be disciplined for her lack of judgement.
Something along the lines of “FUCKING BITCH” crossed my mind and I apologize for the language. I can not believe that anyone in their right mind would think that would be an appropriate time or place to be making a joke. I am absolutely disgusted with how she handled the situation, and sadly I would have spent days being pissed off and crying. I hope that you took the time to file a complaint, and if you didn’t I hope that you will consider it. That kind of treatment is just NOT acceptable!
I’m so sorry you had to go through that. Although I must say I don’t agree with other’s comments that they’ll never fly the airline again. The airline may have no idea how their employee is behaving, and they should be told.
But then, I don’t believe in condoning or praising any company on one person’s actions whether rude or outstanding. She was obviously rude and incredibly inappropriate. And she should have to answer for her actions toward you.
Personally, I would write a letter to the airline with my complaint and how this has affected your viewpoint of their company.
People have no compassion! I just found your blog and I am so inspired by your willingness, to share your stories on this journey! Way to go. I too struggle with weight but I hate the gym. I found a new way of exercising that isn’t so intimidating. I workout online. There are a few different options but I use a site called http://www.youcanmakeitfit.com. They have tons of guided workouts that can be done anywhere you have an internet connection. Just thought I would share. Keep up the great work and thanks for inspiring the rest of us.
I rarely comment, but read regularly. This is outrageous…just outrageous. This was abusive and a real customer service nightmare should you complain. This woman was not being funny, she was being cruel.
I cannot even articulate how awful that must have been. I had a similar experience at Six Flags not too long ago, and I never want to go through anything like that again. I am so sorry she treated you so terribly. Best wishes!
What the hell?!! Well bravo to you for keeping your cool. I wouldn’t have been able to handle such a demeaning situation with such grace. I’d call and complain immediately!
I agree with Juice,
I hope you got her name, badge number and the name of her supervisor. Then write a very professional letter to United describing the harassment received by their employee. Tell them about all the witnesses. Hint of a lawsuit. Copy your imaginary lawyer. Probably nothing would come from it but it would make me (oops! I mean you) feel good.
But maybe you don’t need such a letter. Congrats for not letter the bad behavior of others spoil your trip!
Oh my goodness! That is awfully cruel. Just terrible. I’m so sorry! I hope you took her name and complained about her.
That’s horrible. and unfortunately becoming all too common.
I am so sorry you had to go through that. I applaud your courage and strength. I would have spent the flight crying in the bathroom.
I don’t fly anymore because of this scenario that you’ve just described. I don’t want to have it. I would have been red-faced! I’ve driven thousands of miles over the past 2 years because of my unwillingness to fly anymore. The last time I tried flying I could barely get the seat belt clicked.
I finally found a reasonable workaround…Amtrak.
She was an absolute bitch.
I don’t believe it. I mean I believe YOU… but I don’t believe her. Bitch…C**t! (we save that one for moments such as these) I am terribly sorry that you had to go through that. She needs an asskicking.
OMG, this has to be one of the WORST stories I’ve ever heard in my life– humiliating for you, and absolutely unacceptable behavior from a “service” provider. You are a powerful writer, so I would power up your ‘puter and write a letter to the CEO of the airline and if you don’t remember this glorified flying waitress’s name tell her/him exactly what flight you were on and demand redress. Unbelievable!
Seriously, I might have punched her in the face for you and then gotten kicked off the plane myself for being “too violent” to the mean flight attendant. Of course she was probably a size 2 and eats everything in the world with not one day of exercise…what a BITCH.
PS…I don’t think a seat belt will save anyone from a plunge to the ground from 50,000 feet…
OUCH. I totally feel your pain. I had a similar incident on United last year to Vegas although they didn’t completely humiliate me, just my personal flogging.
My complaint is really simple…60 percent of the US is overweight. Very few people fit comfortably in those 19″ seats.
Did the man next to you have trouble buckling his belt? Again, physics would say that he should have been in the same position, but I’ve seen it work where fat guy can pull that belt just under his stomach and it buckles.
Thank you for the post! I know we all feel that way when we fly.
Wow, that is horrible! Even though she was joking, that’s ridiculously insensitive. Shame on United Airlines!
That is just an awful story. You need to call the airline and demand your money back and an apology.
I am speechless. As if flying isn’t anxiety-provoking enough for larger people, but seriously, that would rank up there with one of my biggest nightmare situations.
You handled it with grace which is more than I would have done.
That woman should NOT work with the public. That was not funny! Would she make a comment like that to someone in a wheelchair whose chair didn’t quite fit well in a space. OMG, I’m just appalled.
I admire your courage, because I would have been mor-ti-fied. It’s so hard to handle situations where your weight is an issue. Like when I went to the amusement park with my friends and I couldn’t ride half of the rides because my hips are too big! I was so embarrassed! But I agree with the other comments, call/write United Airlines and let them have it! Did you get her name? She needs to be FIRED!
Hi,
I just found your blog via a random internet search. And it’s really funny that i’ve stumbled on this post, because I’m flying to Ireland in October for my Honeymoon and was just feeling kind of paranoid about not fitting on the airplane…
I’m a size 18, and I don’t fly AT ALL. Your story had me really embarrassed, and furious for you! I can’t believe how unprofessional and insensitive that woman was.
I once worked at a carnival as a ride operator, and it was really heartbreaking watching people struggle into the seat and try to lower the bar — that summer, I must have turned down at least a dozen people. I was always really sympathetic and as discreet as possible about it, but it really makes you think, what if I was in that situation??
Anyway, I will totally enjoy reading your blog, I’m starting up a “fat girl” blog myself and I think I just found loads of inspiration!
p.s.: you’re beautiful!
This and a laundry list of other reasons are why I do not fly United or US Airways. Both airlines have horrible customer service.
I really hope you report this treatment to the airline. This is a disgrace. The way many Americans treat overweight people is sickening. I really think that there needs to be consideration for overweight Americans in legislation. Discrimination agaisnt anyone because of their race, weight, sexual orientation, etc. should all be protected equally.
Good for you that you kept a positive attitude!
Oh
My
God
I cannot believe someone had the NERVE to be so rude!!!!! That is insane!!!
I would write their customer service department a letter describing the whole situation.
See how they comment back
I cannot believe someone actually did this to another human being. Especially one woman to another. What a horrible witch, I hope she lost her job for this. Or at least was put on the worst possible flight route for the rest of her miserable career!
I think that is why my 25-yr old daughter doesn’t want to fly. She is overweight but not grossly obese and she doesn’t like to dress up. I thought it was because she way gay and lost the whole “girly” clothes phase. I’ve asked her recently to take a trip which meant we had to “fly” and she refused. Said she’s afraid of flying but she’s never flown. So, after reading this, it made me think it was something else, like her weight that is bothering her. It’s so hard to get her motivated to start exercising and she eats horrible. I do know that things won’t change until she’s ready to make that change. Thanks for posting this blog, it brings things in perspective.
This is absolutely unacceptable and that person should be punished! I need an extension every time I fly and I’ve never experienced such awful behavior. I tend to ask them quietly when I walk in the plane if I can get one and then slip it by later.
Oh. Dear God. I would have died. I have had issues with United but I stole a seat belt extender a long time ago. I am in the same boat. I really have to work to get it closed. This sucks. Kudos for making the flight.
Any news from United?
Hope your doing well
Wow…that is totally unprofessional and darn right rude. I hope you write a letter to the company and complain. They should be giving you a free flight or something….soooo inappropriate. I’m sorry you had to endure that.
That’s insane! Why are people so darn rude!? And how the heck is that funny? I think I would have cried all week. You’re much better than me.
You should write a letter to the airline. It was rude and uncalled for, for the flight attendant to joke like that.
I applaud you for handling it so well.
I’m new to your blog and have been cruising your archives. I love how honest you are about everything.
And, I too LOVE Tae Bo.
Are you serious? I wouldn’t sue, but I would sure as heck write one heck of a letter to the head of public relations for the airline! Probably the CEO too! Just awful…
I would have died. Right there. I would have shriveled up and died. I can’t even believe that flight attendant. I’m on the brink of needing an extender and I am positive I would break down if someone had treated me that way.
OK…that is one of the most horrible things I have every heard. Let me guess, she was super skinny & beautiful. What kind of person thinks that is ok? What kind of company would employ someone who thinks that is ok? I sure hope you complained to someone because they need to be held accountable for their unprofessionalism!
That is insane!
Wow! That is quite an experience. I have asked for extenders on too many flights to count and have never had a flight attendant do anything but discreetly hand me one.
I really think that you should address this with the corporate office. There is already enough fear amongst large size people that they’ll get kicked off of United. She really took advantage of that and terrorized you emotionally.
You handled it brilliantly!
I really hope you do call the company, and write a letter. What that woman did was inappropriate, unprofessional, and mean. I think she needs some sensitivity training at the very least. I have a couple four-letter words I’d like to use…
That is simply un-acceptable. How horrible and insensitive. I think you should inform United Airlines & let me know.
I am amazed at your composure! Keep up the good work.
My mouth literally gaped open as I read this. I would be calling the company and giving them a giant piece of my mind about what that bitch (yeah, I’m calling her a bitch) said and did to you. There is no excuse whatsoever for being treated like that. I’ve heard bad things about United before, but your story takes the proverbial cake. I can honestly say I will NEVER fly with them. Ever. Thanks for the heads up. I’m just sorry it took your being humiliated for the rest of us to know it’s not safe to fly with them.
I’ve had to ask for a seatbelt extender before too. Recently I went to take a required test for my teaching credential. I couldn’t fit in the desk assigned to me. The proctor made a big, huge scene about it so everyone in the room was aware I couldn’t fit. I bent in her direction and said through clenched teeth, “You are embarrassing me!”. There was no way she couldn’t see how pissed I was. She looked all hurt, like I shouldn’t have been mean to her. People are just clueless about weight discrimination. I think it’s the last acceptable discrimination. I guess we just don’t protest enough as a group! Honestly the flight person that humiliated you should be fired.
are you kidding me?!?!?! I dont even have any other words. ugh some people
What a horrible expereince.
Been there — felt that — and it’s so obnoxious of that flight attendant! I’m sorry you experienced it and I’m glad you were able to let it go and enjoy your weekend!
I am shocked at how offensive that is! I am so sorry for your experience.
Wow… So sorry to hear your experience! That was totally rude and uncalled for! I would have sent an email to the airline about that one.
What ever happened to the .. if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all rule anyway?
… like your hat in your pic by the way .. cute
I have never posted before, so I don’t know if there are unspoken rules, but when I read this I had to comment. I understand fully your frustration, and fear of flying. My husband and I live in TN, and fly to see my dad in California every year. And every year, I dread the plane ride. My husband loves sitting by the window, but I have a rule he had to sit in the middle, and I have to sit on the aisle or the window, if anyone else is sitting on the row with us. I created the rule, after my husband and I were seated in separate areas. This heavy man sighed as I moved past him to sit down. He grumble something, and then literally shoved the armrest down onto my hip. I have never felt so small or big in my entire life. I looked back to my husband, and luckily he was calling me back to set with him. (someone switched). I try to feel normal, I really do - but when things like this happens it so hard to feel anything other then awful.