Gotta Fly-Embarassing Question

[LapBandit 5]

I've gotta fly next month for work. I've been working my butt off these last few months but am still scared to death that I won't fit into the seat. Has anyone else flown weighing 290? I read that the seats have a width of 17 inches on average. That is not very big at all...my butt is a lot wider than this! Oh my, what did I get myself into??? Any helpful advice, suggestions (other than lose 50 pounds in the next few weeks!) My flights are short, domestic flights with no first-class, just coach.

:help:

PS-What would I do without you guys? This is the only place in the world I feel safe enough to post a question like this and show my true weight!

[wavydaby 1]

You said you are 290. but what size pants are you in?

I found that when I was a 26, i had big issues, but when I was a 24(getting back there quickly) I was snug, but didnt have to get a seat belt extender.

[LapBandit 5]

Thanks Jill. Tonight I'm actually wearing my sister's old jeans-size 20!!!!!! (a major NSV for me!) I don't think I'm a 20 yet but for some unknown reason I was able to fit into this pair! Do you think I might be able to get away with this without total embarassment?

[wavydaby 1]

A 20? dang. thats a dream that I hope I can get to by Christmas.. I'm a week and a half out. Im 285 right now. I was about that last Nov when I flew to NYC. I didnt even need a seatbelt extender. Im 5ft 8in. How tall are you?

[LapBandit 5]

I'm not saying I don't look like a sausage in these 20's but they physically are on my body! Ha Ha! I am about 2in taller than you...probably 5' 10".

[Iluvharleys 15]

You'll fit just fine, relax and enjoy yourself! If you think you need an extender, request one ahead of time so you won't have to ask when you are sitting down.

[wavydaby 1]

Oh dude, you'll be right as rain.

[LapBandit 5]

You guys are great. OK-I can do this! Thanks for the quick replies!

[MizJudie 0]

Hi Lapbandit. I flew at 350 pounds this past July. When I first get on the plane, right when the flight attandants greet you, I always ask for a seatbelt extender. They are usually are very kind and either give you one right then or discreetly hand you one after you are seated. I do end up asking the person next to me if they mind if I put the arm up on the seat. I've yet had anyone be ugly about it.

But I'm a size 30. On this last flight, I measured that I needed to lose 4 more inches to not need the seatbelt extender any more. At a size 20 (even squeezing into it...woohoo for you by the way!!), you will probably not even need a seat belt extender. You will be fine. Have a great trip!

["Just" Paul 1]

I flew weighing 371. Wasn't comfy, but I flew. Needed a seatbelt extender, ask for this when boarding, and the attendant will bring it to you ASAP after the doors close.

[lisah25 3]

I flew in May and was OK. The seat was a little snug, but very doable. And I didn't need an extender. I was about 305 at the time(and I'm 5'4") , wearing a size 26 jeans.

[LapBandit 5]

Thank you all for sharing your experiences! I really appreciate it!

[jojo41 0]

I flew often for work at 275lbs and 5ft 7in (size 20) and never needed a seat bet extender....you will be fine

[Goannabanda 0]

Last time I flew I was a tight 26 - not pleasant, but I managed to sit at least. Forget about using the armrest radio when it's rammed into your leg! At a 20 - you'll be fine I would think. From memory (very distant) - the armrests didn't dig too bad, and no need for an extender then.

BUT, that said, I'm with the gang - ask for an extender as soon as you encounter the first hostess at the plane. That way, not as many fellow passengers notice. It's far less mortifying than having to ask once seated.

Then you'll have the bonus pleasure of handing it back once seated and you find you don't need it after all!

Happy travels!

[Parvathi 2]

I'm 5'7 and at my heighest weight (around 265), I flew. It was uncomfortable, but I was able to fit in the seat. Pity the person sitting beside me though LOL.

I could have used a seatbelt extender, but was too embarassed to ask for one, so stuck my coat on my lap and acted like it was fastened.

Good luck - you'll be fine :eek: