Big Fat Me and flying.

[TR_Wolf]

I hate to bring this up, but as silly as it seems, Im very fat, to the degree where it now is a special need.

We recently flew with Virgin on their Premium Economy service, but due to my big bum, the 21" seat width was still quite tight, as the arm rests dont raise... yet they do in Economy, and the tables came out of the arm rest, and so wouldnt go over my belly, but if they'd come from the seats in front... they do in Economy... it'd be okay!

Now, this time we're considering going with First Choice's Star Class Premiere, the price is very appealing, but Id rather go for their Premier service, which is their premium service, but their seats are 17" width with non-lifting armrests and the same armrest style tables... I wouldnt have a chance in hell!

So frankly Im not sure what to do, I mean Im tall too, so the legroom in economy might be bad, and Id LIKE the service available in premium, but I feel like I may be forced to go in economy, and hope we can get a third seat where we can use the table, extra space etc...

I knew I was fat, but when I went to Disney this time and found some of the rides wouldnt...accomodate me... Iit really has started to get me down, Im not sure what to do now, especially with the flights...

[Heather1957]

Adam I do understand your concern, in fact I was in PE last year and a 'large' man had to stand for most of the flight as the seat was so uncomfortable, it makes a huge difference being able to pull up the arm rests in economy.

I really don't know what to suggest re the flights apart from finding out as much info before you go ie phone the airline and ask for their opinion.

I'm one of the 'slimming dibbers' and please don't be offended if I ask you to join us - I say this as someone who really will only travel Virgin due to the slightly larger seats.

I've seen your holiday pictures and you seem so fun loving try not to let this get you down too much.

[bustersmum]

I have pmd you hoping I can help too.

[marionmcclung]

Hi Adam, i really don't mean to sound cheeky here but if your next trip isn't for a while yet is there no way you could possible loose a bit of weight?. I hope you're not offended if you have a medical problem but if not then just a bit of excersise would soon have you back in shape. It can't be very nice to miss out on some of the rides either and I understand how uncomfortable it must be for you on a long haul flight.

Again please don't take this post as being cheeky, it's just i really don't know your back ground or any health problems
Marion xx

[I love walmart]

Hi Adam, my DH is around the 20stone mark so I know from him how hard it is to lose weight, but is it something you have considered?
Obviously I don't want to cause offence, just think it is something worth considering if you are feeling a bit uncomfortable with it at the mo.
The other thing I thought is, can you actually purchase an extra economy seat? I always thought that if you were overweight this was a possibility. Sounds like an expensive option but you might get some good sales fares.

[bustersmum]

I am same my husband like I explained in my pm is large or was large he has a long way to go but I know he has lost just about 1.5 stones in 4 weeks.He is losing the weight cos he knows how much he suffered in the heat last time we went.I bought us a slow cooker wow it has turned us from processed food addicts I myself have lost 10 pounds in the 4 weeks with ease.
Going back to your fc question the width of the seats is about the same in premier and star class itself.Please try not to get down it is hard I know but you can do it and tonight you have made the first step by acknowledging the problem.
jo xx

[TR_Wolf]

Thanks for the weight loss replies Dibbers, but its not really an option. Im one of those people who is simply a fat person, I think its metabolism. Ive tried exercise, dieting etc, I used to be an expert line dancer (3 hours a night 3 nights a week for 4 years), andI go to the gym 3 times a week, yet I dont lose weight, I do it though because it keeps me active etc, done lipotrim, hypnosis, allsorts, I dont even eat that much, and Im quite active!

So thanks for all of your weight loss suggestions, but we'll have to discount them Im afraid, and accept that Im just a big chap!

[I love walmart]

I think a lot of internet surfing is called for then! Find out all the airlines that fly from the airport you want, then go on their websites and look at what their premium seats have to offer. You may find one with a precious extra few inches (an extra couple of inches can make a BIG difference ;) ) or maybe one whose armrests do go up, table in front, etc. The American airlines might be worth looking up.

[tinkerlink]

I know how you feel i went to Thorpe park a few years back and i couldn't ride the big rides unless one of the staff had to push my bars down with alot of force! I felt so down and embarassed but it gave me a push to lose weight i joined weight watchers with a few friends and i find it great can totally recomend this.

x alice x

[marionmcclung]

Thanks for the weight loss replies Dibbers, but its not really an option. Im one of those people who is simply a fat person, I think its metabolism. Ive tried exercise, dieting etc, I used to be an expert line dancer (3 hours a night 3 nights a week for 4 years), andI go to the gym 3 times a week, yet I dont lose weight, I do it though because it keeps me active etc, done lipotrim, hypnosis, allsorts, I dont even eat that much, and Im quite active!

So thanks for all of your weight loss suggestions, but we'll have to discount them Im afraid, and accept that Im just a big chap!

Have you spoke to your doctor Adam? I had put on about 2 stones over a year and a half and it turned out that I had an underactive thyroid. You should have this checked if you haven't already done so.

[Rebelrebel]

At the moment can't think of anything but just wanted to give you this {{{hugs}}}

[Minniesmum]

Hi, as you say it could be classed as a special need, im not sure if its any good but could you ring the special needs department of the airline you are thinking of booking with and see what the say they might be able to recommend a paticular seat or do you a deal for 2 seats.

Good luck and hope you can get sorted, let us know how you get on.

[ryhillrose]

Hi there,

Hope you dont take this the wrong way, but the last time I travelled with virgin the lady behind me was 'larger' than average and had purchased 'two' seats in economy and just lifted up the armrest in the middle. Would that not be an option for you? I know it may add to the cost, but it would probaly work out about the same than paying for 2 premium seats.

Good luck and best wishes
Sally

[bustersmum]

My hubby thought he was deemed to be big made too maybe a clue in what you say - Idont eat much - are you actually eating enough to get your body to a metabolising state? Breakfast do you eat it- most important meal of the day.Is there someone at the gym who can advice you better.My hubby could have typed what you did( cept the line dancing bit ) yet the whole key to it for us is eating breakfast
being prepared for a snack attack- cos it happens to the best of us.Is a lot of your weight muscle,do you have those disgusting drinks at the gym- you know the kind I mean I am sure,not saying you do but many gyms have them quite openly on display.
jo

[Rebelrebel]

I'm wondering if the new purple seats that are coming on the Manchester route soon are any wider???? I'm sure someone will know :)

[Twinkle Toes]

Have you thought about trying TCD in their upper or equivalent (can't think what it's called!) I hear that they are very generous on their seat pitch.

Good luck :thumbs-up

[whambar]

sent you pm

[digdisney]

First of all, Dont let it get you down. There will be a solution somewhere. Give Virgin a ring about buying a row of three seats for you both to share :thumbs-up.

[TR_Wolf]

Ok chaps, just to further... Ive had all blood, thyroid, petuitary tests, dieted, tried all methods, spoken to doctor, tried lotsa pills etc etc, Im just fat, plain and simple! Okay? ;)

But yeah I think I'll have to do the Economy thing (First Choice looks nice!), and either get 3 seats between me and Phil, or just see if they have a spare seat between us etc. Ah well, we'll see!

[Rebelrebel]

Good luck at getting your seats sorted, fingers crossed for you :).

[marionmcclung]

Hi again adam, I really hope you get your seats sorted out. Good luck and let us know how you get on :)

[sunsetlakes]

Hi Adam
We use TCD and upgrade to Excel one the seats not only have a great pitch but the width is good too - and very comfortable. They have some great deals and would probably be a lot cheaper than 3 seats on VA. The seating configuration is normal 2 to a row and the armrest lifts totally if you did need a little more space, although looking at your photo's you should be fine. Last year I made my DH chalk around my bum when I sat on the floor so I could measure exactly what it was when I was sitting down - we had such a laugh, anyway I needn't have worried. Excel one for us every time hey!!

[purple myra]

best of luck finding seats to suit....as previous posters have said, don't let it get you down....post holiday blues and january blues....aaaarrrgh!

p.s thanks for the trippies and photos they are fab x

[Big_Mark]

Don't know if this may help at all,
http://www.seatguru.com/charts/intl_economy.php

[TR_Wolf]

TCD's website arent very helpful when it comes to flight details, but I've never heard of Excel One, nor heard anyone talking about them. I must do some research!

[sunsetlakes]

TCD's website arent very helpful when it comes to flight details, but I've never heard of Excel One, nor heard anyone talking about them. I must do some research!

Adam Excel one is the new name for the upgrade with TCD - well worth a look!!

Good luck

Linda x

[Disneybumble]

Adam no advice just a big ((((((((((((Hug)))))))))))))))).

[florifan]

I have used the TCD sunshine first which I think is now caled Excel 1 and the seats are very roomy, also the american airlines tend to be a bit bigger seats I think

Which rides is Disney did you struggle with if you don't mind me asking, as I am always paranoid about this myself?

There is a website where you can buy your own seatbelt extension if you are too embarrassed to ask for one, or is it mainly the seat width you need

try and take some friends with you who have a small child you could sit next to economy, as that would solve your problem

[loadsapixiedust]

As you said in your first post Adam, it is really becoming a special need. Have you tried asking advice form the airline's special needs people? I'm sure you are not the first with this problem and they may just have some solutions.

Most airlines have seats allocated for passengers with special needs and some of those seats have extra room and completely removeable armrests, primarily to help passengers doing a sliding transfer from a wheelchair. Might that help you out? It's worth a phone call to see what is on offer.

[ukdiva]

You should check out the reviews on airlinequality.com , it has every airline you can think of reviewed on there, very handy!

[fluffybunny_15]

cant really provide any advice but just wishing you luck and sending a big hug....i kno what its like not bein able to lose weight...

[JoS]

Me too. Good luck.

[Denny Crane]

On a couple of Virgin flights, I have seen rather larger people who have difficulty fitting into the PE seats be allowed (when the seat belt warniong sign was not on) to sit in the flight attandants "jump seat" for a large part of the flight.

Re TCD premium services, they are going to be different this year as the 747's have been retired and replaced with smaller aircraft.
I know that this has affected the seat pitch in Economy back to 31" and the seat picth in the premium cabin will depend on if its a 767 or the Airbus
It may be well worth you ringing them up to find out what the width is going to be.

[Denny Crane]

Sorry I forgot to say, also have a look at the US airlines which fly out of airports in the UK.
They do tend to cater for the larger passengers

[kellie]

i cant really help on the airline seats.

i just wanted to say that i know its very hard to lose weight im not a little person and i did manage to lose 5 stone but ive gained back 2 1/2 of it.
im going to struggle with my weight all my life i guess.
i wish i could be more relaxed about my weight but i am again on a diet to shift the flab before my holiday and no will probably be miserable the whole time im dieting.

it makes a nice change to see someone who just says "this is me and im happy to be me" good on you.
there are so many people out there who think if your fat just dont eat so much, we are all different and its not always so easy for some.

i hope you find a solution to airline problem


good luck

kellie

[queenofthenile]

If if was me I would book with travel city, but only on the 767, then you could go what was there sunshine first plenty of room in the seats the only difference form there 747 service is you get 45" insteadd of 50" of legroom.

[fintywalker]

no more advice to offer sorry!! but welcome to the Dibb from a fellow Boltonian

[pchivvy]

Would recommend tcd upgrades, we went sunshine first, which has now been replaced by excel one. The seats were fab, and tbh there were a few in this area who were slightly larger than the average and who I expect booked it for that reason. None of them appeared to have any trouble. Have a look at TCDs flight upgrade page for an idea of what you get. Be warned though, if you do it this way once, you will never want to do it any other way!

[Joolie Peaches]

My hubbie is a hunk like you are and we flew TCD economy last year and he was fairly comfortable. As well as having "more to love" he's also 6ft 2 and he was quite comfortable although he is a terrible fidgit!

I'm sure you will be fine and I've been turned away from the Back to the Future ride before and understand totally how you feel!

I need to lose some weight before I go too, now where's that slimming thread..... ;)

[envoguemia]

I do not understand why Virgin and other airlines dont cater more for larger people. Ok i know more seats means more money but what about the sets of two seats at the back of the aircraft, is that not the perfect place to put two wider seats in and perhaps make a surcharge. Being large is not anything unusual these days and it should be catered for the same as carrying an infant.

Have you thought about asking this question on one of the american forums as they do tend to be larger and perhaps have more information of what airlines offer?

[TR_Wolf]

I'm inclined to disagree.

I phoned XL who told me in economy, although the armrests lift, the seat width is 17.5", and in XL one it is 18", which is not good, as Virgin Economy was 21" width, and still too tight! I need a 24 or 25 and it'd be perfect!

[ambersmom]

Adam, on our last flight we flew with American Airlines economy, their seats are a lot wider and much more leg room than any uk economy seat we have had, and the arm rest lifted up, there wasnt much in it between Virgin PE and the seat we had apart from price,

Their business class seat was fantastic, i tried it out for size as we were getting off plane, it was huge, my rather large backside got lost in it

[Fiona]

I would try and go with one of the American carriers as their seats and leg room tend to be bigger than the British carriers. I think your photos are lovely and I honestly don`t think you look as big as you think you do!! :-) I put on weight terribly easily and am very sensible with what I eat all week and then eat what I want at weekends. I am a size 14 and 5`2" so any weight I put on shows very easily because I am short. I hope everything works out for you. :-)

[Villainlover]

Just wanted to say that I flew in Economy with First Choice and the seats are exactly the same width as in premium..

the legroom is three inches less I think but the width is the same. both cabins are 2-3-2

I will see if i can get some photos on


http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g250/villainlover/IMG_3333.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g250/villainlover/IMG_3329.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g250/villainlover/IMG_3857.jpg

[chattychick157]

http://www.firstchoice.co.uk/starclass/
&
http://www.firstchoice.co.uk/info/widerseats.html

dont know if this helps any :)

[Janerie]

Hi
we went to Lapland a couple of years ago with first choice I found that on the normal airbus 300 or what ever it is the seats were really close together but I could get in the seat without lifting up the armrest( couldn't get the tray down but could sit in the seat ;) ). I am a very large lady. This year I've gone for First choice premiere and just praying these are bigger( i know the arm rest doesn't lift up). At least you can walk around. On the flight to Lapland with only one aisle it was a squeeze for most people if they wanted to go to the toilet or stretch their legs.

[ChastMastr]

Hugs from me too! And an early happy birthday from a fellow bear. :sulley

David

[Katherine]

My hubby thought he was deemed to be big made too maybe a clue in what you say - Idont eat much - are you actually eating enough to get your body to a metabolising state? Breakfast do you eat it- most important meal of the day.Is there someone at the gym who can advice you better.My hubby could have typed what you did( cept the line dancing bit ) yet the whole key to it for us is eating breakfast
being prepared for a snack attack- cos it happens to the best of us.Is a lot of your weight muscle,do you have those disgusting drinks at the gym- you know the kind I mean I am sure,not saying you do but many gyms have them quite openly on display.
jo

Hiya,

When I loose the most weight at Slimming World is when I eat more!!!!! You may not be eating enough!! Its hard as I,m a very large lady and a chef!!! so food is always there......just try and make a few changes for a week to see where it gets you....no offence meant.... :smile:
Good luck... :thumbs-up :thumbs-up :thumbs-up

[Fiona]

My friend Alison doesn`t believe in the theory that if you don`t eat enough your metabolism slows right down and you end up not losing weight. She always says what about when people were starved in concentration camps in the war, the starving in Africa etc. Their metabolisms didn`t seem to slow down, they were/are incredibly thin. I do see her point there. If I don`t eat very much, then I always lose weight and it stays off too. I went through a phase when I was 16 of not eating very much and the weight dropped off and I went down to 7 and a half stone. Size ten jeans hung off my waist!!

[dawn ann]

hi where do i start i have lost near 2 1/2 stone since sep last year our first trip is planned and booked for july 09 and i thought to myself right this is it u aint going fat , so i am taking it 1/2 stone at a time and hay presto its working this time so don't b affendid when i say this but if i can do it u can to and good lk if u want to chat i am here xx

[eileenhoops]

Hi all

im a large woman uk size 28-30 so have got some advice from some kind people on here and one sent me this link , thanks hun xx gonna share it with other big people to put thier minds at rest





http://www.allearsnet.com/tp/rid_josh.htm

[tinks75]

Hi

I can totally empathise, I'm 33 and feel like i've been on a diet my whole adult like. I just don;t want to do it anymore.

Hope you get this sorted out soon.

[buffalo]

Good luck with sorting it out. It will be well worth all the hassle when you get there!

[BevS97]

TCD describe their XL one seats as 'extra wide', 1/2 in wider doesn't really sound like Extra Wide to me, so I'd have to question if the person you spoke to has got that right?

http://www.travelcitydirect.com/florida/flying-with-us/upgrades/

[Lesley_Perschky]

I hate having to ask for the extended seat belt!