Will I Fit In The Airplane Seat? (Free Calculator)

If you are worried whether you can fit in an airplane seat, there are many ways to determine if you will fit within an airline’s seat size limits before booking your flight.

The easiest way to know if you will fit in an airplane seat is to measure your hips and waist, then compare those measurements to the airline seat width and seat pitch.

Below is a seat pitch and width calculator that you can use to find out if you can fit in those tiny airplane seats, plus some tips on what happens if you are too big for an airline seat whether you are traveling with Delta, United, or British Airways and to help you decide if reserving a second seat is the right choice for you.

Let’s kick things off.

How To Know If You Will Fit In An Airline Seat?

The first step to find out if you can fit within an airplane seat size restrictions is to measure yourself. 

You’ll need a tape measure and a friend or just a mirror to help you.

Here are the three main measurements you’ll need (no need for the seatbelt length in the calculator above):

Airplane Seat width

This is the distance between the two armrests of the seat.

To measure for the airline seat width, wrap the tape measure around your hips at the widest point and note down the number.

This is how much space you’ll need to sit comfortably without spilling over the armrests, or the seat next to you.

Airplane Seat pitch

The airline seat pitch is the distance between your seat and the seat in front of you.

To measure for the airline seat pitch, sit on a chair with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor.

Measure from your back to the edge of the seat and add a extra inches for legroom.

This is how much space you’ll need to stretch your legs and recline your seat without hitting the seat in front of you, and have enough room to use the tray table.

Airplane Seat belt length

The length of the airline safety seatbelt that goes around your waist.

To measure your seatbelt length, wrap the tape measure around your waist at the belly button level and note down the number.

This is how much length you’ll need to buckle up safely and comfortably.

Once you have these measurements, you can compare them with the airline seat dimensions of different airlines and aircrafts.

Usually the average airline seatbelt length is between 31 and 51 inches, but it will mostly depend on the aircraft model.

Choose The Best Airline And Seat For Your Size

After you’ve measured yourself then you can start looking for the best airline and seat for your size. 

Use the tool above to find an airline that offer more generous airline seating space, some airlines have more space compared to others when it comes to seat sizes. 

The measurement in pitch and width will vary by aircraft model and airline class but generally they will have an average size.

For instance JetBlue, and United Airlines are known for having some of the widest seats and most legroom in economy class, providing better airline seat comfort and airplane legroom for tall passengers.

Southwest airlines may have small seats on most of their airplanes (32-33 in pitch and 17.8 in width), but they have a customer of size policy that allows passengers who need more than one seat to get a refund for their extra seat after their flight, following the airline second seat policy.

To choose the best seat on a plane you can use websites like SeatGuru or SeatMaestro, which provide detailed seat maps and reviews for hundreds of airlines and planes variations including airline seating arrangements. 

You can also check the websites of individual airlines, which usually have a section on their airline seating policy for large passengers and options.

This applies to any airline, whether it is a major U.S airline like American, United etc.. or other international airlines like Emirates, Qantas or British Airways.

Remember that if you are not a fan of economy class seats you can always pay for a premium economy or business class ticket, which usually have more space and airline seat comfort than regular economy seats.

Do Airlines Have Weight Limits For Passengers?

Airlines do not have a standard passenger weight limit, however; there is a pending FAA Weight & Balance rule that aims to regulate the weight of passengers and baggage. This may be in response to the airline passenger size rules and the increasing global obesity rates.

In my opinion, this rule might be readily accepted by airline companies, because it will save them some extra money.

But it is not a convenient solution for them either.

They will need to find a balance that ensures everyone can travel, regardless of their weight or size. 

But right now some airlines may simply ask you to purchase a second seat.

It is better to avoid bulkhead and exit row seats as they are always much narrower in both economy and premium classes because the tray table and TV screen come out from the arm rest and emergency exit seat legroom may be limited.

Do Airlines Charge Extra Fees For Passengers Of Size?

No, but some airlines have strict policies that require passengers who cannot fit in one seat to buy an extra seat, known as airline extra seat purchase.

For instance, United and American Airlines charge passengers who need more than one seat the fare for two seats as part of their airline second seat policy.

To avoid these charges, consider choosing an airline that doesn’t charge extra for passengers of size like Southwest.

You can also bring your own airplane seatbelt extender, which is available for purchase online or at select airports, to ensure the airline safety seatbelt fits you comfortably.

Another strategy is to book your flight early and carefully select your seat.

The sooner you book your flight, the better your chances of finding a seat that suits your size and preferences, improving your airline seat comfort.

Websites like SeatGuru or SeatMaestro will help you find seats with more space, less noise, better views, or other features that matter to you.

Additionally, try to avoid seats located near the lavatories, galleys, or emergency exits, as they may have less legroom, limited recline, or increased traffic and noise.

If possible, select an aisle seat, as it provides more room to move around and easier access to the overhead bins.

Do large people Need To Pay For 2 Seats On a Plane?

Most airlines want passengers to have a comfortable and relaxed flight.

And If you can fit comfortably in one seat, then there is no need to purchase a second seat airline.

However, you will also need to consider the comfort of the fellow passenger next to you.

If you find out that you may need some extra space to move, consider paying for a wide seat or even an extra seat.

Final Thoughts

Flying can be challenging for anyone, especially if you are not familiar with the airline seat size limit.

However, if you use the with some preparation, research, and smart choices, you can find an airline seat that fits you and make your flight more comfortable and enjoyable. 

“everyone on this earth deserves the same opportunity to travel.” Jae Bae.

I hope this helps

Happy travels.

FAQs:

Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.