Originally Posted by jef7
But since people regardless of weight or size should not be excluded from the priviledge of flying, maybe it's time for airline designs including interior (wider seats) and safety (wider exit) rows to accomodate the widespread and increasing reality of 'bigger' passengers.
As a tall person (6"4'), I believe the exit rows should be designated to those who would find sitting in a normal seat difficult. I can physically fit in Qantas Y in terms of legroom (no problem width-wise), but it's not a very fun experience, and I certainly let the person in front who dares recline know the score with my knees (I don't kick it or anything, just leave them where they are. I am not making myself more uncomfortable than present for anyone).
I've never understood why the 'larger' passengers choose Exit Row though... you need the width, not the legroom. I haven't seen too many people my height and above who need both.
It's just a gripe I have, sorry, when you see either large (I am using this term hopefully in the politically correct sense) people in the exit rows, or short people who don't need them. Though hard to police, in a perfect society, the exit rows should be reserved for those who need them.
*Prepares for barrage of replies...*