When is it the best time to ask for a belt extender.
Nov 28, 2019, 10:58 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2019
Posts: 2
When is it the best time to ask for a belt extender.
I’m going to be flying United for the first time since I was in middle school, some 12 years ago. I’m wondering because I’ve gotten bigger I’ve already booked an extra seat and I’m certain I’ll need an extender. When is the best time to ask for an extender? When I’m boarding and the FAs are at the front of the plane, or when I’m in my seat should I wait and see if a FA is around or should I get to my seat and push the call button?
thanks
thanks
Nov 28, 2019, 11:30 pm
#3
Suspended
Join Date: Oct 2016
Location: PDX
Programs: AS DL
Posts: 9,038
I agree. Ask early if you know you need it. If you haven't flown for a few years and don't know for certain, try the seat belt first, then ask.
Sometimes, you can ask but they won't give it to you until after they have done the safety demonstration. Some flights have a video demo so they'll give it to you right away.
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Sometimes, you can ask but they won't give it to you until after they have done the safety demonstration. Some flights have a video demo so they'll give it to you right away.
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Last edited by StartinSanDiego; Dec 2, 2019 at 8:22 am Reason: overly personal
Nov 29, 2019, 2:14 am
#4
Join Date: Dec 2001
Posts: 343
If I know for sure I'll need an extender, I ask the first FA I come across on my way to the seat that is not greeting at the door.
Try to board as early as you can as it saves a lot of faff at the seat if you get sorted before someone is already sitting next to you and it gives the FA's time to respond (they don't keep extenders handy).
There doesn't seem to be a standard across carriers for the length of the seat belt so try and see.
VS in particular seems to be a shorter length than UA/BA/QF/EK if it helps.
Try to board as early as you can as it saves a lot of faff at the seat if you get sorted before someone is already sitting next to you and it gives the FA's time to respond (they don't keep extenders handy).
There doesn't seem to be a standard across carriers for the length of the seat belt so try and see.
VS in particular seems to be a shorter length than UA/BA/QF/EK if it helps.
Last edited by The_Diamond_Z; Nov 29, 2019 at 2:22 am
Nov 29, 2019, 2:06 pm
#6
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Amelia Island FL
Posts: 66
Had this exact situation today on SWA going from BWI to JAX. Big guy came on in group C and took the middle seat in the exit row. Asked the FA for an extender and they told him if he needed that they would have to move him out of the exit row. They found another empty seat for him.
Nov 29, 2019, 3:41 pm
#7
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: on the path to perdition
Programs: Delta, United
Posts: 4,785
Welcome to FT.
I would proactively ask for an extender when you board the plane and are greeted by a FA. They may be able to get you one immediately. Otherwise, give them your seat number as they will brig one to you. If you get to your seat and do not need it, when the FA passes through cabin again give it back.
Props on proactively booking an extra seat. Your seat mate will appreciate that.
I would proactively ask for an extender when you board the plane and are greeted by a FA. They may be able to get you one immediately. Otherwise, give them your seat number as they will brig one to you. If you get to your seat and do not need it, when the FA passes through cabin again give it back.
Props on proactively booking an extra seat. Your seat mate will appreciate that.
Nov 29, 2019, 7:37 pm
#9
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Join Date: Dec 2001
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Ask when they close the door and go down the aisles checking on seat upright and storage under seat. They know that they can't clear the departure with the cockpit unless they provide you with the means to buckle up. The aisles then are clear of boarding passengers so it only takes seconds to provide at that time.
Nov 29, 2019, 9:12 pm
#11
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: YVR
Programs: AA
Posts: 872
Welcome to FT.
I would proactively ask for an extender when you board the plane and are greeted by a FA. They may be able to get you one immediately. Otherwise, give them your seat number as they will brig one to you. If you get to your seat and do not need it, when the FA passes through cabin again give it back.
Props on proactively booking an extra seat. Your seat mate will appreciate that.
I would proactively ask for an extender when you board the plane and are greeted by a FA. They may be able to get you one immediately. Otherwise, give them your seat number as they will brig one to you. If you get to your seat and do not need it, when the FA passes through cabin again give it back.
Props on proactively booking an extra seat. Your seat mate will appreciate that.
Dec 2, 2019, 12:35 am
#12
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2019
Posts: 2
Thank you all for the responses. I’m a lot more comfortable. Firstly, male. Secondly I wasn’t necessarily seeking health advice as I am on a doctor regulated diet. This trip just suddenly came up whilst on this aggressive diet. Thirdly made sure I wasn’t in an exit seat.
all in all, thank you guys for the help!
all in all, thank you guys for the help!
Dec 5, 2019, 1:58 pm
#13
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I mean, I know it's a simple gadget, but still...
Dec 5, 2019, 2:50 pm
#14
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Ask when they close the door and go down the aisles checking on seat upright and storage under seat. They know that they can't clear the departure with the cockpit unless they provide you with the means to buckle up. The aisles then are clear of boarding passengers so it only takes seconds to provide at that time.
Dec 6, 2019, 2:22 am
#15
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I don’t think I agree with this. They don’t have a lot of them on a flight. If they’ve been passed out before the OP asks it’s a bit late after the door is closed. Better to ask early I think. If they gave to get another I suspect it’s a lot easier at the gate with an open door.