Boss Takes Over Booking Flight, Has No Idea Employee Weighs 470 Pounds And Needs Extra Space

Flying is already stressful. There are tiny seats, crying babies, and that one person who insists on taking off their shoes. But imagine needing extra space on a plane and struggling to navigate company policies, all while trying not to make waves at a new job.

A new job can mean new opportunities, but for today’s Original Poster (OP), it also meant tackling a travel challenge that many wouldn’t think twice about. With a cross-country flight looming, they had to figure out how to handle their seating situation without stepping on their boss’s toes, who, despite good intentions, did not fully grasp the logistics involved.

More info: Reddit

It’s frustrating when people think they know what’s best for you, but in reality, they’re actually just making things worse

Person in red shirt struggling with airplane seatbelt, needing extra space.

Image credits: yaroslav-astakhov- / Freepik (not the actual photo)

The author was required to travel across the country for a new job but planned to pay for two seats due to their weight

Employee facing travel challenge due to weight, required to fly for new job with reimbursable expenses.

Text highlighting a 470-pound new hire's concern about flight seating, needing an extra seat for space.

Text image discussing a new hire’s plan to pay for an extra flight seat themselves for comfort and accommodation.

Image credits: swindeo

A new hire looking concerned, seated on a couch in a living room setting.

Image credits: stockking / Freepik (not the actual photo)

However, the boss had his own plans to pay for a seat for them without realizing how large they are

Text screenshot discussing a boss booking a flight without meeting the new hire in person.

Text about new hire's size perception and challenges with flight arrangements.

Text image about anticipating the need for a larger or extra seat on a flight.

Image credits: swindeo

Airplane seat, spacious interior with window view, related to extra space needs for new hire.

Image credits: prescott09 / Freepik (not the actual photo)

Now they aren’t sure what to do as they don’t feel comfortable arguing their case with the boss

Text excerpt discussing flight seat preferences due to space needs.

New hire panics over flight seating as boss unaware of extra space need.

A person holding a sign that says "Please help," highlighting concerns about flight accommodations.

Text conversation about travel accommodation concerns for new hire needing extra space on flight.

Image credits: swindeo

At the same time, the author is worried that they might be taken off the flight when someone complains

At 6 feet tall and 470 lbs, the OP knew that a standard airplane seat simply wouldn’t cut it. Understanding the situation, they were fully prepared to purchase a second seat or upgrade to first class to ensure their own comfort and avoid disrupting fellow passengers. However, their boss, who’s handling travel arrangements, wasn’t aware of just how necessary that extra space was.

To make things easier, the boss took it upon himself to book everything using the company’s corporate card. However, the problem was that the boss and the OP had never met in person, and while it was clear from online meetings that the OP was on the larger side, the boss didn’t quite get the reality of fitting into a single-airplane seat.

When the OP hinted at needing a second seat or an upgrade, the boss brushed it off, saying, “It’ll be uncomfortable, but that’s flying”. Now, the OP was faced with a tough choice: push back and insist on booking the right seating arrangement or stay silent and risk an uncomfortable experience.

New hire on a flight, seated and looking at a phone, in a row with extra space for comfort.

Image credits: Tahir osman / Unsplash (not the actual photo)

According to Smarter Travel, most airlines have policies to ensure passengers have enough space for comfort and safety, but these policies vary widely. Many airlines suggest that if a traveler anticipates needing more room, they should purchase a second seat during booking or opt for first/business class.

Some carriers may offer a discount or refund for the extra seat if the flight isn’t full, but in many cases, plus-size passengers must cover the full cost, which the OP was more than willing to do.

However, the OP feeling uncomfortable bringing up his concerns with the boss is something the Social Confidence Center provides insight into. They explain that people often hesitate to ask for their own needs due to fear of inconvenience, judgment, or guilt over having personal desires. However, standing up for oneself is neither selfish nor wrong, and everyone must be their own strongest advocate.

In fact, Forbes affirms that it is very important to ask for one’s needs in work settings. They highlight that effective workplace communication goes beyond simply exchanging ideas; instead, it ensures clarity and understanding. They suggest that successful communication involves recognizing employees’ unique needs and having a two-way dialogue where both parties are heard.

Netizens suggested that the OP should be upfront with their boss about their seating needs. Many emphasized that it was a practical issue rather than a personal one and suggested framing the conversation as a logistical necessity. Ultimately, the consensus is clear: honesty is the best strategy, and the traveler shouldn’t feel guilty for needing accommodations.

What would you do in this situation? If you were in the OP’s position, how would you approach this conversation with your boss? We would love to know your thoughts!

Netizens understand their reason for not wanting to argue their case with the boss, but they insist that they communicate clearly

Text exchange discussing travel seating challenges for a new hire needing extra space.

Reddit conversation about a new hire celebrating weight loss and a new job, highlighting congratulations and gratitude.

Flight attendant offers booking advice for extra space on flights, ensuring passenger comfort and safety.

Reddit conversation about needing extra space on flights due to large size.

Reddit discussion about travel accommodations for new hire needing extra space.

Text from an online forum discussing flight accommodations for new hires needing extra space.

“Advice for new hire needing extra space on a flight, suggesting to book an additional seat after initial purchase.”

Discussion on needing extra airline seat space due to weight for business travel.

Comment addressing flight issues for new hire needing extra space.

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