02-15-2010
05:57 PM
Perhaps Southwest could've been more upfront with Mr. Smith regarding stand-by availability being contingent on two seats being available (to match what he purchased -- and also asking the FAs to block out two sidebyside seats just in case this largere standby passenger would need them)....
HOWEVER, I say CONGRATULATIONS to Southwest for not catering to some famous person (famous on way past laurels and needing attention to jump-start a "yesterday" career) and RESPECTING the other 100+ average folks passengers on the same flight. Personally, when traveling Southwest or any other airline, i first go for the exit row or bulkhead -- because the seats have a full metal divider (not just an armrest) so that I don't have to deal with some slob's oversized thighs smashing against me (I'm not tiny, at 6 ft 200 lbs but I make sure I stay in my seat).
Yup all the politically correct organizations for "people of size" can cry foul about how mean I am. I dont deserve to have to be in a fetal position or like I'm in a game of Twister for 2 hours -- all because some large person can't fit into one seat and bought a ticket knowing the airline's specific longstanding policies. (Who's gonna pay my chiropractor bill -- the large person advocate group, the large person and or the airline?).
Kudos to Southwest for politely and firmly sticking by its policy and respecting all passengers -- and not being bullied by a diva Hollywood type who's crying for attention regarding his fading career.
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