Plus-sized traveler speaks out after wheelchair assistance refusal

However, some skeptics doubt the veracity of chaney’s assertions, suggesting that they may be embellished or strategically presented to garner public support.

Some people have expressed doubts about the incident, suggesting that it might have been a result of miscommunication or that the airport staff followed the rules rather than intentionally discriminating against the family.

Some people question whether the increasing online support is influenced more by social media dynamics rather than the complete understanding of the situation. This controversy brings attention to the heated and intricate discussions surrounding accessibility and size discrimination in travel.

prompting crucial inquiries about the distribution of responsibility and the extent to which the industry is willing to accommodate all passengers equitably. 

Travel influencer Jaelynn Chaney has accused Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Seatac) of blatant discrimination after she claims she was denied wheelchair assistance due to her size. 

The 28-year-old, who has a substantial following of over 140,000 on TikTok, initiated a demonstration at the airport, displaying a sign that read ‘wheelchair accessibility for everyone’ and uploaded a video detailing the incident.

Chaney, who wears a size 6xl, recounted a distressing incident while reaching Seatac in May 2024. She asserts that an airport employee designated to offer wheelchair assistance disregarded her request once they recognized her as the intended recipient. 

‘she looked at me, made a face, and walked away,’ chaney said in the video 

Despite being able to walk, chaney frequently asks for wheelchair assistance when covering longer distances. During this occurrence, she had to traverse one of the longest jet bridges she had ever seen. As she approached the wheelchair, she noticed her lips turning pale, her oxygen levels decreasing, and she felt on the verge of fainting. 

‘this was my first time flying without oxygen,’ she said This isn’t just inadequate assistance — it’s hazardous.

In her social media caption, chaney criticized seatac for what she describes as ongoing exclusion. ‘if seatac refuses to assist fat people, they should be upfront about their discrimination. Instead, they choose to lie, deny services, and leave disabled fat travelers stranded. 

She added, ‘this is unacceptable, and I refuse to stay silent.’. 

Chaney has been a vocal supporter of improved treatment for plus-size travelers, and this recent incident has further fueled her efforts.

In 2023, she initiated a petition urging the federal aviation administration (faa) to mandate all airlines to implement a ‘customer of size’ policy. Her suggestions encompass offering complimentary additional seating for bigger individuals, accessible seating alternatives, and enhanced training for staff members.

The petition has garnered over 39,600 signatures thus far, with numerous supporters recounting their own encounters with discomfort and fat-shaming during air travel. 

One commenter shared their experience, stating, ‘after enduring fat-shaming from the passenger sitting next to me, I made the decision to stop flying.’

Another commenter chimed in, saying, ‘I’m tall, and I still suffer from bruises from flights. I’m not fat.’ Airlines continue to reduce the size of their seats, but they expect us to simply accept it. 

Chaney asserts that the mistreatment of plus-size passengers is indicative of a broader issue: ‘people who are plus-size encounter pain, humiliation, and, in some cases, outright denial of service.’ This isn’t just uncomfortable — it’s prejudice. ‘Our results are unacceptable.’. 

Jaelynn Chaney’s encounter at Seatac Airport highlights the persistent difficulties faced by plus-size travelers. Her narrative—and the increasing number of signatures on her petition—illustrates that discrimination and insufficient accommodations are not isolated occurrences.

As the chorus of voices advocating for change grows louder, it becomes evident that airlines and airports must prioritize inclusivity and accessibility for passengers of all sizes.

The need for fair treatment isn’t solely about comfort—it’s about upholding dignity, respect, and ensuring equal access to vital services. Without significant changes, the cycle of exclusion and discomfort will persist, affecting numerous travelers like chaney.