Plus-size travelinfluencer advocates for wider hotel hallways, as she extends her advocacy for inclusivity in the travel industry. Jaelynn Chaney previously urged fellow passengers to consider contributing towards extra seats for obese flyers, and now, she's turning her attention to hotels, calling for wider hallways to better accommodate larger guests. Chaney's mission is to promote greater inclusivity in travel and lifestyle, striving to create a more welcoming environment for everyone. In April, she initiated a petition directed at the US Federal Aviation Authority, seeking to enhance the comfort and accessibility of coach class for plus-sized travelers.
In her latest video, Chaney outlined several specific requests directed at hotels worldwide, including: "Make elevators and hallways spacious, to allow for easy movement of larger individuals and those utilizing mobility devices."
Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of raising toilet seats and equipping each room with handheld showerheads to ensure ease of use for individuals with larger body sizes.
Additionally, Chaney called for the installation of handrails around pool areas and the provision of sturdy, accommodating chairs for guests to enjoy their leisure time in comfort.
Her recommendations extended to include more robust beds, the availability of size-inclusive bathrobes extending up to 6XL, and the provision of plus-size friendly towels for guests.
While opinions on her suggestions varied, one commenter noted, "I agree this is ideal, but some of these are out of the hotel's control. Lift size, for example." Conversely, another supporter expressed full backing for her initiatives, stating, "I'm backing you 100 percent."
However, not all reactions were supportive of Chaney's requests. One critic remarked, "How are you gonna ask for things to change but you refuse to change yourself."
Another individual expressed a more nuanced perspective, stating, "I agree with some but others are just not possible. The amount of money it will take to make all of these changes is unreal."
Chaney had previously called for airlines to mandate refunds for overweight passengers who are compelled to purchase extra seats due to their size. In her petition, she highlighted the challenges faced by plus-size travelers like herself and her partner, citing instances of discrimination and discomfort during air travel. As of Saturday afternoon, approximately 4,300 individuals had signed her petition.
She went on to emphasize:
“„All plus-size passengers should be provided with an extra free seat, or even two or three seats depending on their size, to accommodate their needs and ensure their comfort during the flight.- Jaelynn Chaney
Transitioning to the topic of reimbursements, Chaney stated, "Airlines should offer a refund for plus-size passengers who purchase additional seats independently. This should be a straightforward process that can be accessed online or through customer service."
Chaney acknowledged that her proposed changes might result in higher ticket prices, potentially impacting non-overweight passengers as well, in order to fund these enhancements.
She shared personal experiences to underscore her cause, saying:
“„During a flight from Pasco to Denver, my fiancé was subjected to hateful comments, disapproving looks, and even refusal to sit next to them, amounting to discrimination. Similarly, on another flight, I was forced to occupy only one seat with immovable armrests that caused me pain and bruises.- Jaelynn Chaney
Through videos shared on her Instagram account, Chaney extensively documented her challenges with air travel, showcasing instances where she and her partner were tightly squeezed into seats and highlighting the inappropriate comments made by fellow passengers, such as inquiries about whether she had purchased two seats.
An Instagram post from Jaelynn Chaney of her in an airplane. In the video, text overlaid on the screen conveyed the conflicting perspectives she encounters: "They say it's not fair to the person who has to sit next me if I don't [buy an extra seat]. When I tell them I do, they say I'm selfish for taking a seat from another."
However, when Chaney is "forced to occupy only one seat," it often results in physical discomfort, chafing, and mistreatment from fellow passengers.
“„This mistreatment of plus-size passengers is unacceptable, and it highlights the urgent need for better policies that protect the dignity and rights of all passengers, regardless of size.- Jaelynn Chaney
Chaney further stated, "Unfortunately, plus-size passengers often experience discomfort and discrimination when flying. The lack of a uniform customer-of-size airline policy is unacceptable and must be addressed."
Currently, Chaney relies on seatbelt extenders to enhance her comfort during flights. She has not addressed why she doesn't opt for business or first-class tickets, which offer more spacious seats, although these fares are considerably more expensive than standard coach seats.
She also called for training for airline crew members on how to effectively accommodate plus-size travelers, including handling sensitive situations and delivering appropriate customer service.