Flying Isn’t Easy for Everyone

Flying may be fast, but it’s far from convenient—especially for plus-size travelers. While most people gripe about cramped seats or tight legroom, Bo Berry, a plus-sized influencer, faces a more serious challenge every time she boards a plane.

In a viral TikTok titled “Flying While Fat – Lavatory Edition,” Bo revealed a problem that many silently endure: airplane bathrooms are simply too small.

“Forget needing two seats,” she said. “Accessibility is the real barrier—especially for long flights. I don’t fit in the standard airplane lavatory at all.”

She’s Not Alone

Bo’s video struck a chord. Many plus-sized and disabled travelers shared similar frustrations. They believe airlines prioritize profit over passenger comfort—designing planes that ignore anyone who doesn’t fit the average body type.

Airlines Shrink Bathrooms to Add Seats

Why are airplane lavatories getting smaller? Profit.

According to the Los Angeles Times, airlines now shrink bathrooms to add more rows of seats—boosting revenue at the cost of accessibility.

Gary Weissel, from Tronos Aviation Consulting, explains:

“Adding just one seat can earn an airline an extra $400,000 a year.”

Despite complaints, airlines won’t reverse the trend. Pilot Jimmy Walton agrees:

“You’ve added 12 seats and shrunk the bathroom by 75%. I can’t even turn around in it.”

No Bathroom, No Options

For Bo, flying has become a logistical nightmare. She must walk sideways down the aisle to avoid bumping into other passengers.

And she won’t use the bathroom—even in an emergency.

“My flight limit is about six hours,” she said. “Once, I nearly had an accident when my flight was delayed due to weather. That extra two hours nearly pushed me over the edge.”

Heated Reactions Online

Bo’s story went viral, sparking a firestorm of debate online. While many praised her honesty, others pushed back.

One Facebook user wrote:

“If you’re the only one affected by the aisles, maybe the aisles aren’t the issue.”

Another commented:

“Widening aisles isn’t the answer. Diet and exercise make more sense.”

Critics also added:

“Why should airlines redesign planes for people who refuse to lose weight? That’s selfish.”

What Do You Think?

Bo’s courage brought an uncomfortable truth to light. Now, travelers and designers alike must ask: should planes be built to fit everyone—or just the majority?

Have you faced similar challenges in the air?
Join the conversation and share your story.