[Badray]

"I like the variable seat size idea -- but doubt very much that the airlines would be agreeable to retrofitting their aircraft with bigger seats."

Instead of retrofitting the existing planes, start doing it with the new planes coming into service. But let's think outside the box. Why do seats have to be in their current configuration? How about some sofa type seats that are installed lengthwise. Depending on (the planes) body width, there could be 2 or 3 rows.

Keep in mind that this is the first time that I have designed airline seating. Is there some physical laws that I'm overlooking? I am just nuts?

[flightman1]

Wow, I too am in tears. This is great. I'm writing a paper on the issue and this was fun to hear some people's comments. I think if the airlines charge double to obese passengers then I say if you can fit two skinny-asses in one seat they should only pay for ONE-SEAT! Yeah, let's hear it for the skinny asses! lol. Just kidding, safety issue I'm sure... just a thought.