Hi all,

I need to book my flight to Mexico to get my band, my husband thinks I'll need to go first class because the seats are roomier and I'm sure it would be so much more comfortable, but it is almost TWICE as much as seats in Coach. I was wondering how many travel coach and get along ok and how many have to get the more expensive ticket. I've got a little over 100lbs. to lose. any feedback would be appreciated..

Rett

I've only flown 1st Class once due to an employee discount. The coach seats differ from airline to airline but I was fine in all of them, even at 274 pounds and 5'6" tall. If you're concerned about the seatbelt fitting, you should quietly ask one of the flight attendants upon boarding for a seatbelt extension.

I flew coach (and had well over 100 lbs to lose) and did not even have to ask for an extension. You should be fine. Now of course, first class is nicer and if I had it to do over, I would have upgraded to first class on the return trip, but going was no problem.

I flew on American Airlines and had no problem in coach, either going or returning. At the time of surgery I had about 125 pounds to lose and asked for a seatbelt extension - but didn't need it. I asked for it because I have flown on American in the past and did need the seatbelt extension. I don't think all the belts are the same length.

I didn't feel uncomfortable on the return flight in coach, but I should add that I had very little post-op pain and was out site-seeing 48 hours after surgery.

Good luck on your trip and your weight loss journey.

Depends on the airline. E.g. every seat on Midwest is a first class seat, but they don't route to MX.

To answer your question, yes - there is a big difference. Not just in seat, but in service & ammenities. I fly 1st whenever I can, I usually have enough business miles to get free upgrades, and I can use them for personal travel. If you can afford it, go for it. Yeah, maybe you can fit in a coach seat just fine, but it's not just width that matters. 1st class also has more leg room, more space to the seat in front of you, etc. With post-op discomfort, IME that will all be worth its cost if you can afford it.

Check out www.seatguru.com. You can look up plane types and get details on seat widths, pitch, etc. It will also suggest which seats to book on any particular plane. I've found that site invaluable.

I like the advice from the previous post. Get the 1st class on your return flight. I am sure the elbow room would be appreciated. Shawn