A plus-size travel influencer has spoken out against what she calls “fat-phobic” critics who tell her to “lose weight” or pay extra for airplane seats — arguing that such remarks are offensive and strip her of her dignity.
Jaelynn Chaney, 28, from the Tri-Cities area in Washington, often posts content about “fighting for fat liberation” and has previously called for airlines to provide additional seats for plus-size passengers at no extra cost.
Recently, she took to TikTok to respond directly to a wave of harsh comments from people suggesting she should “lose weight” or simply “upgrade to first class” if she’s uncomfortable on planes. Some even compared her situation to baggage fees, arguing that if airlines charge for overweight luggage, she should also have to pay more for her seat.
Jaelynn was deeply hurt by those comparisons and didn’t hold back in her response.
“So now my body is being compared to luggage? Charging by weight is fat phobic and dehumanising. I’m not a suitcase,” she said.
She continued: “Paying extra for luggage is a different issue entirely. Let’s talk about fair, equal treatment for all passengers.”
Reported to be a size 6XL (UK 24), Jaelynn also clapped back at people telling her to diet, insisting it’s “not her job” to change her body to make others more comfortable.
“Oh so I should just change my entire body to accommodate your comfort? It’s not my job to shrink myself to fit into spaces that were never designed for me in the first place,” she said.
She added: “And let’s not even get into the fact that losing weight isn’t a simple fix, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.”
While some critics told her to pay more for first class, Jaelynn argued that the issue lies with airline design, not passengers’ bodies.
“First class is a luxury and guess what? First class isn’t big enough for some fat bodies,” she explained.
“The cost is way out of reach for most people and upgrading doesn’t solve the fundamental issue of under-sized seats for fat people in economy. Fix the system, not the people.”
Some even went as far as to suggest that if plane seats don’t fit her, she should stop flying altogether. Jaelynn strongly rejected that idea, calling it discriminatory.
“I’ll just stop living my life because the world isn’t built for me? Flying is a necessity for many people, whether for work, family or travel,” she said.
“Telling fat people to just stay at home is not a solution — it’s exclusion.”
She continued: “Sure, flying is a privilege, but basic human dignity and accessibility are rights. No one should be excluded from travelling comfortably or safely because of their body size. Let’s focus on equality, not exclusion.”
Jaelynn is now advocating for legislative change, urging the U.S. government to introduce a “Fat Equality Bill of Rights” and a “Fat Accessibility Act” to protect plus-size individuals from discrimination.
“It’s time to stop tolerating fat phobia and make travel, healthcare and public spaces accessible to everyone, no matter the size,” she said.
To support her advocacy work, she launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for what she calls “equal rights, dignity, and basic accessibility for fat people.”
In a passionate plea, she added: “We deserve to travel, live and exist without the shame or extra costs. Join me in the fight for a better future. Let’s dismantle fat phobia together.”
Her TikTok quickly gained traction, sparking thousands of comments — both supportive and critical.
One critic wrote: “Consequently it isn’t the world’s responsibility to accommodate your poor health choices.”
Another added: “Take responsibility for yourself. The world doesn’t revolve around accommodating your needs.”
A third person argued: “Well, the airline is gonna charge you if you take up space that could have been used for another paying customer.”
But not everyone agreed with the backlash.
One supporter wrote: “I’m a 6ft size 18 female… I have to squeeze LENGTH AND WIDTH! Your posts are so valid!!”
Another encouraged her: “Don’t listen to the haters, you don’t need to change.”
And one commenter shared: “You’re very inspiring. I’m plus size, very self-conscious, and trying to lose weight — but it’s hard because of my medical condition and mental health.”
