Gaining

I know Ruby had one for a car. Another friend usually never wears a belt on the grounds it won't fit.

Yep....airplane seats have a way of making you feel way fatter than you think you are. They just are extremely small all together.

I've had to ask for them in the past and never really had much of a reaction. The only negative reaction I've had on a flight was from another passenger on a tiny commuter plane who was in the seat next to me. As soon as she saw me she panicked & couldn't switch seats quick enough.

Tommy, I always ask a stewardess for a seat belt extender when I first board the plane, either by the front galley or after I am seated. They are always very gracious in getting you one and do not make a big deal out of it. So you don't need to be embarrassed. Most seat belts on planes are surprisingly short, particularly since adults are getting fatter every year. I was pleasantly surprised two weeks ago when I flew on a new Airbus 320 and the seat belts were extra long. Did not need to request an extender. I also now have the challenge of not being able to lower the tray table in front of me since my belly is so big. So I fly Economy Plus whenever I can since there is more room between seats for the tray to come down. Newer model planes also now have a curve on the edge of the tray table so it fits around your belly more nicely. Airplane designers are starting to get their act together on newer model planes.