Overweight? You should pay more to fly

More than 70 per cent of holidaymakers reckon overweight air passengers should be made to pay for an extra seat on flights, according to a survey.

Men were more concerned than women about obese fellow travellers, the poll of 6,000 people by price comparison site TravelSpec.com found.

As many as 75 per cent of men and 68 per cent of women believed that overweight passengers should pay double.

Lack of space on a flight was the biggest bone of contention for travellers, with 32 per cent complaining about inadequate leg room and mobility while flying.

The poll also found that babies crying and restless passengers were also aggravating for UK travellers. Asked who they would least like to sit next to on a flight, 67 per cent said people with body odour.

Despite reported discomfort while flying, only 13 per cent of those polled said they would pay to upgrade to first class.

TravelSpec.com managing director Rafi Neumann said: “At a time when people are less financially secure and holidays have become very precious, British travellers look forward to a relaxing experience.

“The majority of passengers don’t have the budget to upgrade to business or first-class seats and consequently have to forego comfort on flights, often resulting in a stressful start and end to their holiday.