Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are facing legal action from disgruntled customers alleging deceptive practices regarding their 'window seat' offerings. Passengers report being charged extra fees for seats marketed as window seats, only to find themselves next to a blank wall during their flights.
The lawsuits, filed separately against both airlines, seek millions in damages, claiming that over a million affected customers were misled during the booking process when selecting these premium seats. According to the complaint, neither airline indicates that these windowless seats are offered in their respective planes, a crucial detail that could change a passenger's decision to pay the additional cost.
Counsel for the plaintiffs asserts that the practices employed by the carriers are "deceptive" and "unlawful." They argue that many passengers opt for window seats for various reasons—be it a fear of flying, the need to accommodate children, or the simple pleasure of a view from the sky. Some passengers contend that had they known the seats lacked windows, they would have chosen differently.
Court documents indicate that the problematic seats often occur due to the layout involving air conditioning ducts, wiring, and other structural components that inhibit window placement. While United Airlines refrained from commenting on the ongoing legal matter, Delta has yet to respond to BBC's inquiry. In contrast to these two airlines, competitors such as American Airlines and Alaska Airlines make it clear when a seat does not come with a view during the booking process.
The implications of these lawsuits could reshape how airlines disclose seating information, potentially leading to increased transparency in the industry.
