Jet2 is the UK’s largest package holiday provider and a go-to choice for a good deal on all-inclusive travel. Though they offer holidays, they also operate as a low-cost airline across Europe. Here, I’ll give an honest review of flying with Jet2 as a plus-size passenger, including the plane details and my size, to give you an idea of what your experience might be like.
Jet2 Review Details
Date of flight: Tuesday, May 21, 2024
Route: Liverpool, UK to Gran Canaria, Spain (4.5hrs)
Plane model: Boeing 737-300/800
Seat: 10D (aisle)
My Measurements:
I am a UK size 28 or US 24 and carry most of my weight in my hips and bottom (and have a big tummy).
Seat Size and Comfort
Jet2 Economy is the only cabin class offered on their flights. The only optional extra is to choose the location of your seat, with the prices changing depending on the location inside the cabin. I always pay to choose my seat as I prefer to sit in the aisle, so I’m not completely squashed in on either side.
The Jet2 seat pitch is 30 inches, and the seat width is 17 inches. There are three seats on each side and one central aisle (this has been the same on every Jet2 plane I have flown in).
The seat itself was a bit of a squeeze. My biggest problem with chairs is always my hips, and the armrests on this plane landed right where I’m widest, so they dug in quite uncomfortably! Thankfully, the armrests were moveable (though the one on the aisle didn’t move), and it was much better once they were up after take-off.
Even with the armrests up it was still a squeeze in the seat. Thankfully, on this outbound flight, the middle seat was empty, meaning that my sister and I (who I traveled with) could spread out over the row, making it a very comfortable flight. However, on my journey home on the same airline and same model plane, it was a full flight, and not having that extra middle seat made it far less comfortable. Having that empty seat is definitely a luxury that I don’t count on. I’m always holding my breath during boarding and praying that it’ll be a quiet flight with lots of space, and this time, we got lucky to get the extra space.
I couldn’t find anything online suggesting that Jet2 has a “passenger of size” policy, so I’m unsure if you would be able to purchase an extra seat. However, I expect you would have to pay full price if you did.
The seat belt wasn’t long enough for me, though it only missed out by a couple of inches. I am used to asking for a seat belt extender and always ask right as I get on the plane. The staff were polite and discrete, and I have never felt embarrassed to ask. I always make a point to give it back as I leave the plane (which always seems very appreciated). Never worry about asking for a seat belt extender – they are there for a reason and for your safety. I have taken many, many flights as a fat person and have never had a single issue (or judgemental look) from ANYONE.
Jet2 lacks a storage pocket on the seat back in front, which is super annoying. I like to have a place to stash my phone and any other personal items when I’m sitting down so I’m not constantly holding onto them. This does make it difficult to manoeuvre as a plus-size person, especially as my tray table did not fold down all the way.
It has been many years since I’ve had a tray table fold down flat for me. This one barely made it down at all, showing quite a small seat pitch for me as a larger person (however, it should be noted that my size 22 sister had no problems!). Thankfully, the middle seat was free, meaning we could use that seat’s tray table for drinks and snacks, giving us more space.
Snacks and Beverages
There was a fairly good selection of hot food and drinks available, with sandwiches, toasties, and pizza, as well as light meals like pasta and curry. The prices weren’t too expensive, with the sandwiches costing around £5 and hot meals costing around £8. Though we didn’t try any of the in-flight food (as I tend to get travel sickness), a lot of the food sold out very quickly, with the options becoming very limited as the crew made their way down the plane. I would strongly advise pre-ordering if you think you’ll want a bite!
However, we did splurge on a few alcoholic drinks to celebrate the holiday. There was a deal for any two wines, spirits, or cocktails for £11, which we very much enjoyed.
The prices for the snacks and sweets were on par with those at the airport, anywhere from £1 to £4, so nothing was too crazy if you forgot to pack any before you came.
For a short flight without meal or beverage service included, I was pleased with the options available. With a budget airline, you certainly get what you pay for.
Cabin Crew and Service
The cabin crew on this flight were very polite and friendly. Although there were only five or six staff members on this smaller plane, they dealt with customers quickly and efficiently and with warm smiles.
I have always had good experiences with Jet2 and have personally never experienced any issues with cabin crew. On this flight, the staff went out of their way to be helpful, and we had an enjoyable flight with them.
Ticket Price and Extras
This flight was part of a package holiday, so it’s tricky to give an actual price for just the flight alone. However, for context, I paid £420 (per person) for a 4-night hotel stay, including flights, transfers, and 22kg hold baggage. A similar flight for May 2025 costs around £250 return (at the time of publishing), with hold baggage costing an additional £39 per bag each way.
You need to pay to reserve seats, with the seats nearer the front costing more than the back. You can also opt for an extra legroom seat by paying to sit on an exit row. However, please note that you CANNOT sit on an emergency exit row if you need a seat belt extender. It states this when booking, so please keep that in mind!
Jet2 for Plus-Sized Passengers: My Conclusion
When it comes to catering to plus-size passengers, I think Jet2 is just okay. There was not a lot of space in the seat, either in width or pitch, and it was definitely a bit of a squeeze. However, it wasn’t so bad that I wouldn’t fly with them again. I do find their package holidays very convenient and well-priced, and I’ve always had great experiences.
They weren’t the worst or the best, but I think you get exactly what you pay for on a budget trip to Europe!
Related:
- Flying while fat and how to make it more comfortable
- The best seat belt extenders for plus-sized passengers
Cheap but a tight squeeze
While not spacious, Jet2 provides adequate service for its price point, making it an acceptable option for plus-size travelers on a budget. Seatbelt extenders were available without judgment.
The Good
- Affordable pricing
- Friendly and accommodating staff
- Movable armrests
The Bad
- Limited seat space (17 inches)
- No seat storage
-
Seat Size and Comfort3.5
-
Snacks and Beverages7
-
Cabin Crew and Service8
-
Ticket Price and Extras6