HR0668 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0668 LRB104 17465 ECR 30891 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Commercial air travel is a critical component of the nation's transportation infrastructure and is relied upon by millions of Americans, including Illinois residents, for employment, education, family responsibilities, military service, medical care, and civic participation; and

WHEREAS, Over time, the average physical dimensions of American adults have changed, reflecting broader demographic and public health trends documented by federal agencies and medical professionals; and

WHEREAS, During the same period, many commercial airlines have reduced seat width, legroom, and seat pitch in standard economy cabins in order to increase aircraft capacity and revenue, while base fares and ancillary fees have continued to rise; and

WHEREAS, These reductions have occurred in the absence of clear, enforceable federal minimum standards governing passenger seating dimensions, leaving consumer comfort, safety, and accessibility largely unprotected; and

WHEREAS, Overly restrictive seating conditions can negatively affect passenger health and safety, including increased risk of circulatory issues, musculoskeletal strain, mobility limitations, and heightened discomfort during extended flights; and

WHEREAS, Such conditions disproportionately impact seniors, people with disabilities, individuals with temporary injuries, parents traveling with children, veterans, and passengers with medical or mobility-related needs, raising concerns about equity, accessibility, and dignity in air travel; and

WHEREAS, Many travelers are effectively required to pay additional fees for modestly increased legroom or seat width simply to travel in reasonable comfort, shifting the cost of basic accommodation onto consumers rather than incorporating it into standard service; and

WHEREAS, Transparent, fair, and accessible transportation policy benefits travelers, airlines, and the broader economy by promoting public trust, long-term customer satisfaction, and safe travel conditions; and

WHEREAS, Addressing airline seating standards is not a partisan issue, but a matter of consumer protection, public health, disability access, and responsible regulation that balances economic viability with the well-being of the traveling public; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we urge commercial airlines operating in the United States to adopt reasonable minimum passenger seating standards that reflect modern body dimensions and support basic comfort, safety, and mobility for the general public; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we call upon federal aviation and transportation regulators to study and establish minimum standards for seat width, legroom, and pitch informed by public health data, disability access considerations, and passenger safety research; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage airlines to ensure seating practices do not discriminate against or unduly burden passengers with disabilities or health-related needs, and that reasonable accommodation not be treated as a premium add-on fee; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we urge greater pricing and seating transparency, including clear disclosure of seat dimensions and legroom at the time of ticket purchase, so consumers can make informed travel decisions without surprise fees; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be delivered to the President of the United States, the United States Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, and all members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation.