Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are facing proposed class action lawsuits after passengers claimed they were duped into paying more for 'window' seats that turned out to have no windows. The suits filed on August 19 seek millions in damages, potentially covering more than one million travelers per airline. The allegations center on seats aboard Boeing 737, Boeing 757, and Airbus A321 aircraft, where design elements like air conditioning ducts or electrical conduits have replaced the windows.
The complaints argue that while competitors such as Alaska Airlines and American Airlines flag such seats during the booking process, Delta and United do not. Instead, the airlines continue to market them as premium options, often charging passengers tens—or even hundreds—of extra dollars.
So, how do airlines really decide which seats cost more—and how can passengers avoid paying extra just to stare at a wall? Many travelers are willing to spend more for a window seat, hoping for a view, natural light, or a calmer flight experience. Others prefer the aisle for easy access or to stay close to companions. Yet with airlines charging premiums even for seats that lack windows, this practice feels less like added convenience and more like a frustrating money-making tactic.
Resourceful passengers, however, have found a way to work the system, dubbing it “check-in chicken.” Click through this gallery to learn everything you need to know about this nifty, money-saving travel hack.