this is bollocks
unless you're talking about a small prop plane (which would probably only have about 4 or 5 spaces anyway) - if anybody asked 4 or 5 fat people to leave a plane I was on because otherwise it won't take off, then I'd be right after them.

The most they'll ever do is ask heavier people to sit nearer the wing or, if there is a problem with one of the holds, ask them to sit on the opposite side of the plane
( likeajackhammer, Fri 28 May 2010, 13:35, 1 reply)

Speaking from a position of utter ignorance
I would assume that various models of plane have a maximum weight they are permitted to carry - probably set somewhat below the point that safety would become an issue. If the combined weight of people+baggage exceeded this, wouldn't it be fairly likely that a few passengers+associated baggage would have to get off, just to get back below the numbers insisted upon by insurers (or whatever)?
( Happy Phantom has been to Hastings, Brighton, and Eastbourne too, Fri 28 May 2010, 14:59, closed)

but if the aircraft was skirting that close to the maximum weight that 4 people would make a difference
then I'd rather not fly with them
( likeajackhammer, Fri 28 May 2010, 16:33, closed)