Delta and United Face Lawsuits Over “Windowless” Window Seats, Millions Could Seek Refunds

Passengers Sue Over Misleading Window Seat Charges

Delta Air Lines and United Airlines face class-action lawsuits for charging passengers extra for window seats that lack actual windows entirely. Passengers argue airlines mislead travellers by failing to disclose that some seats, while sold as window seats, sit against blank walls.

The legal claims, filed by Greenbaum Olbrantz, seek millions of dollars in damages for over a million affected customers per airline.

Windowless Seats Hidden on Boeing and Airbus Jets

Court documents state seats near air conditioning ducts, wiring, or other aircraft components lack windows, yet airlines still charge premium fees. Passengers buy window seats for comfort, motion sickness relief, child distraction, or simply to enjoy scenic aerial views during flights.

Delta and United allegedly describe all side seats as “window seats,” even when some clearly do not provide any window visibility.

The lawsuits contend airlines committed “intentional misconduct” by charging higher fares for seats marketed as window seats without disclosure. United’s 737-800s may feature four windowless Economy Plus seats, while 737-900s include between one and five seats without an actual window view.

Ancillary Fees and Industry Practices

Preferred seat selection is a growing revenue stream, with many carriers charging extra for front-cabin, window, or extra-legroom seats on flights. Some passengers pay as little as $15, while others spend over $150 for a window seat, making misrepresentation a serious financial concern.

Other US airlines, including Alaska and American Airlines, clearly flag windowless or partially obstructed seats during the booking process for transparency.

Windowless Seats Spark Public Outrage and Memes

Delta and United are not alone facing criticism for windowless seats, as other airlines have also frustrated passengers over similar seating issues. Ryanair, for example, gained online attention for its notorious windowless 11A seat, which became a widely shared meme highlighting passenger complaints humorously.

Lawyers representing affected travellers have described the practice as “deceptive” and “unlawful,” reinforcing the importance of honest seat disclosures for paying customers.