According to a recent USA Today article, a federal appeals court has gigged airlines for their constant narrowing of economy seats. It was in response to a lawsuit filed by the Flyers Rights consumer group.

One of the three presiding judges, obviously in sympathy for the ever-more cramped passengers, called it “the case of the incredible shrinking airline seat.” When you’re making flight plans, keep up on the news of how or if any positive actions will result from the lawsuit.

Then, as a senior passenger in one of the squeezed cheap seats, you’ll just have to grit your teeth and bear it. However, especially if you’re elderly, in a wheelchair or otherwise obviously physically challenged, you may be able to squirm out of the squeeze.

Before take-off, as boarding the aircraft is ending, check to see if there are empty seats in the higher-class sections. If so, politely ask the flight attendant if you may move to a larger, more comfy seat. You may be turned down or required to pay a higher fee, but it’s always worth the try.