United Airlines Seeks Dismissal of Lawsuit Over Windowless Seats
United Airlines is requesting a federal court to dismiss a proposed class-action lawsuit that claims the airline charged passengers for “window seats” that do not actually have windows. The motion was filed in the Northern District of California, where United contends that the term “window” merely indicates the seat’s location within the aircraft rather than guaranteeing an exterior view.
In its legal documents, United’s attorneys stated, “The use of the word ‘window’ in reference to a particular seat cannot reasonably be interpreted as a promise that the seat will have an exterior window view.” They emphasized that “window” designates the seat’s position next to the aircraft’s wall, not a commitment to provide a view outside.
Details of the Lawsuit
This lawsuit is part of two separate legal actions initiated in August against both United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Each complaint alleges that the airlines failed to inform customers that certain so-called “window” seats on various aircraft—including the Boeing 737, Boeing 757, Airbus A320, and Airbus A321—lack actual windows.
According to court filings, the absence of windows is attributed to the placement of ducts, conduits, or other components essential to the aircraft’s structure. Plaintiffs in the case assert they paid additional fees for these window seats—some charging as high as $169.99—only to find blank walls upon boarding. Many travelers choose window seats for comfort, and to mitigate feelings of anxiety, claustrophobia, or motion sickness.
United Airlines further argued that its contract of carriage, which passengers accept at the time of ticket purchase, “does not contain any promise that seats in the window position of any aircraft will have exterior window views.” The airline also referred to federal regulations, noting that courts have often ruled that customers cannot pursue breach of contract claims concerning airline fees and surcharges, including those for more desirable seating options.
Reactions to the Allegations
Carter Greenbaum, the attorney representing the plaintiffs in lawsuits against both United and Delta, criticized the airline’s defense. He described United’s assertion as “contrary to the reasonable expectations of countless passengers who unknowingly paid extra money for windowless window seats.” In comments to media outlets such as People and Reuters, Greenbaum stated, “Consumers deserve better than empty promises and United’s word games.”
The allegations against United encompass several claims, including breach of contract, breach of implied contract, and promissory estoppel. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified damages, with a proposed trial date set for June 7, 2027. Both lawsuits aim to secure millions of dollars in restitution on behalf of over one million passengers per airline.
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome may have significant implications for airline practices and passenger expectations regarding seat descriptions and pricing.
