July 9, 2018: The FAA has turned down a request from consumer action groups to regulate the size — and width — of airplane seats. Over the years, airplane seat size has shrunk from 18.5 inches to 17 inches — with a few carriers talking about taking away another inch. And yes, Americans bottoms are expanding along with their weight: The average man now weights 196 pounds and sports a 40 inch waist —and to give women equal rights, various health groups say the average women is about the same weight with a-waist size of 38 inches. Seat pitch — how far the back of the seat in front of you is has gone from 35 to 31 inches. The FAA says airplane seat size is something that should be worked out between the airlines and passengers — so, travelers, take some action!!!