A new class-action lawsuit is shining a spotlight on airlines’ increasingly aggressive upselling tactics, specifically, the practice of selling “window seats” that don’t actually have windows.
Millions of United and Delta Air Lines customers are suing the carriers for labeling seats against a blank wall as window seats, arguing they paid for a feature that wasn’t there.
United, however, told a federal judge that passengers are being unreasonable: in its view, “window” simply refers to where the seat is located, not whether it offers an actual view.
Many flyers took exception to the claim that they shouldn't expect what these companies sell to them.
United and Delta say "window seat" is a location, not a guarantee
In August 2025, lawyers representing millions of angry United and Delta customers filed two class action lawsuits against these companies. They claim that the airlines misled them by labeling their ticket as a window seat when there was, in fact, no window by their seat.
At least one spot opposite the aisle seat is against a blank wall instead of a window in many Boeing planes due to the necessity to cover something like air conditioning ducts or electrical conduits. Other airlines warn ticket purchasers when this is the case with their seats, but United and Delta do not.
On Nov. 10, 2025, United Airlines asked the federal judge assigned to the case to dismiss it on the grounds that nobody should expect "window" to mean "window."
"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," the company argued.
"Rather, the word ‘window’ identifies the position of the seat — i.e., next to the wall of the main body of the aircraft."
Those who bought tickets for seats like this actually do think it's reasonable to interpret the word "window" consistent with its dictionary definition. Lawsuit attorney Carter Greenbaum thinks United's argument is what should be dismissed.
"Customers deserve more than empty promises and United’s word games," he told PEOPLE.
"As airlines have begun charging for services that were once free, passengers should at least expect upfront disclosure of the fees and that if they pay an extra fee, they will get the product they paid for."
Online backlash grows as United defends its interpretation of "window"
As word spread to X, the vast majority of commenters also balked at United's "word games." Many wondered why these companies don't simply change the wording on the ticket, while others raged outright against cynical corporate ploys to extract more cash from customer pockets.
"They now dare to say it openly: pay for the window, but don’t expect the world beyond it," wrote @orsassur. "A corporate creed forged in the dark chambers where accountability goes to die."
"What's next? People who pay for plane tickets are not entitled to be flown to their destination?" asked @HrZagor.
Frustration against corporate shenanigans appears to cross political aisles as some connect United's behavior to the power structures that rule our lives.
"Corporations, particularly airlines are increasingly becoming more obnoxious and brazen about ripping off and mistreating customers," said @kulpsmom. "They don't even care anymore because they know their friends in high places protect them."
"If I pay for a window seat I 100% chose that seat so I can look out the window," argued @callme_Chari. "So yes I 100% expect to be entitled to a view."
The Daily Dot has reached out to United Airlines for comment via email.
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