In a significant legal challenge, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are being sued by disgruntled passengers who claim they were unfairly charged for 'window seats' that do not actually include a window. Over a million customers from each airline are involved in the lawsuits, which separately seek substantial damages for the alleged misleading practices during the ticket booking process.

According to the legal documents, the plaintiffs argue that the airlines do not provide adequate disclosure that certain seats, located next to structural elements like air conditioning ducts and wiring, lack windows. As a result, many passengers who chose these seats for various reasons—whether to alleviate a fear of flying, assist with motion sickness, or simply enjoy the view—are expressing frustration that they were not informed prior to making their purchase.

Legal representation for the cases, filed by the Greenbaum Olbrantz firm, describes the airlines' practice as deceptive, as both Delta and United label all seats on the side of their aircraft as “window seats,” irrespective of whether they actually provide a view. The lawsuits demand refunds for the extra fees charged to passengers who believed they were purchasing legitimate window seating.

While Delta has yet to comment on the ongoing litigation, United declined to provide a statement due to the nature of the legal matter. Unlike Delta and United, other carriers such as American Airlines and Alaska Airlines have implemented policies to clearly indicate whether seats lack windows during the booking phase, highlighting a growing concern over transparency and consumer rights in the airline industry.