6’3″ Ira Goldman invented the Knee Defender and people love him for it. Except for the people who hate him for it. The Knee Defender is a simple little invention–a couple of clips that keep the person in front of you from reclining their seat on an airplane. Space is at a premium–and getting tighter all the time–on commercial flights. Goldman just thought enough is enough. The popular do-it-yourself space maker caused a diverted flight this week after two irate passengers brawled over its use. Debate about Knee Defender etiquette and legality ensued.
The US FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) hasn’t banned the device. But airlines like Air Canada have cracked down. There’s not a single flyer who likes their space encroached by a reclining seat in front of them. But fair is fair and that person paid for his seat and the right to recline in it. Same right you have in your seat. Anti-bullying campaigns should get on board, so to speak, with protesting the use of the Knee Defender. That’s the kind of person who uses it–a bully. If that’s you though–you can get one here for $21.95.
