Jaelynn Chaney, a plus-size travel influencer known for her advocacy for better accommodations for larger passengers on airplanes, has revealed a surprising dynamic in her interactions with critics. Despite facing shaming from “gym rats” on TikTok, these same individuals have been propositioning her for sex on Tinder. In a recent video, Jaelynn, 27, strutted confidently near an indoor pool in a white and green bikini, highlighting the hypocrisy of those who criticize her online but reach out to her privately.
Known as Jae Bae on social media, Jaelynn has amassed over 136,000 followers on TikTok. In another video, she shared a moment with her fiancé in a hot tub, revealing their polyamorous relationship. Addressing her critics in a clip, Jaelynn walked with a confident smile as the song “Nasty” by Tinashe played in the background. She pointed out the irony of gym enthusiasts trolling her comments while simultaneously messaging her on Tinder. “Make it make sense!” she exclaimed, emphasizing that societal norms of desirability are not as clear-cut as they seem.
Jaelynn’s followers were quick to support her, with many commenting on the fetishization of plus-size women by those who publicly shame them. Some commenters disagreed, suggesting that the interest shown by these gym enthusiasts might stem from unhealthy fetishes. Nonetheless, Jaelynn’s message was clear: she would not let the hypocrisy of her critics affect her confidence.
In another clip, Jaelynn showed a video of a woman and two men dancing together, followed by a scene of her and her fiancé kissing in a hot tub. She used this to highlight their polyamorous lifestyle, captioning the video with “Plus size, Polyamorous, and Queer,” accompanied by a smirk emoji.
Jaelynn’s advocacy extends beyond social media. She has previously called for free airplane seats for plus-size travelers, a stance she proudly maintained after flying without her oxygen tank for the first time in four years. In a video, she demonstrated the extension of her seatbelt and reflected on the challenges she faced flying with a breathing aid due to pulmonary hypertension diagnosed in 2019.
Her journey has not been without challenges. Jaelynn recounted a distressing experience at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport where an employee refused to push her in a wheelchair because of her weight. This incident left her gasping for air, highlighting the discrimination faced by plus-size individuals. Jaelynn’s account of this ordeal underscored the need for better accommodations and respect for all passengers, regardless of size.
To further her cause, Jaelynn created a Change.org petition in April 2023, demanding that the FAA protect plus-size travelers. The petition, which has garnered over 39,000 signatures, calls for policies ensuring that larger passengers are treated with dignity and provided with adequate seating arrangements. “Air travel should be comfortable and accessible for everyone, regardless of size,” she wrote, sharing her and her partner’s experiences of discomfort and discrimination while flying.
Jaelynn Chaney continues to use her platform to challenge societal norms and advocate for the rights of plus-size individuals, promoting a message of inclusivity and respect in all aspects of life.