Jean-Jacques Jauffret was humiliated by Air France staff when they measured his girth with wrapping tape.  This was done in front of other passangers on a flight from Paris to New Delhi. He was then forced to pay for a second seat. 

Air France was ordered to pay €8000 (approximately £5,720) in damages and reimburse the cost of the second seat. 

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,22807686-2,00.html

Well done Mr Jauffret.  This shows the airlines that they cater for people and not for measurement.