Air travel has become increasingly frustrating - with many passengers complaining about 'seat squatters' who steal their assigned seats and refuse to move out of them.

Stories from passengers have gone viral online, sparking a debate over when travelers should give up their seats.

Donna Casey purchased a $4,300 Hawaiian Airlines business class ticket for her trip to Honolulu, but when she boarded her flight and approached seat 3C, she discovered someone in her spot.

'I told her nicely, "I think you're in my seat," and she just stared at me,' Casey told The Boston Globe.

'I said it again, and she said, "There are plenty of seats in this section, maybe try another one." I was like, "Is she for real?"'