Southwest Airlines is set to implement a significant change to its passenger seating policy, a move that will directly impact plus-size travellers. From 27 January 2025, the carrier will require passengers who cannot comfortably fit between the armrests of a single seat to purchase an additional seat in advance.
What the New Policy Means for Passengers
This updated rule marks a definitive shift from the airline's previous, more flexible approach. The old policy allowed larger passengers two options: they could pay for an extra seat upfront and receive a refund after travel, or they could request a complimentary extra seat upon arrival at the airport if space was available.
Under the new system, the process is more rigid. Passengers must now buy the additional seat ahead of their flight. Crucially, a refund for that second seat will only be issued if the flight does not reach full capacity. If a passenger boards a flight without the required extra seat and the aircraft is full, they will not be permitted to travel and will instead be rebooked onto a later service.
Industry Reaction and Broader Changes
The policy shift has drawn criticism from advocates for plus-size travellers. Jason Vaughn, a travel agent who specialises in plus-size travel, has voiced concerns. He believes the change will create a more stressful and negative flying experience not just for larger passengers, but for everyone onboard, potentially leading to uncomfortable confrontations during the boarding process.
This seating policy revision is part of a wider suite of changes for Southwest. Coinciding on the same date—27 January—the airline will also terminate its long-standing open seating policy. It will move to assigned seating, with fees applied for preferred seats. This follows another recent cost-cutting measure: the end of the airline's popular free checked bag service.
Looking Ahead for Airline Passengers
The combined changes signal a move by Southwest towards a revenue model more aligned with other major US carriers, prioritising ancillary fees. For plus-size passengers, the new mandate introduces greater financial certainty in one respect—the known cost of an extra seat—but removes the safety net of a guaranteed refund or last-minute accommodation.
Travellers are advised to review the airline's specific size guidelines and plan accordingly for any journeys booked after the 27 January deadline to avoid disruption at the gate.
