Southwest Airlines is set to implement a significant policy shift that could substantially increase travel costs for plus-size passengers. The carrier will soon require customers whose bodies extend beyond the width of a seat's armrest to purchase an additional seat ahead of their journey.
Key Changes to the Extra Seat Policy
The new rule, which takes effect on 27 January 2025, marks a departure from the airline's current, more flexible approach. Presently, larger passengers have two options: they can pay for an extra seat at booking with the possibility of a refund later, or they can request a complimentary extra seat upon arrival at the airport.
Under the incoming policy, passengers identified as needing more space will be required to buy the additional seat in advance. The airline stated it is proactively contacting customers who have previously used the extra seat policy to inform them of this change. Southwest has defined the armrest as the definitive boundary between seats, meaning anyone who encroaches into the neighbouring space should purchase the needed seats prior to travel.
Refund Uncertainty and Assigned Seating
A critical point of concern is the refund process. While refunds for the second seat may still be possible if the flight is not fully booked, the guarantee has been removed. Southwest maintains sole discretion over both who must buy an extra seat and whether a refund is issued. If a passenger does not purchase the required extra seat before the flight, they will be compelled to do so at the airport. Should the flight be full at that time, the airline will rebook them on a later service.
This change coincides with another major shift for the budget carrier: the end of its iconic open seating system. From the same January date, Southwest will begin assigning all seats, with preferred seats or those with more legroom incurring an extra charge.
Industry Reaction and Passenger Impact
Travel experts have voiced apprehension about the new policy's wider implications. Jason Vaughn, a travel agent who runs the website Fat Tested Travel, told the Associated Press he believes the change will worsen the flying experience for everyone. He argues that without a guaranteed refund, many plus-size passengers will opt to try their luck with a single seat. This could lead to situations where not only is the larger passenger uncomfortable, but those seated beside them are also inconvenienced.
Southwest defended the move, stating in a release that it ensures the additional seat is available and serves safety purposes. However, the airline acknowledged that determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis, leaving some ambiguity about the exact threshold for requiring an extra ticket.
This policy revision is part of a broader series of changes aimed at boosting revenue. In the past year, Southwest has ended its free checked bag service, announced charges for extra-legroom seats, and revealed plans to introduce overnight red-eye flights.
