Southwest Airlines to Implement New Seat Policy for Plus-Size Passengers.

Southwest Airlines will require plus-size passengers to pay for an extra seat in advance starting January 27, 2026. This policy change aims to improve comfort and safety for all passengers. The airline is also introducing new policies for stroller storage, wheelchair accessibility, and pet travel.

Southwest Airlines has announced a series of policy changes effective January 27, 2026, aimed at improving in-flight comfort and safety for all passengers. The most notable change is the requirement for plus-size passengers to purchase an extra seat in advance. This policy, which was first reported by CBS News, aims to reduce in-flight disruptions and align with the airline's new assigned seating policy [1].

Under the new rule, passengers who "encroach upon the neighboring seat" will be required to book an additional seat at the time of booking. This policy reflects an industry-wide trend towards optimizing cabin space and managing operational costs. If a passenger fails to secure an additional seat before departure, they will be required to purchase one at the airport. In the event of a fully-booked flight, the passenger may be rebooked onto an alternative flight [1].

The airline has also introduced new policies for stroller storage, wheelchair accessibility, and pet travel. These changes are part of Southwest's broader strategy to boost revenue and reduce in-flight disruptions. The new policies are expected to contribute to the airline's financial health by creating a new income stream and improving overall passenger experience [2].

While the exact number of passengers affected by the new plus-size seating policy is not yet disclosed, critics argue that the policy may disproportionately impact larger passengers and raise concerns about accessibility in air travel. However, supporters highlight the importance of balancing passenger comfort with the rights of others [3].

Southwest's latest policy changes follow a series of controversial measures implemented to bolster revenue and ward off activist investor pressure. These include the scrapping of the popular "first come first serve" seating policy and the end of the "bags fly free" policy [4].

The new policies underscore the evolving landscape of air travel, where airlines are increasingly focused on optimizing space, managing costs, and improving the overall passenger experience. Southwest's new policy may influence other carriers to adopt similar measures in the future [5].

References:
[1] https://nypost.com/2025/08/26/lifestyle/southwest-airlines-ripped-over-controversial-new-plus-size-passenger-policy-worse-for-everybody/
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/southwest-airlines-requires-size-passengers-pre-book-extra-seat-flights-starting-2026-2508/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/SouthwestAirlines/comments/1mz7j4y/southwest_charging_plussize_passengers_for_2_seats/
[4] https://fortune.com/2025/08/25/southwest-airlines-plus-size-policy-passengers/
[5] https://www.aol.com/ive-flown-american-airlines-almost-101701809.html