Southwest Airlines Implements New Seating Policy for Plus-Size Flyers, Raises Costs

Southwest Airlines is changing its seating policy, requiring plus-size passengers to buy an additional ticket if they encroach on neighboring seats. The change will take effect from January 27 next year, and refunds will only be given if the flight departs with at least one empty seat and both seats are booked under the same fare class. Advocates for plus-size passengers have expressed disappointment, saying the new rule will add significant costs and may deter travelers.

Southwest Airlines is set to implement significant changes to its seating policy and refund procedures for plus-size passengers, effective January 27, 2026. The policy changes, which coincide with the airline's transition to assigned seating, will require passengers who cannot safely fit in a single seat to purchase an additional ticket. Refunds for these extra seats will be subject to stricter conditions.

Under the new policy, passengers will need to meet three criteria to qualify for a refund:
1. The flight must depart with at least one open seat or with passengers traveling on space-available passes.
2. Both seats must be purchased in the same fare class, such as Choice, Choice Preferred, Choice Extra, or Basic.
3. The refund request must be made within 90 days of the date of travel.

Previously, Southwest encouraged plus-size passengers to purchase two seats but allowed refunds for the second seat without stringent conditions. The new policy aims to create a clearer process for refunds but has drawn criticism from advocates who argue it adds complexity and potential costs for plus-size travelers.

Jeff Jenkins, founder of Chubby Diaries, expressed concern that the new policy may discourage plus-size people from flying Southwest, stating that it adds "more anxiety to an already high-anxiety experience" [1].

The changes come amid other policy shifts at Southwest, including the end of its "two bags fly free" policy in May. Southwest has stated that the policy updates are part of broader efforts to streamline operations and improve the customer experience [2].

References:
[1] https://www.wfaa.com/article/travel/southwest-airlines-changing-refund-policy-plus-sized-passengers/287-f8aa14d9-8717-450a-af78-6830afa95a5a
[2] https://www.timesnownews.com/world/us/us-news/southwest-airlines-announces-major-seat-policy-change-for-plus-size-flyers-article-152513176