Southwest Airlines to Implement New Seat Policy for Plus-Size Travelers

Southwest Airlines has announced a significant change to its seating policy that will impact plus-size travelers. Starting on January 27, 2024, the airline will require passengers who cannot fit within the armrests of their seat to purchase an additional seat in advance. This update coincides with the introduction of assigned seating, which marks a departure from the airline’s traditional open seating policy.

Currently, plus-size passengers have the option to either pay for an extra seat in advance, with a possibility of a refund later, or to request a free extra seat at the airport. Under the new guidelines, while refunds may still be available, they will no longer be guaranteed. In a statement released on Monday, Southwest Airlines explained that the policy update aims to ensure adequate space for all travelers.

“To ensure space, we are communicating to customers who have previously used the extra seat policy that they should purchase it at booking,” the airline stated. This move is part of a broader strategy as Southwest prepares for changes in its boarding procedures next year.

Details of the New Policy

Under the revised policy, passengers who require an additional seat will be able to secure a refund if there is at least one open seat available when the flight departs. Both tickets must be bought in the same booking class, and passengers are required to request the refund within 90 days of their flight.

If travelers do not purchase an extra seat in advance, they will have to buy one at the airport. Should the flight be fully booked, these passengers will be rebooked onto a later flight. This change reflects Southwest’s efforts to manage seating effectively while responding to operational challenges.

This policy shift is part of a series of recent changes at Southwest Airlines, which has faced increasing pressure from activist investors to improve profitability and revenue. The airline is moving away from its long-standing reputation for open seating and free checked bags, the latter of which ended in May 2023.

With these adjustments, Southwest aims to remain competitive in the budget airline sector, even as it introduces additional fees for services such as extra legroom and red-eye flights. As the industry continues to evolve, the airline seeks to balance customer service with financial sustainability.

The new policy is likely to be closely monitored by both customers and industry analysts, as it reflects larger trends in airline operations and customer expectations.