Southwest Airlines Introduces New Policy for Plus-Size Travelers

What’s Changing?

Effective January 27, 2026, Southwest will significantly revise how it accommodates passengers who need additional space on flights:

• Extra seat required at booking: Travelers who cannot fit within a single seat’s armrests — traditionally defined as “Customers of Size” — must now purchase an extra adjacent seat when booking their flight. (gulfnews.com)
• No free airport seating: The longstanding option to request an extra seat for free at the gate if space was available is being eliminated. (gulfnews.com)
• Refunds now conditional: Previously, passengers who bought an extra seat could often receive a refund. Under the new rules, refunds are only possible if the flight departs with at least one empty seat, both tickets are in the same fare class, and a refund request is filed within 90 days of travel. (gulfnews.com)
• Part of broader operational overhaul: This change comes alongside Southwest’s end of open seating — the airline’s iconic first‑come, first‑choose system — as it shifts to assigned seating for all passengers. (yahoo.com)

In short, the airline is aligning its policies more with the rest of the industry, where plus‑size travelers have traditionally been expected to book and pay for additional seats if needed. (forbes.com)

Why the Shift Matters

Southwest has long stood out among U.S. carriers for its relatively accommodating policies toward larger passengers, offering refunds or complimentary extra seating when space allowed. (https://www.whsv.com) That reputation has made it a preferred choice for many travelers who found flying more comfortable and accessible compared with competitors.

The new rule marks a departure from that model and could have real cost implications for plus‑size passengers: forcing up‑front purchases of two tickets and tighter refund conditions may make trips significantly more expensive or stressful — especially on popular or full flights. (TravelMole)

Traveler Reactions and Controversy

The policy update has generated a range of responses:

• Critics argue it undermines inclusivity by placing more financial burden on plus‑size flyers and removing the flexibility they previously enjoyed. (nypost.com)
• Supporters contend that clearer expectations about seat purchases help avoid uncomfortable situations for other passengers and create a fairer seating experience. (Travel Tomorrow)
• Some advocates also point out the perceived contradiction between this change and Southwest’s historic brand of customer‑friendly service. (yahoo.com)

How This Fits Into Southwest’s Broader Strategy

This latest update is not happening in isolation. Southwest is also:

• Ending its free checked‑baggage policy in favor of fees on most passengers. (yahoo.com)
• Introducing multiple fare tiers with varying levels of seat choice and benefits. (the-sun.com)

Together, these moves reflect a broader shift toward standardized industry practices and additional revenue streams — a significant cultural shift for an airline long known for its value‑oriented and passenger‑first approach. (yahoo.com)