Southwest Airlines Ends Free Extra-Seat Policy for Plus-Size Flyers

Southwest Airlines has long stood apart with its generous “Customer of Size” policy, allowing passengers who couldn’t fit within a single seat to request a second seat—sometimes even for free at the gate. Starting January 27, 2026, that era ends.

From that date, passengers will be required to purchase an adjacent seat upfront during booking, rather than rely on day-of accommodations or automatic refunds.

What Passengers Need to Know About This Airline

Under the new rules, passengers who encroach on the armrest must book an extra seat in the same fare class to ensure space.

Refunds may still be possible—but only if the flight is not sold out at departure, the seats are in the same fare class, and the passenger requests a refund within 90 days. This is a marked departure from the previous policy, which offered more flexibility and certainty to travelers.

Airline’s Shift Toward Assigned Seating and Profitability

These changes mirror Southwest’s transition from open seating to an assigned seating structure, part of a broader revamp under pressure from investors.

Earlier in 2025, the airline removed its beloved “bags fly free” policy and introduced new fees—signaling a move away from perks that defined its customer-friendly identity. The new seating policy reinforces a tighter, more cost-driven strategy.

Community Backlash and Accessibility Concerns

The policy change has sparked disappointment and frustration among passengers who saw Southwest as a rare ally for body inclusivity in travel.

Advocates warn that the policy adds financial and logistical burdens, reinforcing the idea that accessibility is now a premium feature. Many are concerned that this shift may make future air travel less welcoming for plus-size passengers.

Where Southwest Airlines Now Stands in the Industry

Even with the updates, Southwest’s approach remains more accommodating than other major U.S. carriers, most of whom never offered refunds or day-of extra seat accommodations.

However, the new policy blurs that differentiation, reducing the airline’s reputation as the most body-inclusive major carrier and pushing some to explore more flexible alternatives.

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