Southwest Rejects Its Inclusive Policy, Expecting Plus-Size Passengers to Pay Double

Southwest Airlines is making significant changes to its policies. The airline will stop providing complimentary seats for plus-size travelers who require additional space on January 27, 2026. Instead, while booking their journey, those who are unable to fit comfortably on one seat will need to purchase a second seat.

This policy change represents a significant departure from the airline’s prior strategy, which permitted customers to either request a free additional seat at the gate if space was available or reserve an additional seat in advance and obtain a refund. Refunds for those extra seats are now subject to additional limitations. Only if both seats were reserved in the same class, the flight isn’t sold out, and the request is submitted within ninety days will a refund be granted.

The updated policy is a component of Southwest’s larger change. In addition, the airline is making a significant departure from its customary boarding process by abandoning its open seating strategy in favor of assigned seats. Additionally, Southwest has abandoned its long-standing “Bags Fly Free” policy and is now charging for checked baggage. The first checked bag now costs $35, while the second costs $45 for passengers.

According to industry experts, the change brings Southwest closer to other big airlines. However, a lot of people in the travel industry are raising concerns about the impact on accessibility. Jeff Jenkins of the plus-size travel website Chubby Diaries voiced worry that these modifications would alienate devoted clients who have grown accustomed to Southwest’s adaptability.

According to Southwest, the purpose of the new policy is to make the airline’s revamped boarding procedure more clear and consistent.