Southwest Airlines will soon require passengers who need extra space due to their size to pay for an additional seat in advance, starting January 27. The airline is updating its policies as it prepares for assigned seating next year.
Under the new policy, plus-size travelers can either purchase an extra seat in advance with a refund option or request one at the airport, where it’s still available. However, purchasing an extra seat in advance will no longer be guaranteed, and passengers must book their ticket within 90 days of receiving confirmation to receive a refund.
If a passenger needs an extra seat but doesn’t purchase one ahead of time, they’ll be required to buy one at the airport. If the flight is full, they’ll be rebooked onto a new flight. The airline aims to ensure space for all passengers and will refund a second ticket if there’s an open seat on the flight and both tickets were booked in the same class.
The change marks the latest shift by Southwest, which has been working to boost profits and revenue amid financial pressure from activist investors. Other recent changes include charging customers extra for more legroom and offering red-eye flights.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/southwest-plus-size-seating-rule-change-addbdb8264ce4d4b6598772540c5719f