Southwest Airlines has rolled back part of its controversial policy requiring passengers who need extra space to buy a second ticket. The change comes after criticism that the original rule was restrictive and unfair.
Southwest Allows Free Second Seat When Available
Under the revised rules, Southwest gate agents will now arrange a free second seat for passengers who need extra room, as long as two adjacent seats are available. If seats aren’t available, the airline will rebook the passenger on a later flight.
The rollback follows a policy introduced in January that required passengers to book and pay for an extra seat in advance. That rule drew criticism from advocacy groups like the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA), which called it “more restrictive.”
Refunds for Passengers Who Prepaid
Passengers who purchased a second seat in advance can request a refund if one was open on the flight. The request must be submitted within 90 days, and both seats must have been booked in the same fare class. Southwest continues to encourage travelers needing extra space to book in advance to avoid inconveniences.
Travel Experts Praise Policy Change
Katy Nastro, a travel expert at flight deals website Going, welcomed the adjustment. She said the move restores some of the “LUV” Southwest is known for, after recent years saw the airline cut pro-passenger benefits like free bags and open seating.
NAAFA also praised the update. Executive Director Tigress Osborn credited travelers and activists for pushing Southwest to respond, noting the airline now allows personnel to assign an extra seat at the gate when available.
Who Needs a Second Seat?
Southwest defines passengers “who encroach upon the neighboring seat(s)” as needing to purchase additional seats. The dividing line between seats is marked by the armrest, and the airline can require a second seat for safety purposes.
The original January policy frustrated some passengers who had previously been able to reserve two seats for the price of one. Social media users celebrated the rollback, saying it makes travel easier and less stressful for plus-size passengers.
Industry Comparison
Other airlines, including Delta, United, and American, still require passengers who need extra space to purchase an additional seat before boarding. Delta specifically requires extra seats for anyone who can’t fit in a single seat without encroaching on a neighbor or keeping armrests down.
Concerns Remain
While the policy change is welcome, NAAFA warns it does not fully guarantee dignity for plus-size travelers. If a passenger cannot pay for a second seat in advance, they risk being bumped and reassigned to a later flight, which can be disruptive and stressful.
