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Southwest Airlines will update its policy for plus-size passengers who purchase two seats, effective January 27, 2026. The changes coincide with the airline’s shift from open seating to assigned seating and online seat selection.
Previously, Southwest allowed passengers who needed an extra seat to buy one in advance and request a refund afterward. This long-standing practice meant that travelers ultimately paid for only one seat. The policy was considered straightforward and less stressful for customers, but did not guarantee adjacent seats due to the airline’s open-seating system.
With the move to assigned seating, Southwest says customers of size will be able to select two adjacent seats in advance. “As such, this is actually a positive for customers of size at it guarantees an adjacent seat, thereby reducing confusion and delays,” according to the company. Customers purchasing fares that do not include seat selection can still reserve adjacent seats by calling Southwest directly.
