Southwest Airlines is shaking up its policies in a big way. Starting January 27, 2026, the airline will no longer offer complimentary seats for plus-size passengers who need extra room. Instead, travelers who cannot fit comfortably within one seat will need to purchase a second seat when booking their flight.
This policy change marks a dramatic shift from the airline’s previous approach, which allowed passengers to either reserve an extra seat in advance and request a refund or ask for a free additional seat at the gate if space allowed. Now, refunds for those extra seats come with new restrictions. A refund will only be available if the flight isn’t sold out, both seats were booked in the same class, and the request is made within 90 days.
The revised policy is part of Southwest’s broader transformation. Alongside this, the airline is scrapping its open seating model in favor of assigned seats, a major change from its usual boarding style. Southwest is also now charging for checked bags, ending its long-standing “Bags Fly Free” promise. Passengers now pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.
Industry experts say the shift puts Southwest more in line with other major carriers. Still, many in the travel community are sounding the alarm over the impact on accessibility. Jeff Jenkins of the plus-size travel site Chubby Diaries expressed concern that these changes could drive away loyal customers who have come to rely on Southwest’s flexibility.
Southwest maintains that the new policy is designed to provide clarity and consistency with the airline’s updated boarding system.
