Southwest Airlines requires the purchase of an additional seat for plus-size passengers starting January 27

Southwest Airlines will introduce a new rule on January 27, requiring passengers who do not fit between the armrests of the seat to purchase an additional seat before the flight. This measure will make flights more expensive and complicated for travelers, as refunds for the extra seat will no longer be guaranteed. Currently, plus-size passengers can request a free additional seat at the airport or pay for one, with the option to get their money back.

With the new policy, if a passenger does not purchase the additional seat in advance and the aircraft is full, they will be rebooked on a later flight. Critics, including travel agents, warn that this change will negatively affect the flying experience for all passengers, not just those who are plus-size. Southwest will also decide on a case-by-case basis whether a passenger needs an additional seat for safety reasons. This change is part of a series of modifications aimed at increasing the company's profitability.