01.11.2025 14:52
The American airline Southwest Airlines will charge overweight passengers double the fare. The company announced that passengers who do not fit in the armrest of the airplane seat will now have to purchase an additional seat before their flight. This policy will come into effect on January 27, 2026, when the airline transitions to a new seat assignment system.
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US-based airline Southwest Airlines will eliminate its free extra seat policy for overweight passengers starting January 27, 2026. With the new rule, passengers who do not fit in the armrest will be required to purchase a second seat in advance, and refunds will only be issued under certain conditions.
FREE SEAT POLICY REMOVED
According to the company's current policy, overweight passengers could purchase an extra seat in advance if they wished and request a refund after the flight. Alternatively, they had the right to request a free extra seat at the airport. However, with the new system, this right is coming to an end. Now, the cost of the extra seat will need to be paid in advance, and refunds will not be guaranteed.
In a statement from Southwest, it was said, "As part of the transition to the new seat assignment system, we are updating some of our policies. We recommend that customers who previously utilized the extra seat right purchase these seats during the reservation process."
According to the new regulation, if the flight is not full and two tickets are purchased in the same class, the passenger can request a refund for the second ticket within 90 days.
EXPERTS REACT: WILL DETERIORATE FLIGHT EXPERIENCE
Florida-based travel consultant Jason Vaughn argued that the regulation would negatively affect not only overweight passengers but all passengers, stating, "The current system was preserving everyone's comfort. This change will deteriorate the flight experience for both overweight passengers and others."
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