Southwest Airlines Tightens Rule for Passengers Requiring Two Seats Starting January 2026

Southwest Airlines is tightening its policy for travelers who need two adjacent seats. Starting January 27, 2026, passengers who take up space in a neighboring seat must buy an extra ticket upfront, and in many cases, that second seat won’t be refunded.

Previously, plus-sized passengers could reserve a second seat in advance and receive a refund later. They could also request an extra seat at the gate at no cost, depending on availability.

Under the new rule, refunds for the extra seat will only be offered if the flight has at least one open seat, and both seats were purchased in the same fare class. For some cases, the refund must be requested within 90 days.

This policy shift arrives alongside several major changes at Southwest. The airline has also abandoned its open-seating system, now shifting to assigned seating, and introduced checked baggage fees, ending its long-standing “two free bags” benefit.

Experts and some travelers have expressed concern over the changes. Jeff Jenkins, creator of the plus-size travel blog Chubby Diaries, told USA Today:

“I just hope that consumers are aware of this change and I wonder if plus-size people will skip out on flying with them at all because of them not knowing if the flight is sold out or not. It’s just more anxiety to an already high anxiety experience.”

For years, Southwest’s "Customer of Size" policy stood out in the airline industry. Travelers who couldn't fit within one seat were able to secure a second seat without upfront cost, with flexibility on refunds. That policy made the airline a go-to choice for many plus-sized fliers.

But as the carrier focuses on revenue and tighter operations, critics worry this change will raise costs, add uncertainty, and discourage travel for plus-sized customers.