Southwest’s New Plus-Size Policy Grounds Some Passengers, Sparking Outrage
A new policy introduced by Southwest Airlines is prompting strong reactions from plus-sized passengers across the United States. Effective Tuesday, the airline now requires individuals who cannot fully fit into one seat to purchase an additional one, regardless of seat availability next to them.
Details of Southwest’s New Plus-Size Policy
This rule, termed the “extra seat policy,” mandates that plus-sized individuals must buy a second seat if they “encroach” on adjacent seating. Previously, passengers had the option to purchase an extra seat but were not required to do so. Many received refunds for the second seat even when flights were full, a practice that set Southwest apart from other major airlines.
- Effective Date: Tuesday
- Policy Requirement: Purchase a second seat if encroaching on adjacent seating
- Refund Policy: Passengers may request a refund for the extra seat only if the flight is not full
- Previous Policy: Allowed for optional extra seat purchase with refunds regardless of flight capacity
Impact on Plus-Sized Passengers
Autumn Wright, a regular Southwest flyer from Albany, has already switched her allegiance to Alaska Airlines due to the change. She claims the new policy has stripped Southwest of its appeal. Wright stated, “There’s nothing special about you anymore.”
The shift comes amid a broader trend among airlines striving to reduce costs and boost profits, often at the expense of passenger comfort. More than two-thirds of American adults are classified as overweight or obese, yet standard legroom continues to shrink.
Reactions from the Community
Members from plus-sized communities express their disappointment. Wright emphasized, “This new policy makes flying harder for bigger-bodied people.” Others in her network echoed similar sentiments, mourning the loss of what they regarded as a more accessible flying experience.
Julianne Wotasik, an outspoken advocate from Oregon, noted that this change feels like a betrayal. She recalls how Southwest once earned the loyalty of the plus-sized community. “We thought Southwest was cool with us, and now they’re very much not,” Wotasik remarked.
Assigned Seating Policy
In addition to the customer of size policy, Southwest is transitioning to assigned seating. This shift marks the end of its long-standing open seating arrangement, making it easier for families and friends to sit together. However, this change has also caused concerns for those who, due to size or disabilities, appreciated the flexibility of open seating.
- New Seating Policy: Assigned seating replaces open seating
- Reasoning: Enhances seat selection for families and friends
Challenges for Disabled Travelers
Wotasik, who has a disability, expressed that the changes make flying increasingly difficult for her. “I can’t make it down the narrow aisle of an airplane,” she explained, expressing concern over losing access to family and friends due to these new policies.
Freya Gereke, another plus-sized traveler from Portland, lamented the new financial burden of potentially having to pay for an extra seat. Gereke stated, “It’s kind of insulting” that she has to pay double simply because seat sizes have shrunk over the years.
Conclusion
As Southwest Airlines introduces these contentious policies, many plus-sized passengers feel marginalized. The combination of the “extra seat policy” and the shift to assigned seating signals a challenging future for larger travelers seeking an equitable flying experience.
