Southwest Airlines' novel passenger policy for larger individuals has incited widespread disapproval.

Southwest Airlines has announced a change in its policy that may have significant implications for plus-size passengers. The new policy, effective from January 27, 2026, requires customers who need an additional seat due to their size to proactively purchase an extra ticket and explain their case to a Customer Service agent at the departure gate.

The policy has generated negative reactions from various sectors, including advocacy groups and the general public. Critics argue that the new policy potentially limits the ability of plus-size people to fly and extinguishes hope for many who would not have been flying otherwise.

Tigress Osborn, the executive director of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, voiced her concern, stating, "The new policy of Southwest Airlines has extinguished hope for many plus-size people who would not have been flying otherwise."

Previously, Southwest Airlines allowed plus-size passengers to either pay the cost of an extra seat in advance and receive a refund later or show up at the airport and request an extra seat at no additional charge. However, under the new policy, plus-size passengers who "encroach upon the neighbouring seat" will have to buy an additional ticket.

If a case is deemed valid by Southwest Airlines, a complimentary additional seat will be given to the passenger if space is available on the flight. If a flight is full, the passenger will be rebooked on an alternate flight with available seats to their destination.

Southwest Airlines states that three conditions must be met for plus-size passengers to be eligible for a refund: the flight(s) must depart with at least one open seat, both seats should be purchased in the same fare class, and the refund request must be made within 90 days of the date of travel.

The new policy has sparked outrage and has been criticized for its potential impact on the travel plans of plus-size passengers. Southwest Airlines is headquartered in Texas. The new independent Chair of Southwest Airlines, Doug Brooks, takes over the position on August 1, 2025. However, there is no direct mention of him introducing this new rule for overweight passengers in the provided search results.

The armrest is considered the "definitive boundary" between plane seats according to Southwest Airlines. This new policy marks a significant departure from the airline's previous practice and has raised concerns among many. It remains to be seen how this policy will be received and implemented in the coming years.

Southwest Airlines' novel passenger policy for larger individuals has incited widespread disapproval.