Southwest Airlines Ends Open Seating, Implements New Plus-Size Passenger Policy
Southwest Airlines officially ended its decades-old open-seating policy and implemented a new policy regarding plus-size passengers on . The changes, initially announced in July 2025, mark a significant shift for the airline, known for its unique boarding process and previously accommodating approach to passengers needing extra space.
Under the new rules, passengers who cannot comfortably fit between armrests are now required to purchase two tickets in advance. Previously, Southwest allowed passengers to proactively purchase an additional seat with the option of a refund, or request a free extra seat at the airport. The new policy stipulates that a refund for the second seat will only be issued if the flight is not fully booked and both tickets are booked in the same fare class, and must be requested within 90 days of travel. If the flight is full, the passenger will be rebooked on a new flight.
The decision to end open seating was partly driven by a desire to boost revenue and respond to customer preferences for more control over their travel experience. According to Southwest executive Tony Roach, “Our Customers want more choice and greater control over their travel experience. Assigned seating unlocks new opportunities for our Customers — including the ability to select Extra Legroom seats — and removes the uncertainty of not knowing where they will sit in the cabin.”
Southwest is also rolling out new seat options – Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom – and a revised boarding system using Groups 1 through 8, replacing the previous A/B/C group system. The new RECARO R2 Extra Legroom seats offer up to five additional inches of legroom and feature a sky blue sunray design.
The policy change regarding plus-size passengers has drawn criticism, with some arguing it amounts to “fat shaming.” However, the airline maintains the change is necessary to ensure a comfortable experience for all passengers.
As of , the new policies are fully in effect. Southwest is communicating to customers who previously used the extra seat policy that they should now purchase a second seat at the time of booking to ensure space.
