Southwest Reverses Overweight Passenger Policy

Southwest Airlines has revised its policy for passengers requiring additional seating due to size. The airline will now provide a free second seat when two adjoining seats are available, reversing a January policy that required passengers to book and pay for an extra seat in advance. The National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA) had criticized the earlier policy as "more restrictive." Southwest stated the change aims to create a "more consistent and seamless experience" for affected customers. If adjacent seats are unavailable, passengers will be rebooked on a later flight. The airline continues to encourage advance booking of extra seats to avoid inconvenience. Eligible passengers can request refunds for unused second seats within 90 days of travel, provided the flight departed with open seats and both seats were booked in the same fare class. Travel expert Katy Nastro praised the reversal, noting it aligns with Southwest's historical pro-traveler policies. Southwest's shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "LUV."