The change will come amid other changes at the Dallas-based airline, including doing away with its long-standing open seating policy, starting next year.
DALLAS — Dallas-based Southwest Airlines is changing its seating policy meant to accommodate plus-sized passengers. It’s the latest in a slew of changes for the airline.
Southwest long had a policy recommending “customers of size” buy two seats when booking their ticket, then apply for a refund for the second seat after the flight, as USA Today reports.
Now, effective, Jan. 27, 2026, the same day the airline moves from its open seating policy to assigned seating, Southwest will require the purchase of a second seat for those who can’t safely be accommodated in one, and is restricting the conditions under which it will refund passengers.
Under the new policy, passengers can still apply for a refund if a second seat is needed, but will have to meet additional conditions starting Jan. 27, 2026.
The airline’s new policy requires that the flight depart with at least one open seat, that both seats be purchased in the same fare class (Choice, Choice Preferred, Choice Extra, or Basic), and that the refund request be made within 90 days of travel to receive a refund, according to Southwest’s website.
On the same date, Southwest will also require customers who can’t be accommodated in one seat, which is defined as between two armrests, to buy a second seat, the airlines’ website states.
“To avoid the need for purchasing a seat at the last minute or rebooking, we encourage you to purchase your second seat when you make your initial reservation,” a statement on Southwest’s website reads.
Southwest told the Washington Post that it’s “updating many policies to prepare for the January changes.”
In addition to changing its open seating policy, Southwest ended its longtime “two bags fly free” policy in May.
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