URGENT UPDATE: Southwest Airlines has just announced a controversial policy change that will require plus-size passengers to pay for an extra seat starting January 27, 2024. Previously, the airline was known for accommodating larger travelers without extra charges, but this new directive is set to impose significant financial burdens on many.
The airline will now mandate that passengers who “encroach upon the neighboring seat” purchase an additional ticket, which will not be refundable. Under the old policy, passengers could secure an extra seat without charge upon arrival or receive a refund for an advance purchase. This change marks a dramatic shift for a company that was once a lifeline for plus-size customers.
Plus-size travelers can expect to add an estimated $300 to $400 to their travel budgets, a hefty increase that could deter many from flying altogether. Kaycee Bivens, a travel agent specializing in plus-size clients, expressed her disappointment, stating, “If you’re already budgeting and now you’ve got to add this cost, that may mean less travelers.”
The National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA) has condemned the decision, calling it “devastating” for plus-size passengers. Executive Director Tigress Osborn emphasized that Southwest was previously the only airline offering hope for many who faced stigma while traveling. “Now that beacon has gone out,” Osborn lamented, highlighting the distress this policy creates for larger individuals.
In a statement to the New York Times, Southwest Airlines confirmed it will notify previous users of the extra seat policy about the new rules. The airline is urging customers to reserve both seats at the time of their initial booking. While some refunds may be issued, they will only occur if there is at least one open seat available upon departure, complicating matters further.
This policy change comes amid other recent modifications by Southwest, including the controversial elimination of its open seating arrangement, which has drawn ire from loyal customers. The evolving landscape of airline policies raises pressing concerns about inclusivity and the treatment of plus-size travelers.
As this news develops, many are left wondering how it will affect the travel landscape for larger individuals. The changes may set a troubling precedent for other airlines and industries, as advocacy groups call for more inclusive practices.
Passengers and advocates alike are reacting swiftly to this announcement, with many expressing outrage and disappointment. The implications of this policy are broad-reaching, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by plus-size individuals in the travel industry.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
