Controversy as airline forces plus-size passengers to buy extra seats

Southwest Airlines has introduced a new policy requiring plus-sized passengers to prepay for an extra seat if they cannot fit under the armrest of a seat.

This is part of a series of recent policy changes by America's leading low-cost carrier. The new rules on seating for large passengers, which take effect on January 27, the same day Southwest begins allocating seats, are causing controversy.

Currently, plus-size passengers can prepay for an extra seat with the option of a refund later, or they can request an additional seat for free. However, under the airline’s new policy, refunds are still possible but no longer guaranteed.

Oversized passengers must purchase an additional seat.

PHOTO: NYP

In a statement Monday, Southwest said it is updating some of its policies in preparation for seat assignments next year.

"To ensure seating, we are notifying customers who have used our extra seat policy that they should purchase an extra seat when booking," the statement said.

It's the latest change at Southwest, which has long been known for letting passengers choose their seats after boarding and allowing their bags to fly free, a policy that ended in May. Those perks are key to differentiating the low-cost carrier from its competitors.

Southwest said it will still refund the second ticket under the new extra seat policy if there is at least one seat available on the flight at departure and if both tickets were purchased in the same booking class. Passengers will also need to request a refund within 90 days of the flight date.

The airline's new policy has caused a stir on social media. Many passengers support it, but many also oppose it. One passenger said: "I'm very sick, I can only sit on half a seat, so should I get half the ticket price?" Others said: This is a money-making tactic for the airline, but it is also a way to destroy a brand, destroy customer loyalty, and put Southwest Airlines in financial trouble.

“If I have to pay extra for all this, I might as well fly a more premium airline,” one person shared.

The airline has struggled recently and is under pressure from activist investors to boost profits and revenue. Last year, it also planned to charge passengers more for more legroom and offer night flights.

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