Southwest walks back controversial seating policy that singles out plus-size passengers
Southwest Airlines is reportedly reversing part of its controversial seating policy for plus-size passengers following significant backlash. A TikTok user shared that a gate agent informed her that customers can now obtain an additional seat at no cost upon arrival at the airport. This change contrasts with the previous policy requiring advance purchase of extra seats, which had drawn criticism from travelers.
- ▪Southwest Airlines is changing its policy for plus-size passengers after backlash.
- ▪Customers can now request an additional seat at no extra cost upon arrival at the airport.
- ▪The previous policy required customers to purchase extra seats in advance or risk being rebooked.
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Travel Southwest walks back controversial seating policy that singles out plus-size passengers By Marissa Matozzo Published May 27, 2026, 4:08 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google Southwest flyers may finally be getting some breathing room. One TikTokker is going viral as she believes the airline is quietly walking back part of its controversial “customer of size” policy after furious backlash from travelers who slammed the carrier for making them shell out extra cash just to fly comfortably. Emily, who posts under the handle @Emily_infullbloom, shared the apparent update this week after speaking with a Southwest gate agent at the airport.
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