Southwest’s new extra seat policy: Here’s what travellers need to know
Refunds only apply if seats remain open after departure
DUBAI – Southwest Airlines will soon overhaul one of its most talked-about policies.
From 27th January 2026, passengers who do not fit comfortably between the armrests of a single seat will need to pay for an additional seat in advance.
The US airline confirmed that the new rule will be implemented on the same day it introduces seat assignments, marking a major shift away from its long-standing open boarding system.
What is changing?
Previously, plus-size travellers could either purchase a second seat and request a refund after travel, or ask for an additional seat free of charge at the airport. Under the new guidelines, that flexibility ends. While refunds are still possible, they are now conditional and not guaranteed.
Southwest has stated that passengers who require more than one seat should proactively purchase it when booking. The airline clarified: “The armrest is considered to be the definitive boundary between seats.”
Those who do not buy a second seat in advance will need to purchase one at the airport. If the flight is full and no adjacent seat is available, they will be rebooked on another flight.
How will refunds work?
A refund on an additional seat will only be issued if the flight departs with at least one unsold seat. Both tickets must be purchased in the same fare class, and passengers have 90 days after travel to request their refund.
With assigned seating coming into effect, customers will also be able to select two adjacent seats when booking. If this option is unavailable, Southwest advises contacting customer service immediately.
When do the changes apply?
The policy takes effect from 27 January 2026, the date assigned seating officially replaces the current open seating model. The update follows a series of customer-facing changes, including the removal of the airline’s popular “two bags fly free” perk earlier this year.
Travel experts say the new rules could affect not just plus-size travellers but also seat availability for all passengers. As a result, anyone planning a Southwest flight after January should carefully review seat dimensions and booking requirements before confirming their travel.