Southwest’s New Plus-Size Policy: How It Stacks Up Against Other U.S. Airlines

Southwest Airlines is making a big change to how it handles seating for plus-size travelers, and it’s sparking a lot of discussion among passengers.

For years, Southwest stood out for offering a “Customer of Size” policy that let larger passengers request a second seat without paying extra, as long as they needed the space. Starting January 27, 2026, that option goes away. Instead, anyone who needs more room will now have to purchase two seats when booking. The airline says refunds may be available if the flight isn’t sold out, but the guarantee of a free second seat is gone.

This move has led many to wonder how other airlines handle the same situation:

• United Airlines – Requires buying a second seat, usually at the same price as the first.
• Spirit & Frontier – If you can’t fit with both armrests down, you must purchase an extra seat.
• Delta – Doesn’t require buying an extra seat in advance but may reassign passengers or move them to another flight if space becomes an issue. Seat belt extenders are available on request.
• American Airlines – Suggests purchasing a second seat during booking. Gate agents can sometimes arrange adjacent seating, though it isn’t guaranteed.
• Alaska Airlines – Advises larger travelers to buy an extra seat. Refunds may be available if a flight has empty seats. Economy armrests are 17 inches wide; first class offers 21 inches.
• Allegiant Air – Requires passengers who spill into another seat to buy an additional ticket. If the flight is full and no extra seat is available, they may deny boarding for safety reasons.

Advocates for plus-size passengers are disappointed. Tigress Osborn of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance told The New York Times that Southwest had been “the only beacon of hope” for travelers who otherwise struggled to fly comfortably.

Southwest says the change is part of broader updates to prepare for its upcoming assigned seating rollout. Still, the loss of one of the most flexible plus-size policies in the U.S. marks a shift many passengers will feel.