Southwest Airlines Introduces Extra Seat And Assigned Seating Rules

Starting January 27, 2026, Southwest Airlines will implement significant changes to its seating policies, affecting all passengers. The airline will now require passengers who “encroach upon the neighboring seat” or do not fit within a standard seat’s armrests to purchase an extra seat at the time of booking. This is a major change from the current policy, where passengers could either request an extra seat for free at the airport or pay in advance with the option of a guaranteed refund.

These new rules are part of a larger effort by Southwest to improve profitability and standardize its services. Along with the extra-seat policy, the airline will also end its decades-old open boarding system and move to assigned seating across its fleet.

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Refund Rules for Extra Seats

Under the new policy, purchasing an extra seat is mandatory for passengers who require more space than the standard seat provides. However, refunds will be tied to strict conditions:

1. The flight must depart with at least one open seat.

2. Both tickets must be purchased in the same fare class.

3. The refund request must be submitted within 90 days of travel.

Previously, passengers had the flexibility to request an extra seat at the airport, often for free, and in some cases, secure a refund if they paid in advance. That flexibility will no longer exist, meaning passengers must now plan ahead and pay for the extra seat at the time of booking.

Assigned Seating Replaces Open Boarding

The introduction of the extra-seat rule coincides with one of the biggest changes in Southwest’s history. Starting January 27, 2026, the airline will end open seating—a system where passengers chose seats as they boarded—and switch to assigned seating.

Open boarding has been a hallmark of Southwest Airlines for decades, allowing passengers to select seats freely, often creating a unique boarding experience. However, this system also had limitations, especially for plus-size passengers or those requiring extra space. By moving to assigned seating, Southwest aims to improve boarding efficiency, reduce disputes over seats, and make travel smoother for all passengers.

Concerns from Plus-Size Travelers

Some travelers, particularly plus-size passengers, have expressed concerns about the new policy. Passengers who do not pre-purchase an extra seat will be required to buy one at the airport. If a flight is full, these passengers may even be rebooked on a later flight. This change could complicate travel planning for some passengers and affect comfort levels during flights.

To understand the impact, it is important to note that Boeing 737 seat widths on Southwest range from 15.5 to 17.8 inches, with armrests marking the space boundary. Passengers exceeding these dimensions must secure an additional seat in advance.

Checked Bags Will No Longer Be Free

In addition to the extra-seat rule, Southwest Airlines will also begin charging for checked luggage starting May 28, 2026. Previously, Southwest was known for offering free checked bags, a policy that set it apart from competitors.

Under the new system, only top-tier loyalty members, business-class travelers, and holders of the airline’s credit card will continue to enjoy free checked baggage. All other passengers will need to pay for their checked luggage, marking a significant shift in Southwest’s long-standing perks.

Rules for Plus-Size Passengers

Here is a summary of the new rules that will specifically affect plus-size travelers:

• Effective Date: January 27, 2026, when assigned seating is introduced.

• Mandatory Extra Seat: Required for passengers exceeding armrest boundaries.

• Refund Eligibility: Refund only possible if the flight has open seats, tickets purchased in the same fare class, and the request is submitted within 90 days.

• No Free Airport Requests: Extra seats must be purchased in advance; airport requests will no longer be free.

• Seat Dimensions: Standard Boeing 737 seats are 15.5 to 17.8 inches wide; the armrest defines personal space.

• Impact on Travel: Passengers who fail to purchase in advance may need to buy a seat at the airport or be rebooked if the flight is full.

• Partner Airlines: Plus-size passengers on partner flights must also buy extra seats directly from the partner airline. These seats are non-refundable.

Reason Behind the Change

Southwest Airlines has built its reputation on customer-friendly policies such as open seating and free checked bags. However, in recent months, the airline has been adjusting its strategies to improve profitability, reduce costs, and satisfy investors.

These changes include:

• Rolling back some longstanding perks.

• Cutting staff in certain areas.

• Adjusting domestic routes.

• Considering expanded international service.

The extra-seat rule and assigned seating are part of a broader effort to standardize operations, improve boarding efficiency, and ensure consistent experiences for all passengers.

How This Affects Travelers

The upcoming changes will affect all Southwest Airlines passengers, but they may have a greater impact on those who need extra space. Travelers must now plan and pay for additional seats in advance to ensure comfort and avoid complications.

Passengers should also be aware that checked baggage is no longer complimentary, and extra costs will apply unless they meet the exceptions for loyalty status or business-class travel.

Overall, these changes mark a significant shift for Southwest Airlines. The airline is moving away from policies that made it stand out in the past and moving toward more standardized, profit-oriented operations. Passengers who fly Southwest will need to adapt to the new rules, plan ahead, and budget for additional costs to ensure smooth and comfortable travel.

Starting January 27, 2026, Southwest Airlines will:

• Require plus-size passengers to buy an extra seat in advance.

• End its open boarding system and implement assigned seating.

• Limit refunds for extra seats under strict conditions.

• From May 28, 2026, charge for checked baggage, except for certain passengers.

These updates mark a major change in Southwest Airlines’ policies and will affect travelers’ planning, comfort, and costs.

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