Southwest Airlines mandates plus-size passengers buy extra seats, limiting refunds starting Jan 27.

Southwest Airlines will require plus-size passengers to purchase an extra seat starting January 27, 2025, with refunds only possible if the flight departs with at least one open seat and both seats are in the same fare class. Previously, passengers could buy an extra seat and receive a refund later or get one free at the airport. This change is part of several recent adjustments by Southwest, including ending its open seating policy and introducing checked baggage fees.