News Summary

• Southwest Airlines will require plus-size passengers to buy extra seats before travel beginning January 27.
• The airline says customers who need more than one seat should purchase in advance to guarantee adjacent seating.
• This marks a significant departure from their previous approach to accommodating travelers who need additional space.
• The timing coincides with the airline’s broader operational changes that will reshape how passengers experience flying with Southwest.
• Some worry that Southwest is losing the distinctive customer service approach that once set it apart from other carriers.