Southwest Airlines recently announced changes to their refund policy for plus-size passengers who purchase an extra seat. This has caused frustration among advocates who stress the importance of comfortable and safe air travel for all passengers. Plus-size travelers are now advised to plan their trip carefully and research seat dimensions, potentially budgeting for an extra seat.

The airline’s new policy will take effect on January 27th and will only allow refunds for an extra seat if there is at least one empty seat on the flight, both seats were purchased in the same fare class, and the request is made within 90 days of departure. Previously, Southwest had fewer restrictions on their refund policy.

Some may argue that this new policy is still too restrictive, but being plus-size is not a moral failing and should not be punished. While airlines are continuously cramming passengers into smaller seats, policies like Southwest’s can benefit not only the plus-size passengers but also their fellow travelers by ensuring a safe and comfortable flight.

Executive director of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, Tigress Osborn, believes that everyone should have the space they need while flying. She stated, “I don’t actually need a full second seat. I need one more inch. More often than not, the person on the other side of you is getting the benefit of that space as well.

Flying can be a stressful experience for plus-size passengers, and policies like Southwest’s can make it a little easier, despite making it more difficult to obtain refunds. Jeff Jenkins, founder of Chubby Diaries, expressed that there is a deep anxiety that plus-size people experience when flying, and this can greatly impact their travel experience.

However, even with the new restrictions, Southwest remains the industry leader in accommodating plus-size travelers. Jenkins added, “As much as I am disheartened by what Southwest has done, they are still leading every other airline. They are still doing the refunds.

Osborn hopes that Southwest will reconsider their decision and that other airlines will become more accommodating to plus-size travelers. She stated, “I would want other airlines to hear that everybody can improve their policies and procedures around this.

In the meantime, it is essential for plus-size travelers to be aware of each airline’s policies. American Airlines recommends purchasing an extra seat when booking, while Delta Air Lines suggests that passengers purchase an extra seat or upgrade to a premium cabin if needed. Southwest’s upcoming policy allows for refunds if certain conditions are met, and United Airlines recommends purchasing the extra seat in advance to avoid any issues on the day of travel.

Jenkins advises plus-size travelers to plan ahead and research seat dimensions using websites like SeatGuru or aeroLOPA. He also recommends budgeting for an extra seat to ensure a comfortable flight. Osborn added that airlines do not always honor the extra seat booking and may take it away if needed, which can result in a difficult situation for the traveler.

In the end, Osborn hopes that airlines will revisit their policies and become more