In 2025, air travel feels more cramped and costly than ever. From “standing seats” being tested by some carriers to baggage fees that keep climbing, passengers are feeling squeezed both physically and financially. Now, Southwest Airlines—long considered one of America’s more budget-friendly options—is under fire for its new plus-size seating rules, which passengers say are unfair and discriminatory.

The Policy That Sparked Outrage

As reported by the Associated Press, Southwest’s updated policy will require passengers who cannot fit comfortably between armrests to purchase two seats at the time of booking. While the airline insists refunds are still possible, it also admits those refunds are no longer guaranteed.

This marks a sharp departure from the previous system, where plus-size travelers could either request an additional seat at the airport free of charge or pay upfront and get reimbursed later. For many, that system made Southwest stand out as an inclusive airline.

Now, under the new rules launching on January 27, passengers risk paying nearly double if they don’t book that extra seat in advance. If they wait until check-in or boarding, they could face a costly “walk-up fare,” which is almost always more expensive.

The airline defended its decision, stating: “To ensure space, we are communicating to Customers who have previously used the extra seat policy that they should purchase it at booking.”

The Human Impact

For advocates, the change feels like a slap in the face. Tigress Osborn, executive director of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, told The Washington Post: “They can’t afford to take that gamble. We are hearing from a lot of people about how this will literally mean they cannot travel by air anymore.”

Adding to the frustration, passengers often don’t know if a flight is fully booked until the last minute—sometimes not until they’re already at the gate. That uncertainty makes it risky for those who can’t afford to pay double in advance.

Fashion writer Corrine Fay admitted she was devastated when she heard about the change. “I definitely felt like crying because it’ll make my life a lot harder. We’re talking about the difference between spending $400 versus $800 or even more,” she said, noting that Southwest had been her go-to airline precisely because of its “plus-size-friendly” policy.

A Shift Away From Customer-Friendly Roots

Southwest has built its brand around perks that other budget airlines ditched long ago—such as free checked bags and open seating. But in May 2025, the airline ended free baggage, and now, with assigned seating and stricter plus-size rules, many say it’s losing the very features that made it popular.

Southwest claims that only 0.25% of passengers use the extra-seat policy, but critics argue that percentage still represents thousands of people who will now be forced to reconsider whether they can even afford to travel.

And the issue isn’t just financial—it’s about dignity and accessibility. For many travelers, being told they must pay for two seats feels like being singled out in a deeply personal and humiliating way.

The Bigger Picture

The controversy highlights a growing tension in the airline industry: balancing profit with passenger rights. As airlines push to maximize revenue with tighter seating, more fees, and stricter rules, passengers feel the skies are no longer friendly.

One travel blogger summed it up bluntly: “Southwest was the last airline I trusted to treat me like a human being. If this policy sticks, I don’t know if I’ll fly again.”

With outrage spreading across social media and advocacy groups calling for boycotts, it remains to be seen whether Southwest will back down—or if this marks yet another era where passengers must pay more for less comfort.