Airlines have certain rules that are generally similar across competitors, although some measures may vary. These include the amount of baggage a person can carry, the number of bags allowed per fare, and the type of seat chosen. In this case, the American company Southwest Airlines will implement a new policy requiring passengers to purchase an additional seat if they exceed the limits of a standard seat, meaning if they occupy more space than the armrests. The airline states that refunds will only be issued if the flight is not full.
Southwest Airlines reports that the measure will take effect on January 17th
This measure has generated considerable discussion. According to Time Out, it has sparked debate in the United States because it reopens the discussion about body size, space, and operational decisions within the airline industry. Southwest Airlines reports that the measure will take effect on January 17th; it updates a system that previously allowed passengers to request an additional seat at the airport free of charge or a refund after their trip.
“Customers who encroach on the adjacent seat must proactively purchase the necessary number of seats before traveling”
Users feel that not all the details of this measure, which the company will begin implementing in just over a month, have been explained. For example, according to users, the company has not provided specifics on how it will verify this condition or whether it includes exceptions, which has generated concern among frequent flyers. Meanwhile, according to Southwest Airlines, “customers who encroach on the adjacent seat must proactively purchase the necessary number of seats before traveling.”
This regulatory change formalizes the process, eliminating any surprises passengers might encounter upon arrival
Many passengers believe the new rule could lead to higher costs, operational confusion, and potentially uncomfortable situations at airports if the space allocation criteria aren’t applied consistently. Previously, not pre-booking an extra seat allowed airlines to charge for it at the airport if necessary. This regulatory change formalizes the process, eliminating any surprises passengers might encounter upon arrival.
The same is true for Ryanair, which started out being very strict with baggage dimensions
The fact is, new changes are coming to the airline, including the addition of night flights and a surcharge for seats with extra legroom. Space and weight are very important for aircraft, technically speaking. It’s a reality that some airlines have tried to capitalize on. The same is true for Ryanair, which started out being very strict with baggage dimensions, but now, passengers can only bring a backpack or handbag, and if they want to bring a trolley, they have to pay extra. This extra cost often exceeds the price of the flight itself.
According to the airline, the policy update aims to streamline cabin occupancy and standardize seat assignments
Southwest Airlines’ changes come on top of those implemented in May 2015, when the company eliminated its long-standing policy of free checked baggage and complimentary seat assignments—two features that defined the airline’s identity for decades. According to the airline, the policy update aims to streamline cabin occupancy and standardize seat assignments.
From now on, any passenger exceeding the allocated space will have to purchase two tickets from the outset
For now, until the airline determines how it will be able to verify the space a person occupies on the plane, any passenger exceeding the allocated space will have to purchase two tickets from the outset. Currently, passengers do not need to rely on in-person assessments or other alternative options at the check-in counters. If you wish to travel with this airline and know or believe you may exceed the armrest limits, you must purchase two seats.