Southwest Extra Seat Policy Update: 5 Things You Need to Know Now About the New Comfort Rules
- Passengers who need extra space can now purchase a second seat in advance at the same fare as their first, with that second seat fully refundable if not needed at the gate.
- The policy no longer requires a doctor's note or formal disability documentation for booking the extra seat, reducing barriers for travelers with larger body sizes.
- After boarding, customers can request a supplemental seat belt extender from flight attendants, with no extra charge for the device itself.
- The airline has clarified that the extra seat qualifies for Rapid Rewards points, meaning frequent flyers earn on both seats purchased for the same trip.
- If an aircraft is under-seated and an extra seat is available for free at the gate, Southwest will now actively offer it to passengers who pre-purchased a second seat to avoid potential bumping.