Southwest Airlines’ ‘Extra Seat’ Rule Now Lets You Buy Two Seats for Your Body Type—And Here’s What It Costs You

Southwest Airlines’ ‘Extra Seat’ Rule Now Lets You Buy Two Seats for Your Body Type—And Here’s What It Costs You

Southwest Airlines just quietly changed its extra seat policy, and if you’re a larger passenger, this could save your wallet from a nightmare. Starting today, the airline now lets customers buy two seats for themselves—one for their body and one for extra space—without needing a medical note. But here’s the wallet punch: you’ll pay full price for both seats upfront, then you can request a refund for the second seat after the flight if it doesn’t sell. For the average traveler, this means if you or a family member needs that extra room, you’re out hundreds of dollars until the plane lands. Critics argue this cash-flow trap hurts people who need it most, while others say it’s better than being squeezed into a sardine-like middle seat. Either way, if you fly Southwest, keep a credit card with a high limit handy—this “update” might make your next trip pricier before it gets cheaper.