# Southwest Airlines Plus Size Passenger Policy For plus-size passenger assistance or to book an extra seat with refund, call **1-888-843-9199** for friendly and respectful support. When flying as a plus-size passenger, comfort, dignity, and fair treatment are top priorities. Among major U.S. airlines, **Southwest Airlines** is frequently highlighted for its **Customer of Size policy**, which allows plus-size passengers to travel without discrimination and provides clear guidelines for accommodating larger body types. In this detailed guide, we will explain everything about **Southwest’s plus-size passenger policy**, how it works, how to book, what to expect at the airport, and how it compares with other airlines. This guide aims to make flying with Southwest more transparent and stress-free for larger passengers and their companions. ## 1. What is Southwest’s Customer of Size Policy? Southwest Airlines has a formal program called the **"Customer of Size" policy**, which supports plus-size passengers in need of extra seating. The airline clearly states: > “If you cannot lower both armrests, which are considered the definitive boundary between seats, you may need a second seat for comfort and safety.” This policy allows passengers who need more room than one seat provides to request and occupy an additional seat—**free of charge** in many cases. It is widely considered one of the most inclusive and respectful policies among U.S. airlines. --- ## 2. Who Qualifies as a Plus Size Passenger? According to Southwest’s guidelines, you might qualify as a Customer of Size if: * You **cannot fit within the confines of a single seat** with both armrests down. * You **require seatbelt extenders** and still do not fit comfortably. * You experience discomfort or encroachment on the space of neighboring passengers. Southwest aircraft typically feature seats with a **width of 17 inches to 17.8 inches** depending on the aircraft. If your body extends beyond this width, a second seat may be appropriate. --- ## 3. Do Plus-Size Passengers Have to Buy Two Seats? **Yes, but there’s a refund process.** Southwest requests that Customers of Size **purchase a second seat during booking**, especially when flights are expected to be full. However, the airline offers a **full refund for the extra seat** after travel, making it essentially free for qualifying passengers. This approach helps the airline reserve enough space for everyone while maintaining a fair and respectful process. If you're flying standby or making a last-minute booking, you may also **request the second seat at the gate** without purchasing in advance. --- ## 4. How to Book Extra Seats on Southwest Airlines Booking an extra seat with Southwest is straightforward but a little different than regular bookings: ### ✅ Option 1: Book Online 1. Visit [southwest.com](https://www.southwest.com) 2. Search for your flight. 3. For each leg of the journey, **book two seats under the same name** (e.g., "John Smith" and "John Smith XS"). 4. In the **Passenger Details**, use the same name and details for both seats. 5. Add a note in special assistance, or contact customer service to flag it as a "Customer of Size" reservation. ### ✅ Option 2: Call Customer Service If booking online seems complicated, simply call **1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792)** and request assistance. The agent will guide you through booking your seat(s) properly and apply the Customer of Size policy. --- ## 5. Will I Be Reimbursed for the Second Seat? Yes. Southwest will **reimburse you 100%** for the second seat **after travel is completed**, as long as: * You qualify under the Customer of Size policy. * You actually traveled and used both seats. * You submit a refund request online or by calling customer service. This refund policy ensures that you don’t pay extra just because of your body size. --- ## 6. How to Request a Refund for the Extra Seat You can request your refund for the second seat in two ways: ### ✅ Online Refund Request: 1. Visit: [https://www.southwest.com/air/refund](https://www.southwest.com/air/refund) 2. Enter your reservation number and name. 3. Select the seat marked with “XS” (Extra Seat). 4. Choose “Customer of Size Refund” as the reason. 5. Submit the request. ### ✅ Phone Support: Call **1-800-I-FLY-SWA** and ask for a refund under the Customer of Size policy. The agent may ask for your confirmation number and a brief explanation. Refunds typically appear within **7–10 business days**. --- ## 7. Airport Process for Plus Size Passengers When you arrive at the airport, follow these steps for a smoother process: 1. **Check-In Early**: Southwest uses open seating, so early check-in helps you get a better spot. 2. **Visit Customer Service Desk or Gate Agent**: Inform them that you're a Customer of Size. They’ll issue a **Reserved Seating Document** for you. 3. **Pre-Boarding Option**: You’ll be allowed to **pre-board** to choose two adjacent seats, usually in the front or rear rows. 4. **Seatbelt Extender**: If needed, ask the flight attendant after boarding (they are not handed out during boarding). Gate agents are trained to handle this discreetly and respectfully. --- ## 8. Seating Guidelines and Armrest Rule Southwest uses a simple guideline to determine if a second seat is necessary: **can both armrests go down?** * If **yes**, and you’re comfortable—no second seat required. * If **no**, or your body overflows significantly—second seat is recommended. The armrest serves as the **boundary line** between your space and the adjacent seat. --- ## 9. Can I Choose Where to Sit? Southwest has a **no assigned seating** policy, but Customers of Size benefit from **early boarding** and can select: * Two seats side by side * A window or aisle with extra legroom * Near the front for easier boarding/deplaning Flight attendants and gate agents can help you find a suitable spot discreetly. --- ## 10. What if the Flight is Full? If the flight is fully booked and you didn’t purchase a second seat: * The airline will try to accommodate you with open seats elsewhere. * If **no seats are available**, you may be asked to take a **later flight** with availability. * There is **no penalty or fee** for this rescheduling. This is why pre-purchasing the second seat is recommended if your travel date is critical. --- ## 11. Plus Size Companion Travelers – What They Should Know If you're traveling with a plus-size family member or friend: * Try to **check in together** and request pre-boarding if one is a Customer of Size. * Choose two seats early during open boarding. * Communicate with the gate agent to ensure you sit together. Traveling with someone familiar helps make the experience more relaxed and emotionally supportive. --- ## 12. Comparing Southwest’s Policy with Other U.S. Airlines | Airline | Extra Seat Cost | Refund Offered | Seat Assignment | Pre-Boarding | | ----------------- | ----------------------------------- | -------------- | --------------- | ------------ | | **Southwest** | Yes (refunded) | ✅ Yes | Open seating | ✅ Yes | | United Airlines | Yes (non-refundable) | ❌ No | Assigned | ❌ No | | Delta Air Lines | Yes | ❌ No | Assigned | ❌ No | | American Airlines | Yes | ❌ No | Assigned | ❌ No | | Alaska Airlines | Yes (refunded if adjacent is empty) | ✅ Conditional | Assigned | ❌ No | **Southwest stands out** by being the **only major U.S. airline** that refunds the cost of the second seat and offers open seating plus pre-boarding. --- ## 13. Real Experiences from Plus-Size Flyers Many plus-size passengers have shared positive stories: > “I was nervous, but Southwest treated me with kindness. I got to pre-board and pick two seats with no embarrassment.” > — *Tracy B., size 26, flew Houston to Denver* > “The refund process was easy. They didn’t make me feel bad about needing space. Highly recommend for big people.” > — *Jason D., 6'3", 340 lbs* These testimonials show that Southwest’s policy is not just good on paper—it works in real life. --- ## 14. Tips for Comfortable Flying as a Plus-Size Traveler Here are practical tips if you’re flying Southwest as a plus-size passenger: * **Book Early**: More seat options and better flexibility. * **Buy the Extra Seat**: Get a refund later and peace of mind now. * **Arrive Early**: Check in and talk to the gate agent. * **Pre-Board**: Use your Reserved Seating Document and get comfortable. * **Wear Comfortable Clothes**: Stretchy fabrics make long flights easier. * **Use Seatbelt Extender**: Don’t hesitate to ask; they are free and discreet. * **Download Entertainment**: Southwest has no seatback screens, so bring your own device. --- ## 15. Frequently Asked Questions ### Q1: What if I don’t want to buy the extra seat in advance? You can still request it at the gate, but space might not be guaranteed on full flights. ### Q2: Are seatbelt extenders allowed? Yes. You can bring your own FAA-approved extender or ask for one from the flight crew. ### Q3: Will I be embarrassed or shamed? Southwest trains staff to be respectful. Pre-boarding helps minimize public attention. ### Q4: Can I sit in the exit row? No. Customers of Size are typically not allowed in exit rows due to FAA regulations. ### Q5: Can I use points to book the second seat? Yes. You can use Rapid Rewards points for both seats and request a refund on the second one after the trip. --- ## 16. Final Thoughts: Is Southwest Plus-Size Friendly? The answer is a **resounding yes**. Southwest Airlines is often praised for having the **most plus-size-friendly policy** among U.S. carriers. They recognize the realities of diverse body types and make efforts to accommodate all passengers with: * A clear Customer of Size policy * Open seating with pre-boarding * Full refunds for extra space * Respectful, discreet service If you're a plus-size traveler looking for comfort, clarity, and support while flying, **Southwest Airlines** should be your go-to option. --- **Need more tips on accessible flying or booking assistance?** Let us know—we can help you plan a comfortable journey step-by-step.