Southwest CHANGES Seating Policy… Again!

Southwest Airlines just updated its seating policy, which will make flying so much easier.

©Southwest Airlines

Now, passengers who require an extra seat when flying no longer need to purchase it in advance. Airport gate agents can offer an additional seat at no extra cost when space is available. The change was implemented last week.

“On flights where adjacent seats are available, our agents at the airport are empowered to provide an additional seat at no extra cost to Customers who require one,” Southwest Airlines said in a statement. “If another seat is not available, we will work to accommodate the Customer on a later flight.”

Southwest Airlines gate at Harry Reid International Airport

Earlier this year, Southwest introduced a policy requiring passengers who required additional space to purchase a second seat before traveling. Customers could later request a refund if extra seats were available on the flight. This change reverses the policy. Now, the customer requests an extra seat before boarding; no refund required!

©Southwest Airlines

When the earlier extra-seat policy took effect in January, Southwest faced criticism from travelers who said they were told by ticket counter staff or gate agents that they would not fit in a single seat. The updated policy is expected to reduce the need for airport employees to determine whether a passenger may require additional seating at the gate.

Southwest Airlines baggage check and ticket counter at John Wayne International Airport

Under the new policy, passengers who do not book an extra seat in advance still risk not being able to board their original flight if no additional seats are available. Southwest still encourages customers who may need an extra seat to book one in advance to help avoid last-minute issues at the airport.

©Southwest Airlines

“We continue to encourage Customers who need an additional seat to book it in advance to help alleviate any last-minute inconvenience at the airport,” the statement added. In addition, Southwest will continue refining the process “to create a more consistent and seamless travel experience for customers who require an additional seat.”

We’ll be sure to update you on any other changes coming to Southwest Airlines. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more travel news!

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