Southwest Airlines Giving Free Extra Seats To Plus Sized Passengers
Southwest Airlines is being applauded by passengers of size on TikTok for its inclusive policy of offering complimentary seats to accommodate larger individuals. Customers whose bodies encroach past the armrest are entitled to an extra seat or two at no extra cost, according to the airline's policy.
Southwest Offers FREE Seats
In contrast to most airlines, Southwest is offering free seats to larger passengers who may need them. As explained in a statement released, larger passengers may purchase one seat and then discuss their seating requirements with the Customer Service Agent at the departure gate. Should a second or third seat be necessary, it would be provided for free.
The airline also encourages its passengers to consider buying extra seats in advance if they anticipate a need for more space. Southwest offers the flexibility to refund the cost of additional seating after the travel.
Southwest's policy reflects its aim to provide a safe and comfortable flight experience for all customers, taking into consideration their individual seating needs. Their procedure seeks to minimize unplanned accommodation which could disrupt other passengers' experience.
What Plus-Sized Travelers Think Of The New Policy
Plus-size travel expert and TikToker, Jae'lynn Chaney, applauded the decision to recognize those in the super fat category. According to Chaney, there is a spectrum of fatness, and being super fat entails different needs and accommodations.
Chaney, the owner of Jae Bae Productions, urged other airlines to create policies accommodating customers of size. These policies can help such passengers cope with the additional costs incurred due to their need for extra space, thereby making flying not just physically but also financially accessible.
More Travelers Take To Tiktok To Express Their Delight In The Policy
Various TikTokers have found the Southwest policy helpful and have posted videos documenting their successful securing of free additional seats.
A Plus Size Solo Traveler named Kimmy (@kimmystyled), gained almost 1 million views with her video illustrating how she acquired an extra seat at no charge through Southwest's customer of size policy.
She noted that Southwest, uniquely, offers an extra seat without charging, even if the flight is full. In addition, she mentioned being allowed to preboard and place the extra ticket in her extra seat to deter others from sitting there. Kimmy praised Southwest for ensuring that public transportation is accessible and comfortable for all.
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