Southwest Airlines will soon require plus-size passengers to purchase an additional seat in advance, according to ABC News. The move ends its long-standing practice of allowing travelers to request one for free at the airport. Plus-size passengers currently have the option to pay for an extra seat in advance with a potential refund or request a free one at the airport. Under the new policy, refunds remain possible but are no longer guaranteed. The shift is part of a string of recent changes, including the end of free checked bags in May, as Southwest faces investor pressure to boost profits and revenue.
