Southwest Airlines Community

Carol: In addition to what Jeramy said above, Southwest also gives instructions on how to do just that -- all you have to do is search. http://www.southwest.com/travel_center/cos_guidelines.html ... View more

As a "customer of size" myself, I've always appreciated Southwest's upfront approach to the subject. I know that space on airplanes is incredibly scarce, and while I'd love to see all airlines increase the amount of room every passenger gets, reality is reality and we all have to deal with what we've got. In the case of larger passengers, it means two seats. However, Southwest, by far, has the best policy of any airline regarding the subject. And unfortunately, they've been punished in the press as a result of their straightforward approach. But for me, if other airlines would be as honest and up-front about their policy (all airlines require larger passengers to buy two seats; only Southwest makes their policy public) flying would be a much easier process for me. I haven't even mentioned the fact that only Southwest will refund the cost of the second seat if the flight is not overbooked. In my experience, that's been the case every single time I've flown Southwest. No other airline will extend the same consideration. Long story short -- Southwest is the friend of large travelers, not the enemy. It's unfortunate that they get beaten up for being the only honest ones in the bunch. ... View more