This is the first airline where overweight passengers have to buy an extra ticket

Currently, passengers can choose to pay for the second seat in advance and then claim a refund later, or request the free extra seat at the airport. The new regulation simplifies this process: the reservation system automatically purchases a second ticket, which the airline will later refund if the flight is not completely full, provided that both tickets were booked in the same class.

Southwest, which has long been known for offering free seat selection upon boarding and free baggage check-in, is making several changes under pressure from investors. In May, it announced that seats with more legroom would cost extra, in exchange for which it would launch new night flights.

The new rule is a clear sign that the company is trying to increase its revenues by transforming its convenience services.