Southwest Airlines Changes Rules for Passengers with Excess Baggage

• The rule change applies to passengers with excess baggage
• An additional seat will need to be paid for in advance
• Refunds for the additional seat are currently not guaranteed

Southwest Airlines has announced new rules for passengers who cannot fit in the confines of their assigned seat. Along with the new requirements, which will take effect on January 27, passengers will be required to pay in advance for the additional seat.

Under the new policy, passengers who have excess baggage may either purchase an additional seat in advance with the possibility of refunds or request a complimentary additional seat at the airport. However, under the new rules, refunds for excess baggage are no longer guaranteed.

The company’s statement indicates that the changes are in connection with preparations for the introduction of designated seats in the upcoming year. Southwest Airlines stated that to ensure space, passengers who previously used the additional seat policy will now have to buy it at the time of booking.

This latest change in the company’s policy follows previous announcements that allowed passengers to choose their seats after boarding the plane, as well as providing the option for complimentary baggage transport, which was canceled in the spring. These advantages previously distinguished Southwest from other airlines.

The new policy also stipulates that the company will refund the value of the second ticket if at the moment of issuance there is an available seat, and if both tickets were booked in the same category of reservation. Refunds for excess baggage will need to be requested within 90 days after the flight.

The airline has recently been facing challenges and is under pressure from investors who demand increased revenue and profits. Previously, the company announced plans to introduce a fee for more space for them and promote overnight flights.

Tags: USA/Aviation