Southwest Airlines has updated its controversial policy for plus-size travelers.
In a change that took effect last week, the Dallas-based low-cost carrier is no longer requiring passengers of size to purchase an extra seat in advance of their flight.
Instead, airport agents can offer an additional seat at no extra cost when the space is available. However, passengers who do not book an extra seat in advance still risk having to wait behind for a later flight if additional space isn't available.
"On flights where adjacent seats are available, our agents at the airport are empowered to provide an additional seat at no extra cost to Customers who require one. If another seat is not available, we will work to accommodate the Customer on a later flight," Southwest said in a statement.
"We continue to encourage Customers who need an additional seat to book it in advance to help alleviate any last-minute inconvenience at the airport," the airline added.
The previous policy required passengers to purchase the extra seat in advance and then request a refund if a seat opened up. The policy also came under fire for putting unfair pressure on gate agents who were forced to make a judgment call as to whether passengers required an extra seat in some cases.
The plus-size policy change comes at a time of dramatic transformation for Southwest, which introduced assigned seating earlier this year.
Southwest said it will continue working "to create a more consistent and seamless travel experience for customers who require an additional seat."
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