Passengers Told They Had to Buy a Second Seat on Flight Due to Weight Say Policy 'Felt Like a Slap in the Face'

Southwest Airlines is facing intense backlash from some passengers after updating its Customer of Size policy that impacts travelers who might not fit comfortably in a single seat.

As of late last month, the airline says that certain passengers needed to buy an extra seat at the time of booking if they are deemed to encroach on a neighboring passenger's seat, instead of waiting to request one at the airport.

This is a shift from how the policy was said to work before. Critics then argued about how the latest approach lacks a clear, objective standard and leaves bigger flyers unsure when they would be asked to purchase a second seat. This could feel so embarrassing or unfair to many.

The unpredictability has led some people to describe the policy as shocking and humilitating with complaints shared mostly through social media on the subject.

Passengers impacted by this change are not against the thought of buying extra space, but want more transparent guidelines and enhanced communication so they can plan ahead of time.