Southwest Airlines is reportedly being hailed as a progressive trailblazer in the realm of U.S airlines after word spread about a company policy where obese passengers can request up to two additional seats to accommodate their size, with the additional seats being complimentary to said obese passengers.
In what some might consider to be a big deal – pun intended – Southwest Airlines ushered in a new policy aptly dubbed the “customer of size extra seat policy,” which upon first glance reads as though the airline simply urges obese passengers to purchase additional seats as needed to accommodate their girth.
“Customers who encroach upon any part of the neighboring seat(s) may proactively purchase the needed number of seats prior to travel to ensure the additional seat(s) is available.” – Southwest Airlines ‘Customer of size’ policy
If the policy was merely as stated in the above excerpt, then there would hardly be anything controversial revolving around the matter, insofar that if someone requires a larger surface area than most passengers on the plane, then they should pay for the additional seat(s).
But further along the “customer of size extra seat policy,” Southwest Airlines reveals that the purchasing of any additional seats by obese passengers is merely a formality, as obese passengers can expect a full refund on the additional seats booked. Furthermore, per the same policy, obese passengers don’t necessarily need to purchase extra seats in advance and can ostensibly demand extra seats upon boarding.
“You may contact us for a refund of the cost of additional seating after travel. If you prefer not to purchase an additional seat in advance, you have the option of purchasing just one seat and then discussing your seating needs with the Customer Service Agent at the departure gate. If it’s determined that a second (or third) seat is needed, you’ll be accommodated with a complimentary additional seat.” – Southwest Airlines ‘Customer of size’ policy
As odd as it may sound, obese individuals are making metaphorical strides into becoming the next protected class, at least in more progressive bastions within the country. This past May, New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed into law an anti-discrimination act regarding obese individuals, particularly in realms of employment, housing, and public accommodations.
Fox News host Stuart Varney mentioned this past November that New York City’s recent law treating obesity as a protected class will create a new class of ambulance-chaser attorneys, looking to capitalize on a well-intentioned piece of legislation that puts employers in a tough spot.
“Whole armies of professional litigants made a business of filing non-compliance lawsuits. The same thing will happen with obesity compliance suits. As I said, it’s difficult being obese and fitting into society. It’s also difficult, as an employer, to get the help you want, who can get the job done. You’re hemmed in by restrictions on who you can hire and fire. A balance is required.”
Gregory Hoyt is a former contributor to outlets such as Law Enforcement Today and Red Voice Media, and current host of The Breakdown with Greg Hoyt. Based out of Sierra Vista, Arizona, Hoyt is a staunch and outspoken advocate of law enforcement and first responders, while also harboring the unique experience of having spent nearly 5 years in prison. Since then, he's used his unique perspective to offer support and commentary about the criminal justice system. When not working or combating bad ideas, Hoyt also leisurely studies economics, history, and law.