Southwest Airlines Warns Of "Fat Tax" In New York State

Some travelers will have to pay more to travel if they are overweight.

Southwest Airlines announced a new seating plan that could end up costing people who are plus-size more money.

"Fat Tax" For Travelers In New York State

Southwest Airlines recently announced a new assigned seating program that will start in January 2026.

As part of that program is a new policy where plus-size people who occupy more than one seat will have to pay for all the seats they are taking up.

Currently, the airline offers plus-size passengers the option where they can either pay for an extra seat in advance and get that money back later, or they can request a free extra seat at the airport. Under the new policy, a refund is still possible but no longer guaranteed.

A refund would only be given if the flight is not full and other passengers can be seated elsewhere.

Southwest Airlines offers flights out of New York City, Long Island, and Rochester, New York.

Is this "Fat Tax" Fair?

Some people on social media claim that if a person takes up more than one seat, they should have to pay for two seats, just like if two people were sitting in those seats.

Other people argue that one person equals one seat purchase, and that the airline should make seats larger or not charge if a plus-size person needs an extra seat.

What do you think? Should airlines require plus-size people to pay for two seats if they take up more than one seat?

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