A plus-sized traveler recently shared a clever hack on how individuals categorized as 'customers of size' can secure additional seats without extra charges while flying with a U.S. airline.
Kimmy Garris, a travel enthusiast and advocate for plus-size fashion from Nashville, self-identifying as a 'fat solo traveler' on her TikTok profile, posted a video revealing how to utilize Southwest Airlines's unique 'customer of size policy.'
She highlights that Southwest Airlines is 'the only airline that allows you a second seat at no extra cost, even if the flight is fully booked.'
In her video, Kimmy can be seen at an airport gate, inquiring about the policy from an airline agent who subsequently issues an additional ticket for the seat adjacent to her, giving her more space.
In an accompanying caption, this globetrotter asserts that such a policy 'ought to be the standard across the industry.'
She said: 'Flying in public transportation should be more comfortable and accessible for all people including fat and disabled people.'
'You HAVE to use it at the departing gate when you start your journey. If you don't use it going out you can't use it flying back.
'Go to the departing gate agent and kindly ask them to use the customer of size policy.
She added: I've done this a dozen times and never had an issue or been denied. They will print you a new ticket plus a second ticket to put down on your free seat. You will also be allowed to pre-board!
'Enter the aircraft, get your seatbelt extender, and grab your seat! I place the ticket in the seat next to me. I always take the window seat. If anyone tries to sit it in I kindly let them know I have two seats booked.
'To be honest I almost never get approached because no one wants to sit in the middle seat next to a fat person on a plane.'
Below the video, thousands of users commented on her video, thanking her for highlighting the policy.
One person said: I fly southwest and take advantage of this often! I also pre-board so i can sanitize my seat quickly with no stares. It's so comforting!
A second wrote: I choose to purchase two seats in advance and get refunded after the trip so that no one gets booted. That’s an option too.
A third commented: This is excellent to know I haven't flown for over 7 years because I was so scared I would be forced to buy another seat.
Someone else said: I cried when I learned about this policy. The relief I felt over having the option alleviated so much of my travel anxiety.
Another added: Love this policy- I will say, just go to southwest baggage check/cust. service check in- it gives them an earlier warning than waiting for the gate.
The Southwest website maintains that its 'customer of size' policy remains in effect, a policy that has been in operation for over three decades. The policy stipulates that passengers are entitled to a complimentary second seat if they are unable to 'lower both armrests and/or encroach upon any portion' of an adjacent seat.
To avoid a situation like Kimmy's, where she requested a second seat at the gate, the airline recommends booking an additional seat in advance and then requesting a refund.
