Southwest Airlines' Plus-Size Passenger Policy Receives Social Media Debate and Praise

Southwest Airlines is receiving mixed reactions on social media for its "passengers of size" seating policy, which allows customers who cannot comfortably fit in one seat to either be seated next to an empty seat or purchase two tickets and get a refund later. The policy, in place for 30 years but recently popularized by a TikTok influencer, is based on whether any part of a passenger's body extends past the armrest. While some praise the policy, others criticize it for pandering to overweight individuals or being unfair to tall people. Critics also express concerns about potential abuse of the policy.