Southwest Airlines is changing another long-standing seating policy.

Beginning Jan. 27 of next year, the airline will require passengers who “encroach upon the neighboring seat” to proactively purchase an additional ticket, which might not be refunded.

Previously, passengers could either pay the cost of an extra seat ahead of time (and later receive a refund) or show up at the airport and request an extra seat at no charge, which made Southwest a carrier of choice for many plus-size passengers.

Southwest has announced sweeping changes in recent months that have flustered and even angered previously loyal customers, including ending open seating and charging checked baggage fees. The carrier also announced changes to its domestic routes and is considering expanding its international serv

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