Southwest Airlines is implementing a significant change for plus-size travelers, requiring those who cannot fit within a single seat’s armrests to purchase an extra seat in advance, according to the Associated Press .

The change starts on Jan. 27, the same day the airline begins its new assigned seating system.

Under the current policy, plus-size passengers have two options: pay for an extra seat in advance with potential reimbursement later, or request a complimentary extra seat at the airport, AP reported.

Southwest said in a Monday statement that it is updating policies as it prepares for next year’s assigned seating implementation.

“To ensure space, we are communicating to Customers who have previously used the extra seat policy that they should purchase it at booking,” the air

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