Southwest, Our Fatty Friendly Airline
The holidays are upon us and although we have all been advised not to travel, some of us either have to or will do so anyway for one reason or another. I’m not here to judge. I am here to say that as a member of the thick thigh committee, I swear by Southwest airlines for many reasons.
Photo Credit: Travel and Leisure
Southwest’s “Customer of Size” accommodation
For most airlines, if you can’t fit comfortably into one seat you have to purchase two tickets and hope you’ll get a refund for the second ticket once you trip is complete. On Southwest they make this process a lot less costly and much simpler. What’s also great is that you can do this on either or both legs of your flight. One would simply ask the ticket agent at check -n or the gate (preferably check-in to be considerate of others and timing) for the accommodation. At that point you will be reticketed and handed a slip to place in the seat next to you. This ticket lets the flight attendant and other passengers know that seat is not to be occupied. They take it one step further, you also get to pre board. I can speak for myself and say I’ve experienced some level of anxiety going down the aisles with all my crap not wanting to bump into or hit someone. A few of my friends that I often travel with greatly enjoy this perk as well being that takes some of the stress out. You are allowed to board before A, B and C zones. this allots you plenty of time to comfortably navigate you way to your seat and properly stow your luggage.
2. Southwest’s luggage policy
Southwest has one of the most generous luggage policies for domestic travel on the market today. Traveling often to host events, I always hit my luggage allowance right on the nose. With Southwest you are entitled to two check on items not exceeding 50lbs. You are also entitled one carry-on and one personal item. All of this at no extra charge! For other airlines, just the two check on items would run you about $70 each way. That’s an extra $140 per person added to the list of expenses.
3. No Change Fees
Southwest never charges you to change your flight, some airlines charge a whopping $250. You are responsible to pay the difference in cost for you newly selected flight.
4. Customer Service
Southwest has impeccable customer service. I consider them the Chick-Fil-A of airlines. I’ve traveled with them injured, with elderly, with a group and of course by myself. No matter the scenario, I was provided with excellent care and customer service.
5. Snack and Beverage
What I consider “light snacks” and beverages are provided at no additional charge. You can purchase fuller snacks/sandwiches and alcohol if you decide to. I also like the fact that if you ask for an extra of something, they will provide you with it without the funny looks.
What About Covid?
It is important to note that we are currently in a pandemic and some of what was mentioned above has been altered to protect Southwest’s customers and employees. The luggage policy is currently still the same however, their snack and beverage service has changed. Traveling with them in October of 2020 I was provided with two bags of what I would consider their version of Chex Mix and offered water. Some other precautions they are taking are requiring face coverings for all passengers and they also do a full exchange of cabin air with fresh, outdoor air and HEPA filtered air every 2-3 minutes. Temperature checks are done before boarding. They further only allow 10 people to board at a time in an effort to ensure people can social distance.
Photo Credit: Yahoo Finance
With all that said, I still encourage people to stay home if they can. If that is out of the question and you must fly, I highly recommend Southwest for a safe and comfortable experience. Have some travel tips and experiences you would like to share? Feel free to drop us a line.
