Southwest Airlines, which received backlash from the plus-size community earlier this year when it tightened its extra-seat policy, has loosened restrictions on securing a second adjacent seat.

The amended rule, which goes into effect immediately, allows passengers who require additional space for safety reasons, such as larger customers or people with a disability, to receive a free neighboring seat at the boarding gate. The previous rule required passengers to purchase the additional seat and request a refund within 90 days of travel.