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Southwest Airlines to introduce assigned seating
Starting January 27, 2026, Southwest Airlines will switch to assigned seats for all flights.
Southwest Airlines will move to assigned seating starting in January 2026, making significant changes to its boarding process.
Southwest Airlines shifts to assigned seating in 2026
Southwest Airlines has announced a significant change to its seating policy. Starting January 27, 2026, the airline will implement assigned seating on all flights, ending its long-standing open seating tradition. The option to select assigned seats will be available from July 29, 2025, for passengers booking flights for the 2026 schedule. Along with the new seating arrangement, Southwest will introduce extra legroom seats as a premium option. The airline believes these changes will improve customer experience, offering certainty in seating arrangements while aligning with industry trends.
Key Takeaways
"Assigned seating unlocks new opportunities for our customers."
Tony Roach emphasizes the benefits of assigned seating for passengers.
"We see that a majority of customers prefer a seat assignment."
This statement underscores the shift in customer preferences at Southwest Airlines.
This shift marks a pivotal moment for Southwest Airlines, reflecting broader changes in air travel preferences. For decades, the airline’s open seating policy distinguished it from competitors. However, as travelers increasingly prefer assigned seats for comfort and assurance, this evolution signals Southwest's desire to remain competitive in a changing landscape. By introducing extra legroom options and redefining fare categories, the airline aims to boost revenue, aligning with passengers' growing expectations for comfort and service.
Highlights
- Southwest is making a bold move into the future of air travel.
- Assigned seating reflects changing preferences in the airline industry.
- This shift could redefine customer experience at Southwest.
- Extra legroom seats promise added comfort for passengers.
Concerns over customer reaction to changes
The airline's move away from open seating could lead to backlash among loyal customers who prefer the previous system. Many travelers value the flexibility offered by open seating, and changing this may not sit well with all passengers.
The transition marks a new era for the airline, emphasizing customer loyalty while balancing its operational model.
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