NEWS: Timeline Announced for Changes to Southwest Airlines' Controversial Boarding Process

When you plan a trip, which airline do you prefer to fly with?

Just among our team here at AllEars, we have some differing opinions. Some love a budget airline while others are willing to pay the higher cost for better amenities. And if you’re a Southwest Airlines fan like some members of our team, then we’ve got some important news!

A little while ago, Southwest Airlines announced its plan to transition to assigned seating on flights, instead of its current open seating policy. Now, we’ve got more information on when that change will take place.

On September 26th, Southwest Airlines hosted an Investor Day briefing in Dallas, TX, which included details about some of the company’s business plans going forward. On that list was a note about assigned seating.

The airline notes that 80% of Southwest Airlines customers and 86% of customers who use other airlines prefer an assigned seating model. Because of this, the company expects to begin selling assigned seats in the second half of 2025, with its first flights operating with the new model in 2026.

In addition to assigned seating, Southwest has decided to soon offer “premium seating” with up to five inches of additional legroom in the future. This paid offering is expected to drive demand and generate more revenue per customer.

But what about the boarding process? Well, Southwest will “evolve” its boarding process with seating assignments but will continue to focus on operational efficiency. The airline notes, “The updated boarding process will maintain Southwest’s unique and popular approach in boarding through position numbers and signage displayed on stanchions within the gate area. The carrier’s most loyal Customers and those who purchase premium seating will continue to be among the first to board.”

We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with any more news as these policies are updated and flying with Southwest Airlines changes, so stay tuned to AllEars!