Southwest Airlines is making a HUGE change! Say goodbye to the airline’s signature “open seating” policy; assigned seats are coming soon.
In 2024, Southwest Airlines surprised everyone when it announced the end of open seating. Currently, passengers must select a seat when they board a Southwest flight; there is no way to pre-book a seat. This controversial policy has divided fans for years, and now we have some more details about when Southwest’s changes will go into effect.
On September 26th, 2024, Southwest Airlines hosted an Investor Day briefing in Dallas, TX. During the event, Southwest shared some important details about the company’s business plans, including an update on the assigned seating policy.
Southwest said it will “evolve” its boarding process with new seating assignments but will continue to focus on operational efficiency. The company noted, “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.”
That said, Southwest confirmed that open seating will stick around for a few more months, and the new system will begin to roll out in 2026. Passengers can book a reserved seat starting in late 2025, and those seats will begin to become available for flights in early 2026.
So, what prompted this change? Well, Southwest conducted some research of its own and found that 80% of Southwest Airlines customers and 86% of customers who use other airlines prefer assigned seating.
Additionally, Southwest will soon offer “premium seating” with up to five inches of additional legroom. Currently, all Southwest plans have the same class of seats throughout their cabins, so this change would provide a new option for people willing to upgrade.
The good news is that even when Southwest updates its bearing policy and adds a new class of seating options, the airline confirmed that it will continue to allow passengers to check up to two free bags. If you’re familiar with Southwest Airlines, you may know that this is a HUGE perk for travelers.
For now, it seems like open seating will stick around for 2025, but we expect those changes to go into effect by next year. If you book a flight for early 2026, you just might be able to pick your seat. Look out for changes on the Southwest Airlines website! For now, flights can only be booked through October 1st, 2025. On February 6th, Southwest will open its schedule through November 1st, 2025.
In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest travel news, so stay tuned for more.
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Do you ever fly with Southwest Airlines? Tell us in the comments!
I am a long term flyer with Southwest and I have their credit card. No complaints and I love to fly with Southwest.
Past 10 years have only flown Southwest. I like the open seating & 2 bags fly free. I guess I will have to get used to the new arrangement!
I like it the way it is. Herb must be turning in his grave.
Disappointed. I love the way it is now.
I doubt very highly 80% wanted this. Based on what I’ve read in travel blogs that talk about this, everyone is pretty angry. The entire reason I fly Southwest is their seating policy. There is a very particular seat i enjoy. I fly 6-8x a year, probably will start to look for another airline since SW will no longer be distinguishing itself from others.
SW Card holder with an earned companion pass for years. I don’t remotely believe SW clients chose this change. Now SW will be the same as everyone else, without a real 1st or Business Class. Probably time to give Delta a shot? Or those new flights from the private side?
I’m disappointed by the upcoming change. I’ve flown Southwest for several years when I’ve gone to the west coast. I have a Southwest card. Guess I won’t be needing that anymore.
I have been a loyal South West customer for years with a SW credit card. I was completely satisfied with their seating policy,luggage allowances,and generous policies on changing flights/times. Recently, their prices have become so ridiculous, that I am going to have to find alternatives. $600 round trip btw south Florida and Long Island!!Very 😔.
I have been a loyal South West customer for years with a SW credit card. I was completely satisfied with their seating policy,luggage allowances,and generous policies on changing flights/times. Recently, their prices have become so ridiculous, that I am going to have to find alternatives. Very 😔.
Not soon enough. Do it now. So they can be normal.
What about those who are disabled and need a seat in the front of the plane and also ask for pre board. How will this be handled.
I am a disabled person . What happens when I fly. I have always flown Southwest and hope to continue.
What about disabled preboard
I love flying southwest because of the open seating. I like to pick an isle seat because of my long legs or sit in the exit seats. Sorry to hear it’s changing.
My sentiments exactly Debbie
Yes always
Always fly Southwest! Have for many many years, plan on continuing to fly Southwest.
I am going back to sleep 😴