Why I’m Dreading Flying on Southwest Airlines in 2026

I usually LOVE flying with Southwest Airlines…but recent changes could turn me off from the airline in 2026.

Southwest is in the process of rolling out some MAJOR procedural changes. Uprooting decades of tradition, the popular airline is getting more expensive and more generic with its flight experience. While I fly all the time and can adjust to these changes begrudgingly yet easily, it’s easy to see how they can cause mass confusion for less frequent flyers.

It’s been a weird period for Southwest and it’s not going to feel normal for the airline for quite some time. Throughout 2025, the airline introduced controversial policy change after controversial policy change, prompting people to ask themselves (me included) whether it even makes sense to fly with Southwest anymore.

The airline — which was famous for its open seating policy — is moving to assigned seating beginning January 27th, 2026. For a lot of folks who just want to get away somewhere quickly for an affordable price, open seating was a major boon. Now, an already convoluted boarding process becomes even more obnoxious with the introduction of assigned seats — something that will surely throw off people used to the old ways.

Southwest has added that its plane seats will eventually have more Extra Legroom seats installed, but that’s yet another additional cost.

Back in May 2025, the airline officially ended the five-decade-long “bags fly free” policy — which will likely cause even more frustration at the airport. Imagine being out of the loop, and then showing up and not considering these extra costs, only to be slammed with those fees.

Here’s what we can guarantee as a fallout from Southwest’s most popular perk disappearing: Grumpier travelers and more expensive travel costs. Usually, the two go hand-in-hand.

It gets even better (sarcasm)! The Rapid Rewards points system was adjusted to give members booking Business Select prices more points…but there’s a catch. Wanna Get Away or Wanna Get Away Plus options will earn fewer points. So you’re spending more and getting less with Southwest.

All of these changes will be in full effect in 2026, and they really haven’t been that well-received. They’ll be even less so by the people who have no idea what the heck is going on and are demanding answers during your next red-eye or cross-country trip. It’s gonna get ugly at Southwest for a while, ya’ll. It’s best to equip some extra patience or find a new favorite airline — even if it’s just a temporary change.

How are you feeling about flying with Southwest in 2026? Let us know in the comments and continue to follow us here at AllEars for more travel updates and tips!

Southwest Airlines Finally Broke What Made It Different — And I’m Out

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