Southwest Airlines, known for its open-seating policy, is making a historic change. Southwest will introduce assigned seating, new fare bundles, and upgraded experiences. The airline announced the changes officially, signaling a major shift designed to enhance customer choice and comfort.
Travelers loyal to Southwest’s “choose-your-own-seat” model will soon have more structured options while still enjoying signature perks like two free checked bags and no change fees.
Assigned Seating Comes to Southwest Airlines
Since its founding, Southwest Airlines has operated under an open-seating model. Passengers boarded in groups and chose any open seat. However, starting with ticket sales in late 2025 for flights in early 2026, passengers will select seats based on their fare type or have one assigned at check-in.
Southwest’s cabin redesign will feature three types of seats:
- Extra Legroom Seats: Located at the front and near exit rows, these seats offer up to five more inches of space. Benefits include priority overhead bin space, enhanced snacks, and complimentary premium drinks.
- Preferred Seats: Standard legroom seats located at the front of the plane for faster exiting.
- Standard Seats: Regular seats located toward the back of the cabin.
These seating options give Southwest travelers more control over their flying experience.
New Southwest Fare Bundles Launching
To complement assigned seating, Southwest Airlines is launching four new fare bundles:
1. Choice Extra
- Access to any available seat, including Extra Legroom.
- Early boarding.
- Two free checked bags.
- Earn 14 Rapid Rewards® points per dollar.
2. Choice Preferred
- Select Preferred or Standard seats.
- Early boarding.
- Earn 10 Rapid Rewards® points per dollar.
3. Choice
- Select Standard seats at booking.
- General boarding.
- Earn 6 Rapid Rewards® points per dollar.
4. Choice Basic
- Assigned a Standard seat at check-in.
- Last to board.
- Earn 2 Rapid Rewards® points per dollar.
- Flight credits expire after six months.
All fare types still include free in-flight entertainment, low fees, and Southwest’s famous bags-fly-free benefit.
Loyalty Rewards Upgrades for A-List and A-List Preferred
A-List and A-List Preferred Members will see enhanced benefits beginning May 28, 2025:
- Seat Selection: A-List Members can select a Preferred or Standard seat at booking. A-List Preferred Members can select Extra Legroom seats at no extra cost within 48 hours of departure.
- Baggage Benefits: A-List Preferred Members will continue to receive two free checked bags. A-List Members receive one free checked bag, plus up to eight additional passengers traveling with them.
- Inflight Upgrades: A-List Preferred travelers enjoy free inflight internet and up to two free premium drinks per flight.
- Priority Services: Both tiers continue to get priority check-in, security access, and same-day standby privileges.
These updates strengthen Southwest’s Rapid Rewards® program, ensuring loyal customers enjoy premium services.
Companion Pass Enhancements
Southwest’s popular Companion Pass® program is also evolving:
- Companions will be able to select seats at booking alongside the primary traveler.
- Tier seating benefits will extend to both the traveler and their companion.
- Rapid Rewards® Credit Card holders will automatically earn 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points every year.
These updates make it even easier to fly with a loved one under Southwest’s generous loyalty structure.
More Upgrades Coming to Southwest
In addition to assigned seating and fare bundles, Southwest Airlines is rolling out more improvements:
- Overnight Flights: “Redeye” flights will begin in February 2025 on select routes.
- Cabin Retrofits: Upgraded planes will include larger overhead bins and in-seat power outlets.
- Entertainment: Inflight entertainment options will be refreshed and expanded.
Southwest is also maintaining customer-favorite policies like no blackout dates, uncapped rewards, and Rapid Rewards points that never expire.
Why Southwest Airlines Is Changing Now
These changes come as part of Southwest’s effort to stay competitive and meet modern traveler expectations. By offering assigned seating, premium seat upgrades, and flexible fare bundles, Southwest aims to balance its casual, friendly brand with the comfort and convenience that today’s flyers demand.
Travelers will still enjoy the customer-friendly policies that built Southwest’s loyal following, now with even more options to personalize every trip.
