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Say Goodbye to Open Seating: A New Era for Southwest Airlines
In a significant shift, Southwest Airlines has officially transitioned away from its storied open seating policy, a hallmark of the airline since its inception in 1971. This change, which took effect on January 27, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for both the airline and its loyal passengers.
Why Did Southwest Make This Change?
The move to assigned seating is not just a casual upgrade but a strategic response to changing customer demands. Many travelers have expressed a desire for more control over their flight experience, including the option to select seats that cater to individual preferences—especially those with extra legroom or closer to the front of the plane. Tony Roach, EVP of customer and brand at Southwest, explained, “Our customers want more choice and greater control over their travel experience.” This shift brings Southwest more in line with major airlines like American, Delta, and United.
What Can Passengers Expect from the New Policy?
Passengers will now be assigned seats at check-in, which can ease the stress of uncertainty before boarding. This new boarding process involves several groups determining boarding priority, creating a more organized environment at the gate. Families traveling with young children will be accommodated together whenever possible, although they may need to purchase a standard economy ticket instead of the more budget-friendly basic fare to ensure adjacent seating.
Moreover, Southwest is phasing out the familiar metal stanchions that previously guided passengers in line for their boarding groups, making the experience feel more streamlined and less chaotic.
A Double-Edged Sword: Customer Reactions
The reactions have been mixed. While some longtime fans of Southwest lament the end of the quirky open seating arrangement, many travelers view this as a positive development. A Dallas-based traveler, Bryan Lorenzo, noted, “I’ll always be nostalgic for Southwest's open seating, but I hope these new policies make the airline more competitive.” Many passengers are indeed relieved by the orderliness of assigned seating.
Additional Changes: More Than Just Seat Assignments
Alongside the assigned seating proposal, Southwest has made various operational adjustments, including checked baggage fees that were implemented in mid-2025 and the introduction of extra-legroom seats. The company hopes these changes will strengthen its financial position, as it adapts its business model in a challenging marketplace. Roach adds that these enhancements are designed to pair beautifully with Southwest's reputation for top-notch customer service.
Concerns About Plus-Size Passengers
With change comes a level of concern regarding passengers of size. The previous policy was relatively accommodating, allowing passengers who required extra space to obtain a second seat for free. However, the newly instituted policy stipulates that extra seats must now be purchased, albeit with the promise of a refund if an adjacent seat is available at the time of travel. While this remains a more lenient option than most airlines, it has sparked discussions about the treatment of larger passengers in the air.
What Lies Ahead for Southwest Airlines?
The next few months will be crucial for Southwest as it implements these changes. The success of the assigned seating system will hinge on how well passengers adapt to the new procedures and whether the airline can maintain its reputation for friendly and efficient service despite these changes. As the growth of budget airlines continues to challenge traditional models in the travel industry, Southwest's evolution toward a more customer-oriented approach may be essential for its longevity.
For those who have cherished the unique charm of Southwest Airlines, it's time to embrace the change and see how these new policies could enhance the flying experience moving forward.
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