Southwest Airlines Ends Open Seating: New Assigned Seats Start January 27

The commercial aviation landscape is shifting as Southwest Airlines implements its most significant operational change in decades. The airline is officially transitioning from its iconic open seating model to a standard assigned seating system.

This major policy update takes effect for all flights departing on or after January 27, 2026. The move aligns Southwest’s passenger experience more closely with that of other large United States carriers.

The End of Open Seating

For decades, Southwest was unique among major airlines for its open seating. Passengers would line up based on a boarding number. They could then choose any available seat upon boarding.

Under the new system, customers will select a specific seat when they book their flight. This change removes the need for the traditional pre-flight rush to secure a preferred window or aisle spot.

New Seating and Fare Categories

The shift to assigned seating introduces new fare bundles and seating options for travelers. The airline is now offering three distinct seating categories on its aircraft.

• Extra Legroom: These are premium seats, often in exit rows or the forward cabin.
• Preferred Seats: These are standard legroom seats located in the forward and middle sections.
• Standard Seats: These are the most affordable option, typically assigned in the middle and rear of the cabin.

The existing fare classes are also being overhauled into four new options. The former Wanna Get Away fare is now the restrictive Basic fare. This Basic fare includes a Standard seat assigned at check-in and is nonrefundable.

Boarding Process Transformation

The boarding procedure will also see a significant overhaul starting January 27, 2026. The previous A, B, and C boarding groups with numbered positions are being retired.

Southwest will now use a new Group 1 through 8 boarding structure. Boarding priority will be determined by the fare purchased and the traveler's elite status.

• Higher-priced fares like Choice Extra will receive earlier boarding groups.
• Rapid Rewards A-List and A-List Preferred members retain priority boarding access.

The goal is to create a more efficient and orderly boarding experience. The new structure is optimized for the assigned seating environment.

Impact on Aviation Stakeholders

This policy change represents a major evolution for the low-cost carrier model. The airline is seeking to increase ancillary revenue by charging for seat selection and premium seating. This strategy has been highly profitable for competitors.

For passengers, the change offers more certainty about seat location before they arrive at the airport. However, it also means that the lowest-priced Basic fares come with fewer benefits and flexibility.

Another policy adjustment involves the Customer of Size policy. Passengers requiring extra space must now purchase an additional seat in advance. A refund for the second seat is still possible if the flight is not sold out.

Aviation experts suggest that while customers may dislike the change, it is a proven model for revenue generation. The transition is expected to take time for loyal Southwest flyers to adjust.

Southwest Airlines continues to update its policies, including changes to its Rapid Rewards program. The airline states the goal is to give customers greater control over their travel experience.

flying.flights provides comprehensive commercial aviation news covering airlines, aircraft, and airports.