The conclusion of a significant chapter for regular travelers on Southwest Airlines is approaching, as those who have relished strolling the aisles and grabbing a window seat on impulse will no longer have that option. This is due to the airline’s well-known and long-standing open seating system being phased out in January 2026. This shift follows shortly after Southwest discontinued its popular “Bags Fly Free” initiative in May 2025. So, what is driving these major adjustments at the nation’s leading budget airline?
It all boils down to financial considerations — and changing traveler preferences. Regarding customer satisfaction and fan base, Southwest Airlines has consistently been one of the most well-liked airlines in the United States. The brand is particularly cherished by cost-conscious travelers, and in 2023,J.D. Powerreleased the North America Airline Satisfaction Study, in which Southwest surpassed Delta and JetBlue, securing top position for customer satisfaction in the economy class. This likely stems from the fact that the airline haslarge seating, straightforward guidelines, and numerous nonstop flight options.
Some of Southwest’s appeal stems from its innovative take on standard industry practices. The airline has consistently maintained low ticket prices by utilizing a high-frequency, fast-turnaround model. The carrier operates exclusively with the Boeing 737, which streamlines pilot training and aircraft maintenance. It concentrates on non-stop flights to popular locations, occasionally serving smaller airports to minimize operational expenses.
Read more: The Four Unwritten Guidelines for the Aircraft’s Vacant Center Seats
The Conclusion of the Open Seating Period
Some of the airline’s cost-reduction strategies also benefited passengers. This was evident in the policy that let customers pick their own seats, which was introduced with Southwest’s initial flights in the 1970s. Surprisingly, allowing travelers to select their seats and check two bags at no cost reduced the time needed for boarding and deplaning. The airline claims this efficient approach helped maintain on-time departures, despite some customers having mixed feelings about the concept. However, the fact that certain passengers disliked the open seating arrangement led Southwest to try more traditional assigned seating options over the years, although the company consistently reverted to its original first-come, first-served seating system.
Unfortunately, for those who like to choose their seats on the spot, those times are gone. “The research is clear and shows that 80% of Southwest passengers, and 86% of possible customers, favor having a reserved seat,” stated the airline in 2024.statementBeginning July 29, 2025 (applicable to flights departing on or after January 27, 2026), travelers will have the option to select a seat during the booking process. While the airline is not introducing first-class or business-class sections, enhanced “Extra Legroom” choices will be offered for an extra charge. Therefore, if you are a regular Southwest customer, you might need to refresh your knowledge on how to make reservations.the ideal seat on the aircraft if you’re seeking maximum personal space. You may also want to explorethese popular TikTok creator’s tips for enhancing comfort on budget flights.
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