Southwest Airlines announces end of open seating with assigned seats in 2026

In the United States, Southwest Airlines, known for its unique open seating policy, is undergoing significant changes in its boarding and seating approach. The airline confirmed on July 21, 2025, that starting January 27, 2026, passengers will no longer have the ability to choose their seats during boarding. This shift marks the conclusion of an era where travelers could pick any available seat on the aircraft. New options will include assigned seating at the time of booking, with various fare bundles providing choices for different seating categories, including Extra Legroom seats. This long-awaited announcement follows years of speculation and internal assessments as the airline aims to align more closely with industry practices and improve the overall customer experience. Southwest's executive vice president of customer and brand, Tony Roach, stated that customers were looking for greater control over their travel experience, indicating a clear response to shifting customer expectations. The introduction of assigned seats will mean that passengers can choose their preferred seat type at the time of booking, effectively replacing the need for a boarding scramble upon arrival at the gate. Additionally, the airline will implement a new boarding process, assigning passengers to groups 1 through 8 based on their seat selections and fare types. This new system will prioritize those who opt for Extra Legroom seats and frequent flyer members, thus streamlining the boarding procedure. Alongside these changes, Southwest Airlines is also revising its fare structures to include premium options that can generate additional revenue, which is significant given the airline's recent financial pressures and changes to its baggage policy. Ultimately, this transition signifies a critical evolution for Southwest Airlines, traditionally known for its customer-friendly policies. The addition of assigned seating reflects market competition and the need to sustain profitability amid increasing operational costs and changing passenger expectations. The transformation is expected to begin reshaping the customer journey, enhancing reliability and predictability for airlines and travelers alike.