Southwest Airlines switches to assigned seating on Jan 27 2026
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Southwest Airlines ended its 54‑year open‑seating policy on 27 January 2026, moving to an assigned‑seat system that uses eight boarding groups.
Under the new system, passengers on eligible fares can choose their seats, while Basic‑fare travelers receive a seat assignment at check‑in, and the airline expects the changes to generate $1.8 billion of additional earnings before interest and taxes for 2025‑2026.