Big changes: Southwest Airlines elite status will soon be more important for frequent flyers

Southwest Airlines has historically been unique within the airline industry, known for its open seating policy where passengers pick any open seat when boarding there plane. But that’s all about to change.

With the airline’s announcement this morning, the cattle calling of lining up to get the best seat of the plane will go away starting in early 2026. This means travelers will eventually be able to reserve a seat in advance. This will start in the second half of 2025 when Southwest starts selling seat assignments for travel in the first half of 2026.

Additionally, Southwest will eventually be retrofitting its aircraft to introduce premium seating. These seats will offer more legroom than standard seats when you travel with the airline.

But as we all know — and have seen from other airlines — picking a seat in advance often comes with extra fees. Southwest hasn’t yet disclosed its full pricing model for seat selection, but it’s given insight into how elite members will be able to select them for free.

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