Southwest Airlines has decided to transition from its traditional open seating policy, which has been in place since the company started in 1967, to a system of assigned seating.

The airline announced this shift as part of a three-year plan titled “Southwest. Even Better.”, which was introduced in September. During the Goldman Sachs Industrials and Materials Conference, Southwest’s CEO Bob Jordan described this change, which includes assigned and premium seating options, as “transformational.”

He mentioned, “While this won’t change our identity or the values we uphold, it will enable us to enhance the product we provide to our customers, aligning with their preferences.”

Here’s the latest information regarding Southwest’s new seating arrangements and the timeline for the introduction of assigned seating.

When will Southwest implement assigned seating?

Open seating will be phased out by early 2026.

Tickets for initial flights featuring assigned seating and premium options will be available for purchase in the latter half of 2025.

How will assigned seating work on Southwest?

The assigned seating system on Southwest will resemble that of other airlines. Passengers purchasing the lowest tier tickets can pick a seat for an additional fee, or they will receive an assigned seat the day before their flight.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to upgrade to premium seats, which offer up to 5 additional inches of legroom. Approximately one-third of Southwest’s seating will be designated as premium, and these passengers will have priority boarding.

Based on their membership status, Southwest Rapid Rewards members can choose their seats without incurring extra charges. A-List members can select standard legroom seats at booking without additional fees, with the option to upgrade to a premium seat for free within 48 hours of their flight if any are available. A-List Preferred members can choose any open seat, including those with extra legroom, without paying extra.

Here’s an overview of the availability of extra legroom seats on Southwest:

• Boeing 737-8 and 737-800: 68 seats with an extra 3 inches of legroom.
• Boeing 737-7: 48 seats with an extra 3 inches of legroom.
• Boeing 737-700: 40 seats with an extra 5 inches of legroom.

Southwest’s updated seating arrangement will feature six-way headrests, enhanced cushioning, and holders for electronic devices.