Southwest Airlines Announces End Date for Open Seating Policy, Introduces Changes to Boarding Process and Credit Card Perks

Southwest Airlines is introducing assigned seating and a new boarding process starting July 29, 2025. Credit card holders, including the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card and Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card, can still choose their seats, regardless of fare type, and enjoy benefits such as unlimited upgrades to extra legroom seats and free checked bags. The airline is also introducing new Extra Legroom seats and eliminating its "Bags Fly Free" policy.

Southwest Airlines is set to revolutionize its passenger experience by introducing assigned seating and a new boarding process starting July 29, 2025. This change aims to provide customers with more choices and a more comfortable travel experience, particularly for credit card holders with the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card and Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card.

The new seating options include Extra Legroom seats, which offer up to five additional inches of legroom compared to standard seats. These seats are available in the front of the cabin and near the exit rows. Additionally, the airline is introducing new fare bundles, starting July 29, 2025, which will align with the new assigned seating policy. These bundles will offer various benefits such as earlier boarding, ticket refundability, and day-of-travel perks [1].

One of the key changes is the ability for credit card holders to choose their seats regardless of fare type. This includes unlimited upgrades to extra legroom seats and free checked bags. This policy extends to both the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card, providing significant benefits to frequent travelers [1].

The new boarding process will be based on seat location, prioritizing customers into boarding groups. Premium fares and the most loyal customers will have access to better seat types and will board earlier in the process. This new system aims to maintain an efficient and orderly boarding approach [1].

Southwest Airlines is also introducing new cabin designs and fare bundles that will take effect starting January 27, 2026. These changes include new cabin designs, new fare bundles, and tier and cardmember perks to match. The new cabin will feature new seat choices, and customers will have more choices when they travel with Southwest [1].

In summary, Southwest Airlines is introducing significant changes to its seating and boarding experience, offering more choices and benefits to customers. These changes are set to take effect in the coming months and will provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers.

References:
[1] https://www.southwest.com/customer-enhancements/assigned-seating/