Southwest Airlines Unveils Major Changes: Fare Policies and Seating Overhaul

New Policies to Transform Passenger Experience

Southwest Airlines, known for its distinctive approach to air travel, has announced a significant revamp of its policies, which will impact everything from seating arrangements to baggage allowances. This reformation is a direct response to evolving market needs and customer expectations. For travelers planning future trips, it's advisable to book flights soon, as several enticing perks will no longer apply once the changes take effect.

End of Open Seating

For decades, Southwest Airlines has held a unique position in the airline industry with its open seating policy, allowing passengers to select their own seats upon boarding. This approach originally operated on a first-come, first-served basis but was later adapted to a boarding group system. As of May 28, this hallmark feature will be phased out in favor of assigned seating, aligning more closely with the typical practices of other major airlines.

Starting in early 2026, all flights will offer assigned seating, with ticket sales for these flights beginning in late 2025. New fare bundles are set to launch, categorized as Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra, with the ability to choose seats tied to the fare class. Notably, passengers purchasing the Basic fare will need to pay to select a seat or may opt for a random allocation.

Changes to Baggage Policy

In another significant shift, Southwest Airlines will discontinue its longstanding benefit of allowing two free checked bags for most passengers. This change comes amid growing pressure to enhance revenue, as baggage fees have generated substantial income for airlines. For flights booked on or after May 28, most passengers will now incur fees for checked luggage, a departure from Southwest's previously customer-friendly policy. Only Business Select customers and A-List Preferred members of the Rapid Rewards program will retain the option for complimentary checked bags.

Flight Credits and Loyalty Program Changes

In addition to alterations in baggage policies, flight credits will also soon come with expiration dates for flights booked or altered after May 28. Previously, credits did not expire, but now passengers will see credits valid for 12 months for higher fare classes and only six months for the Basic fare. Moreover, the number of points earned for flights in the lower fare categories will decrease, while those in higher classes will see a slight increase in points accumulation.

Anticipated Customer Response

These changes are poised to elicit mixed reactions from loyal Southwest customers, who have cherished the airline’s previous policies. The airline's social media platforms have already seen an influx of criticism regarding the new baggage fees, suggesting that it may face backlash from its frequent flyers. Despite this, Southwest's CEO has indicated that there has been no significant drop in bookings following the announcement of these changes, suggesting that customer loyalty may remain intact in light of these new policies.

Booking Advice for Travelers

Travelers seeking to avoid paying baggage fees should consider booking flights before May 28, as those who secure their tickets by the May 27 deadline will retain the benefit of free checked bags. This policy adjustment marks a pivotal moment for Southwest Airlines, signaling a shift toward industry standards while aiming to balance profitability with customer loyalty.