Southwest Airlines Ends Open Seating After 50 Years

The airline's iconic boarding process is officially a thing of the past.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:47pm

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After more than 50 years, Southwest Airlines has officially done away with its open seating policy, marking a major shift for the airline. Passengers flying Southwest are now assigned seats, which can be selected in advance for an additional fee. The change has drawn mixed reactions from customers, with some welcoming the increased efficiency and others lamenting the loss of the airline's signature boarding process.

Why it matters

Southwest's open seating policy was a key part of the airline's identity and customer experience. The shift to assigned seating brings Southwest more in line with industry standards, but also represents the end of an era for the airline and its loyal customers.

The details

Under the new system, passengers can select their seats in advance for a fee ranging from $15 to $40, depending on the seat location and flight. Those who don't choose a seat will be assigned one at check-in. The change is designed to improve the customer experience and boarding process, but has drawn criticism from some longtime Southwest flyers who are upset about the additional fees.

  • Southwest officially ended its open seating policy on January 27, 2026.

The players

Southwest Airlines

A major U.S. airline known for its low fares and open seating policy, which it has now abandoned after more than 50 years.

Albert Figueroa

A passenger at Sacramento International Airport who expressed displeasure with Southwest's new seating policy and associated fees.

Craig Wiesen

A passenger who welcomed Southwest's shift to assigned seating, saying it will remove uncertainty and speed up the boarding process.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not a big fan of that. In this economy, the way stuff is right now, it's not the best.”

— Albert Figueroa

“Assigned seating removes uncertainty and will speed up the boarding process once passengers step onto the plane.”

— Craig Wiesen

What’s next

Southwest said the new seating policy is designed to improve the customer experience, but it remains to be seen how passengers will adapt to the change in the long run.

The takeaway

Southwest's decision to end its iconic open seating policy after more than 50 years marks a significant shift for the airline, reflecting broader industry trends towards assigned seating and additional fees. While some customers welcome the increased efficiency, others lament the loss of a unique aspect of the Southwest experience.