Summary
Southwest Airlines is changing its boarding and seating policies. Starting January 27, 2026, Southwest will move from open seating to assigned seating and introduce new fare bundles. The airline also ended its free checked bags policy in May 2025, meaning passengers now pay for checked luggage unless they book the highest fare options.
Key Facts
- Southwest Airlines will implement assigned seating starting January 27, 2026, ending its open seating policy.
- The airline will offer different seating options like Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom.
- New fare bundles will include four levels: Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra.
- The "Bags Fly Free" policy ended in May 2025; the first checked bag costs $35, and the second $45.
- Boarding will change to an eight-group system based on seat location and fare type.
- Family boarding ensures children under 13 are seated with an adult.
- Credits for canceled flights have an expiration limit—up to 12 months for some fares and 6 months for Basic fares.
- The changes aim to make boarding more efficient and improve the customer experience.
