Traveling with Southwest Airlines will no longer be quite the same experience for some passengers. The airline has decided to change its seat assignment rules.
For several years, passengers traveling on Southwest Airlines, an American ultra-low-cost airline, have been able to choose their preferred seat upon boarding, but this will soon no longer be the case.
When Southwest Airlines’ new seat selection policy takes effect (starting January 27, 2026, according to the low-cost airline’s press release), passengers will have to pay to select their preferred seats. For example, a window seat or a seat with more legroom.
Passengers with Elite status in the Rapid Rewards loyalty program will likely continue to enjoy this seat selection benefit for free, while other passengers who choose not to pay for this service will be assigned standard seats when checking in for their flight.