Southwest Airlines is doing away with open seats, one of its brand hallmarks over the past half century. Southwest is moving forward with plans to add assigned seating, the airline announced Thursday. It is also planning to add extra-legroom seats to its cabin for the first time.
As part of the changes, Southwest is also planning to revamp its unique boarding process, which currently sees customers lined up with posts numbered based on a pre-assigned boarding group and number.
It’s a major shift for the Dallas-based carrier — meant to entice more customers to fly Southwest and boost financial results that have plagued the company of late.
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“Although our unique open-seat model has been a part of Southwest Airlines since our inception, our thoughtful and extensive research makes it clear that this is the right choice – at the right time – for our customers, our people and our shareholders,” CEO Bob Jordan said. said a statement announcing the news.
Here’s what you need to know about the sweeping changes Southwest unveiled Thursday.
Southwest open seating end
More than 50 years after unveiling its open-seating concept, the carrier is doing away with its one-of-a-kind cabin seating setup.
Going forward, the carrier plans to assign seats to all passengers, similar to what you’ll find on other airlines.
The move would spell the end of one of Southwest’s best-known quirks, a longtime subject. Strategizing among Southwest loyalists hoping to find the best seat.
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Why is Southwest adding assigned seats?
For months, Southwest executives have Discussed the possibility of shifting to assigned seats.
In a statement Thursday, the carrier claimed 80% of its customers — and 86% potential Southwest customers – now select assigned seating.
“Preferences have evolved as more customers take longer flights where they prefer seat assignments,” the carrier said in a statement.
The changes, which include new extra-legroom seats, will present new revenue opportunities at a time when the carrier, like many of its competitors, has experienced declining profits.
How will Southwest’s ‘premium’ seats work?
As part of its seating changes, Southwest will add a “premium seating” option, which will cost extra.
These extra-legroom seats will represent about a third of the seats on Southwest planes.
The exact cabin layout is still being worked out, the airline said, promising new details later this year.
The addition of extra-legroom seats is seen as a way to increase the airline’s revenue opportunities. More profitable US airlines – such as Delta Air Lines and United Airlines – have cited booming premium demand as a key to recent success.
Southwest has long offered egalitarian cabins, but that’s set to change soon.
When will Southwest’s open seat end?
It’s not yet clear when Southwest’s sweeping seating changes will take effect.
Executives promised more details at the company’s investor day in September.
The carrier hasn’t hinted at whether any of its non-premium seats might come with an additional cost; A number of US airlines charge extra for “preferred” seats which are regular seats near the front of the cabin or in window or aisle positions.
Southwest has not announced any plans to increase revenue by charging for checked bags; Another hallmark of the carrier’s brand is its two free bags allowed to every customer (and a free full-size carry-on bag on every ticket).
Bottom line
It’s time for big change in the Southwest.
For decades, passengers have chosen their own seats and lined up through a uniquely numbered boarding process.
In the not so distant future – both practices are set to end – or at least undergo a major shift.
These changes come as the airline announced another first: the Red-eye flights begin early next year.
Also in 2025, Southwest plans to begin taking delivery of new aircraft with its new seat types.
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