Beginning next year, Southwest Airlines ends its open-seating policy. For years, Southwest has been known for its first-come, first-serve basis for seating with loyal customers returning time and again as a result (as well as two free checked bags).

The airline announced this possible change, with further news coming in September. The possibility of ditching this boarding and seating process comes after the airline cited weak financial results and first-quarter losses in 2024. Additionally, the airline has endured delays of new planes from Boeing, as well as the termination of flights to four airports.

In a statement the airline said, “The airline has been known for its unique open seating model for more than 50 years, but preferences have evolved with more Customers taking longer flights where a seat assignment is preferred. Additionally, Southwest conducted robust operational testing that included live and over 8 million simulation-based boarding trials.”

According to research conducted by the airline, 80 percent of Southwest customers and 86 percent of potential Southwest customers prefer an assigned seat. The airline found when customers choose to stop flying Southwest and opt for a competitor, open seating is cited as the No. 1 reason.

The decision comes as part of the airline’s ongoing modernization efforts. In the last two years, Southwest Airlines enhanced its onboard offerings with improvements like in-seat power, larger overhead bins and faster WiFi. The airline is also currently working on a refreshed cabin design, including new, more comfortable RECARO seats.

On top of this change, Southwest Airlines will also offer a premium, extended legroom portion of the cabin. Specific cabin layout details are still in design, but Southwest expects about one-third of the seats across its fleet to offer extended legroom.

“Moving to assigned seating and offering premium legroom options will be a transformational change that cuts across almost all aspects of the Company,” said Bob Jordan, president, CEO and vice chairman, Board of Southwest Airlines Co. “Although our unique open seating model has been a part of Southwest Airlines since our inception, our thoughtful and extensive research makes it clear this is the right choice— at the right time—for our Customers, our People, and our Shareholders. We are excited to incorporate Customer and Employee feedback to design a unique experience that only Southwest can deliver. We have been building purposefully to this change as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the Southwest experience as we focus on Customer expectations – and it will unlock new sources of revenue consistent with our laser focus on delivering improved financial performance.”

Southwest also adds 24-hour operation capabilities with the introduction of overnight, red-eye flights. Booking on initial flights is available today.

What are your thoughts on this policy change? Do you prefer an open-seating policy or assigned seats? What changes are you most excited for? Tell us your thoughts. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.