Southwest Officially Rolled Out Its Most Controversial Policy Change-What to Know

"For the first time in more than 50 years, travelers on Southwest Airlines will have assigned seats and customers of size who need additional space will have to purchase an extra seat in advance of their flight. The changes took effect today, Jan. 27, 2026, and ended two policies Southwest has long been known for: open seating, which allowed passengers to choose their own seats at boarding, and a free extra seat policy for customers of size."

"Both policy shifts mimic those found on other major U.S. airlines like Delta, United, and American. Southwest's new assigned seating policy makes it so customers choose their seats during the ticket booking process with the option to upgrade for extra legroom seating or preferred seating. Travelers who book the airline's "Basic" fare will be assigned a seat at check-in. The assigned seating shift includes the arrival of a group-based boarding process for all Southwest flights."

Southwest Airlines implemented assigned seating and a paid extra-seat requirement for customers of size effective Jan. 27, 2026. The changes end open seating and the previous free extra-seat policy used by the airline. Customers choose seats during booking, with optional upgrades for extra legroom or preferred seating; Basic fares receive assignments at check-in and group-based boarding will be used. Travelers who do not fit between armrests or who encroach on neighboring seats must purchase an extra seat in advance. If an extra seat exists on the flown aircraft, passengers have 90 days after travel to request a refund; no refund is given if the plane was full. Passengers without a purchased extra seat who need one will be required to buy one at the airport or be rebooked if no adjacent seats are available.

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