Understanding Southwest Airlines Assigned Seating Changes
Southwest Airlines is shaking up its signature open-seating model—introducing assigned seats and a new 8‑group boarding system. Here’s everything to know, tailored to busy families and stress-free travel seekers:
📅 Key Dates to Remember
- July 29, 2025: Travelers can start choosing seats at booking for flights beginning January 27, 2026
- January 27, 2026: Southwest officially rolls out assigned seating and the 8-group boarding process.
🧭 What Passengers Need to Know
1. Seat Selection Launches in July 2025
Starting July 29, Southwest will allow seat pick during booking—for Standard, Preferred, or Extra Legroom—depending on your fare choice, tier status, or credit‑card membership.
2. Assigned Seats Take Flight in January 2026
On January 27 all flights will have assigned seating. No more yard‑sale scramble—seats will be confirmed at booking or at check‑in for Basic fare travelers.
3. New Boarding System: Groups 1–8
Southwest is replacing the traditional A‑B‑C lineup with eight boarding groups.
- Groups 1–2: Choice Extra seats & Extra Legroom upgrades
- Groups 3–5: Choice Preferred, A‑List members, Rapid Rewards cardholders
- Groups 6–8: Choice & Basic fare travelers (Basic fares get automatic seat assignments at check‑in).
4. Fare Bundles & Perks Demystified
Southwest’s new bundles (Choice Extra, Choice Preferred, Choice, and Basic) come with seat and boarding benefits:
- Choice Extra: Choose at booking + board in groups 1–2
- Choice Preferred: Booking selection + board by group 5
- Choice: Standard seats + later boarding
- Basic: Seat assigned at check‑in; last to board.
5. Loyalty & Cardholder Benefits
- A‑List Preferred: Select any seat at booking, board by group 2
- A‑List: Preferred/Standard at booking; can upgrade to Extra Legroom 48 h prior; board by group 5
- Rapid Rewards Cardmembers: Boarding group 5 guaranteed, seat selection based on card tier—ranging from 48‑hour access to booking access for Preferred seats Travel Market Report+15Southwest Airlines+15Chron+15.
6. Family-Friendly Changes
Families booking under the same confirmation are grouped together. Basic fare families get assigned seats at check‑in or the gate, with children under 13 guaranteed placement next to an adult.
7. Extras: Priority Boarding & More
24 hours before departure, passengers can purchase Priority Boarding to secure an early group. EarlyBird Check‑In and upgraded boarding options end January 26, 2026.
🔍 Why It Matters: Your Travel Made Easier
- Peace of mind: No last-minute rush—your seat is yours from the start.
- Families benefit: Guaranteed seating together, even with Basic fares.
- Loyalty wins: Frequent flyers and cardholders get better seats and boarding perks.
- Extra Legroom option: Choose stretch space when booking or upgrade later.