Southwest Passengers Get Assigned Seats Starting January 27
🔃 Update: Now live! Southwest says that “customers have more choice from booking to arrival beginning today with assigned and premium seating available for purchase at Southwest.com®.” Here’s what the seat selection looks like:
➡️ Original article: Southwest Airlines passengers can start flying in their assigned seats for the first time on January 27. Customers can start buying tickets with assigned seats later this month, starting July 29.
The changes are part of Southwest’s new business model which has not been very popular with its loyal customers. Southwest had already announced these changes, which also include charging for checked bags for most passengers.
CNBC reports that starting January 27, the current boarding setup will be replaced by eight boarding groups, based on seat selection, status and other factors. Loyal customers and biggest spenders will get on first, but seat location will determine boarding position.
Here’s the order:
- The first two groups will include the top tiers of elite frequent flyers, and those with top classes of tickets.
- Groups three through eight will be for “Choice” and “Basic” ticketholders depending on their seat location.
- Credit card holders and Rapid Rewards credit card members will board no later than Group 5.
- There will be two queues.
The airline has not revealed prices for seat assignments. Southwest will sell standard seats, preferred seats and extra-legroom seats.
