All articles tagged with #assigned seating
Originally Published 2 months ago — by Fox Business
Southwest Airlines is overhauling its boarding process by switching from open seating to assigned seating starting January 27, introducing the new WILMA boarding method that prioritizes window seats, and simplifying gate lines, as part of a broader effort to modernize its fleet and improve customer experience.
Originally Published 5 months ago — by CNBC
Southwest Airlines will switch to assigned seating starting July 29, 2025, with various ways for passengers to choose their seats, especially if they hold certain credit cards or elite status, and will also update its boarding process and introduce new premium seats.
Originally Published 5 months ago — by The Points Guy
Southwest Airlines will introduce assigned seating and a new eight-group boarding process starting January 2026, replacing its traditional single-file line. Boarding priority will be based on fare class, elite status, credit card ownership, and additional options like purchasing priority boarding. The change aligns Southwest with industry standards, with the key to early boarding being the purchase or upgrade to extra legroom seats, especially since the airline no longer offers a first-class cabin. The new system aims to streamline boarding while still rewarding higher-paying and elite customers.