Southwest Airlines Seat Selection Policy (2026): Assigned Seating
Explained
Quick Answer: Southwest Airlines Seat Selection: Southwest Airlines uses an open seating policy, which means passengers are not assigned
seats in advance. Instead, travelers receive a boarding group and boarding position at check-in, then choose any available seat once they board the aircraft.
Passengers who want earlier seat access can purchase EarlyBird Check-In, Upgraded Boarding, or Business Select fares.
Last Updated: March 2026
Southwest Airlines is transitioning from its long-standing open seating system to assigned seating for flights departing on or after January 27, 2026. This change means passengers can now select seats during booking, depending on their fare type, rather than choosing any available seat after boarding.
Ref : https://www.southwest.com/airfare-types-benefits/
This guide explains how Southwest Airlines seat selection works under the new system, outlines the Southwest seat selection policy, and describes available
seat types and upgrade options.
This guide is based on publicly available Southwest Airlines seating policy information and standard airline industry practices.
How Seat Selection Works on Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines now uses an assigned seating system for flights departing on or after January 27, 2026. Understanding how the new system works helps travelers choose the right fare and seat before departure.
Ref : https://www.southwest.com/customer-enhancements/assigned-seating
Southwest Seat Assignment Rules by Fare Type
The fare type you purchase determines when and how you can select a seat.
Basic fare passengers are automatically assigned a standard seat at check-in, which opens 24 hours before departure. There is no advance seat selection available on Basic fares; the seat is assigned by the system at that point.
Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra fares allow seat selection at the time of booking. Passengers on these fares can view the seat map and pick their preferred position when completing the reservation. Higher fare bundles also include access to better seat categories such as Preferred and Extra Legroom seats.
Boarding Groups
Southwest organises passenger boarding into Groups 1 through 8. Your boarding group is determined by your fare type, Rapid Rewards status, and any additional perks on your booking.
- Groups 1–2 — Premium fare passengers and those with Extra Legroom seats. Also includes A-List and A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards members and EarlyBird Check-In holders
- Groups 3–5 — Choice and Choice Preferred fare passengers
- Groups 6–8 — Basic fare passengers, who are typically assigned later boarding positions
Boarding earlier gives passengers more access to overhead bin space, which is particularly relevant for those travelling with full-size carry-on bags.
Southwest Preferred Seats and Extra Legroom Seats
Southwest’s assigned seating system includes three main seat categories:
- Standard Seats — Basic legroom seats, typically located toward the rear of the cabin. Included on all fares
- Preferred Seats — Standard legroom seats positioned near the front of the cabin. Offer faster deplaning and easier bin access. Available as an upgrade or included with Choice Preferred fares
- Extra Legroom Seats — Located in the first rows and exit rows, these seats provide additional pitch compared to standard seats and may include early boarding benefits.
Southwest preferred seats are typically located closer to the front of the cabin, while southwest extra legroom seats provide additional pitch and may include early boarding benefits.
Seat Changes and Pricing
Seat selections can be changed before departure using the Modify Seats option available on Southwest’s website and mobile app. As long as your fare rules permit it, changes can be made at no additional cost, though any upgrade fees already paid are typically non-refundable.
Upgrade pricing on Southwest is dynamic, meaning costs vary depending on the route, how far in advance you book, and current seat availability. Seat upgrades purchased during booking may differ in price from upgrades purchased later, depending on seat availability and demand.
Bundle credits, if unused, may be transferable depending on the fare conditions. Always confirm the specific terms at the time of purchase directly with Southwest.
For Southwest carry-on and checked baggage rules, see our Southwest Airlines baggage guide.
Fees & Pricing Structure | Southwest Airlines
Seat selection availability and upgrade costs may vary depending on route, demand, and ticket type.
Estimated pricing ranges are based on publicly available information and may vary depending on route, demand, and availability.
Current Southwest Boarding Features
EarlyBird Check-In
- Automatically checks passengers in earlier
- Improves the boarding position
Upgraded Boarding
- Available at the gate if A1–A15 positions remain
Business Select
Includes:
- Priority boarding (A1–A15)
- Premium drink
- Bonus Rapid Rewards points
Why Southwest Airlines Seat Selection Is Different From Other Airlines
For most of its history, Southwest Airlines used an open seating model, one of the few major U.S. carriers to do so. Instead of being assigned a seat, passengers received a boarding position (A, B, or C group) and chose any available seat after boarding, rewarding early check-in and loyalty status over pre-selection.
The transition to assigned seating starting January 2026 brings Southwest closer to the model used by Delta, United, and American Airlines.Key differences remain, Southwest’s boarding group system still determines when passengers board, and seat type is tied to the fare bundle rather than sold separately, which is distinct from how most other carriers structure seat selection fees.
For passengers familiar with the previous system, the core change is simple: seat selection is now available at booking for Choice fares and above, rather than at the gate.
Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Options
Passengers may purchase a southwest extra legroom seat upgrade depending on seat availability and fare eligibility.
During Booking
Some fare bundles allow passengers to select preferred or extra legroom seats during the booking process.
After Booking
Seat upgrades may be available through the airline website or mobile app before departure.
At the Airport
If seats remain available, upgrades may also be offered during check-in or at the airport gate.
Rapid Rewards loyalty members may receive additional seating benefits depending on their status level.
• A-List members may receive earlier seat selection access depending on status.
• A-List Preferred members may have higher priority for available upgrades
• Credit card holders may receive promotional upgrade offers depending on availability
These benefits vary by flight and fare conditions.
Tips on How to Choose Seats on Southwest Flights
Travelers may improve their chances of getting preferred seats by planning ahead.
• Review the seat map during booking when available
• Check seat options early before flights fill up
• Consider upgrading to preferred or extra legroom seats if additional space is needed
• Monitor seat availability through the airline app before departure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do Rapid Rewards members receive seat selection benefits?
Rapid Rewards A‑List and A‑List Preferred members receive priority boarding and may have enhanced access to Preferred or Extra Legroom seats, depending on fare bundle and availability. Exact benefits are still being rolled out under the new system.
Can I change my seat selection on Southwest after booking?
Seat changes are generally permitted before departure within your fare’s rules using the Modify Seats option on Southwest’s website or app. Seat fees paid for upgrades are typically non-refundable.
Southwest seat selection fees refundable?
Seat upgrade fees are generally non-refundable. Bundle credits, however, may be transferable depending on the fare conditions. Always confirm refund and transfer terms at the time of purchase.
When did Southwest switch to assigned seating?
Southwest Airlines introduced assigned seating for flights departing on or after January 27, 2026. Bookings made from July 29, 2025 onward operate under the new assigned seating system.
What are the benefits for families and special needs?
Families should book fare bundles that allow advance seat selection so they can choose seats together on the seat map. Passengers needing special seating or extra assistance should contact Southwest in advance or at the airport to request appropriate seating and pre‑boarding where eligible.
What is the difference between a Preferred seat and an Extra Legroom seat on Southwest?
Preferred seats are standard legroom seats positioned near the front of the cabin, offering faster deplaning and easier overhead bin access. Extra Legroom seats provide an additional 3–5 inches of legroom compared to standard seats and are located in the first few rows and exit rows. Extra Legroom seats also include early boarding in Groups 1–2.
MyBaggageInfo provides independent travel guidance and is not affiliated with Southwest Airlines.
Disclaimer: All information on MyBaggageInfo is provided for general travel guidance only. Airline policies, baggage rules, and fees can change at any time without prior notice. While we strive to keep our content accurate and updated, travelers should always verify details directly with the airline before their journey. MyBaggageInfo is not responsible for any errors, delays, or decisions made based on the information provided.
