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Southwest Airlines Seat Selection & Seat Upgrade
Southwest Airlines has switched from its iconic open seating policy to assigned seating for flights departing on or after January 27, 2026.
This gives passengers like you more control over your in-flight experience.
Quick Overview
Southwest Airlines is adopting more traditional assigned seating with premium options. They are giving travelers like you more choices but requiring payment for better spots. This is a significant shift from their iconic open seating.
Need assistance with Airline seat selection or upgrade? Call us toll-free +1-855-510-5187 for an step-wise-step seat selection guide.
Seat Selection Basics | The 13 Points to Keep Your Mind
Southwest Airlines Seat Selection and Seat Upgrade basics that you should know:
- Southwest now uses assigned seating for flights booked from July 29, 2025, onward and departing on or after January 27, 2026, ending the open-seating system.
- Your fare type is decided when you choose a seat:
- Basic fares get an automatically assigned Standard seat at check-in (24 hours before departure).
- Choice and higher fares let you pick your seat at the time of booking.
- Boarding is now organized into Groups 1–8, based on your fare, status, and perks:
- Groups 1–2 board first (premium fares and Extra Legroom seats).
- Groups 6–8 are typically Basic fares.
- Standard seats are free on all fares and are usually located toward the back of the cabin.
- Preferred seats near the front help you deplane faster and access overhead bins more easily.
- Included with Choice Preferred fares
- Or available as a $10–$45 upgrade
- Extra Legroom seats offer 3–5 inches more space, mostly near the front or exit rows.
- Free with Choice Extra fares
- Or available for $30–$150
- Board early in Groups 1–2
- EarlyBird Check-In ($15–$25) and Priority Boarding still help you board earlier, but they no longer guarantee front seats.
- Rapid Rewards benefits matter more:
- A-List members can select seats 48 hours before departure
- Cardholders and elite flyers get access to better seat options
- Seat maps on the app and website show legroom, lavatory proximity, and cabin layout, so you know what you’re choosing.
- You can upgrade seats anytime before departure using the “Modify Seats” option.
- Prices are dynamic
- Bundles are usually cheaper than buying upgrades later
- Families can sit together by booking under one reservation and choosing adjacent seats.
- There is no separate family boarding under the new system.
- Seat fees are non-refundable, but bundle credits are transferable.
- Seat changes are free as long as fare rules allow.
- Boarding: Replaces A/B/C groups with Groups 1-8, tied to seat type and fare.
Also Read: Carry-on & Checked-in Baggage Policy Simplified for Southwest Airlines
Fees & Pricing Structure | Southwest Airlines
Fees vary by route, demand, and timing; no refunds for unused upgrades. Bundles save 20-30% versus à la carte buys.
Types of Seats in Southwest Airlines
It offers the 3 main types of seats under its assigned seating policy:
Standard Seat
These offer basic legroom (31 inches pitch). These are located toward the back of the cabin.
Preferred Seat
These are standard legroom seats. These are positioned near the front for quicker deplaning and bin access.
Extra Legroom Seat
Extra legroom Seats in Southwest Airlines offer up to 5 extra inches of legroom (34 inches of pitch on 737-700s), mainly in the 1st five rows and exit rows. You get the plus perks like early boarding (Groups 1–2), snacks, and drinks.
Seat Upgrade Options
Here are your upgrade options:
During Booking
Opt for Choice Preferred or Extra bundles upfront for guaranteed Preferred or any-seat access, usually cheaper than upgrading later. These Bundles come up with extras like transferable flight credits.
Post-Booking Upgrades
Use the website’s “Modify Seats” tool anytime before your flight to bid on or buy upgrades if seats open, at prices that change with demand. Cardholders and elites can see priority offers through email.
At the Airport
Gate upgrades cost more but can grab a last-minute spot; arrive early to ask at the kiosk. No standby lists exist after check-in, emphasizing online management.
What are the tips for me for the best seat selection
- Book Choice/ higher fares for instant picks; check-in exactly 24 hours early for Basics.
- Use Rapid Rewards credit cards (e.g., Priority Card) for 48-hour early access and four upgraded boardings yearly.
- Target midweek flights for fewer full cabins and more upgrade availability.
- Enable app notifications for real-time openings; families book together under one confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Benefits for Frequent Flyers?
A-List members select early across fares; A-List Preferred guarantees Extra Legroom on 25% trips. Companion Pass holders match selections seamlessly. New seating boosts loyalty by rewarding points toward status faster.
When does Assigned Seating start?
Assigned seating will start from Jan. 27, 2026.
Can I Change Seats for Free?
Yes, within fare rules, pre-departure, no-shows forfeit.
What are the benefits for families and special needs?
Families select adjacent seats via bundles; infants lap-held, no extra fees under 2. Wheelchair users request bulkhead pre-boarding; pets in approved rear seats post-selection. Contact Southwest 24/7 support for accommodation
Are Fees Refundable?
No, but unused bundle credits transfer minus fee.
Written by: MyBaggageInfo Travel Research Team
Reviewed & Updated: 2026
Disclaimer: MyBaggageInfo.com is an independent third-party travel information website and is not affiliated with any airline.
