Southwest Reveals New Assigned Seating Details & A-List Perks

Southwest Airlines has announced more details about its upcoming assigned seating policy, which comes into effect in 2026.

Over the summer, Southwest dropped its longstanding open seating practice, which had been a key part of the brand’s identity for 57 years. Guests can begin to book tickets with assigned seating in the second half of 2025. 

Southwest has shared details about assigned seating on its website, including new information on an extra legroom category, as well as upcoming perks for members of its loyalty club, A-List. 

Once the new policy is rolled out, guests will have the option to pay to select a seat at the time of booking or have the airline assign the seat free of charge. All guests have the option to select an extra legroom seat for a fee.

Rapid Rewards Members in the A-List and A-List Preferred tiers will have additional perks for seat selection. 

Entry-level A-List tier passengers (minimum 20 one-way flights or 35,000 elite qualifying points) can choose an extra-legroom seat at no additional cost 48 hours before departure, while A-List Preferred members (40 one-way flights or 70,000 elite qualifying points) can choose an extra-legroom seat free of charge at the time of booking.

 A-List and A-List Preferred members will also receive priority boarding, and benefits can be shared with companions traveling on the same booking.

According to Southwest, Rapid Rewards credit card holders will gain additional benefits for their membership, which will be announced in spring 2025. 

Southwest is keeping its free baggage policy for its lowest fare. All Southwest travelers can check two bags free of charge, and there are no change or cancel fees.