As of January 27, 2026, Southwest Airlines no longer has an open seating policy. Here's how Southwest now boards its aircraft and why it chose to go this route.

Southwest’s oft-chaotic open-seating policy is finally coming to an end — and while some anxious flyers may rejoice in the move, experts say it’s a harbinger of worse to come for economy passengers.

The Dallas, Texas-based carrier transitioned from its longtime open seating system in keeping with competitors like American, ...

Southwest Airlines is changing its long-standing extra seat policy for plus-size travelers, sparking debate among passengers. Here’s what you need to know. Southwest Airlines has long stood out in the ...