Southwest Airlines is about to change how it handles customer seating by switching to assigned and premium ones, a significant change from the sit-anywhere-you-want setup it’s had for over 50 years. The transformation comes as Southwest reported some turbulence in its earnings, with a 46 percent drop in profits for the second quarter, as reported by WSJ.
- Home
- Technology
- News
Southwest is switching to assigned seating
Southwest Airlines will switch to assigned seating and offer premium ones in an effort to swing back from dipping profits. It offered open seating for over 50 years.


In a press release, Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan said the changes will be based on employee and customer feedback. Jordan called offering seats with premium legroom and assignments “transformational” but did not offer a timeline or how it would look. The Airline said it has conducted simulation and live trials that helped it make the decision, and that customer preferences have evolved as they’ve started taking longer flights.
The new model comes as Southwest made other changes, like adding faster Wi-Fi, power outlets, and larger overhead bins, and the airline is working to refresh its cabins and upgrade to more comfortable seats. It’s a series of promising upgrades for the airline — and will hopefully eliminate the mad dash for the best boarding group.

China offers Pakistan J-35 Stealth jets, HQ-19 defense system
- 9 hours ago

Security forces neutralise two Indian-sponsored terrorists in Balochistan IBO: ISPR
- 9 hours ago

CTD nabs three RAW agents planning Eid attacks in Punjab
- 7 hours ago

PML-N’s Khawaja Saad Rafique rushed to hospital due to rapid heartbeat
- 10 hours ago
PM Shehbaz meets Saudi Crown Prince, discusses bilateral ties and regional stability
- 7 hours ago
EU nations move to restrict social media access for minors
- 9 hours ago

Lahore’s meat market transformed to global standards, citizens delighted
- 9 hours ago

Salaries of NA Speaker, Senate Chairman increased by over 600%
- 6 hours ago
X tests new feature to highlight posts across divides
- 7 hours ago
New COVID-19 variant detected for first time in UK
- 9 hours ago

Bangladesh’s Yunus announces elections in April 2026
- 8 hours ago

Beckham to be awarded knighthood by King Charles: reports
- 9 hours ago