Southwest Airlines Ends Open Seating Policy After 5 Decades

After over 50 years, Southwest Airlines declares the end of its open seating policy. Instead of its open seating policy, the airline will start having assigned seats and premium extended legroom options.

The airline discovered that their passengers prefer having assigned premium seating. Based on their study, 80% of its customers and 90% of potential customers would like to have assigned seats. 

According to the airline’s CEO, Bob Jordan, “Our implementation of assigned and premium seating is part of an ongoing and comprehensive upgrade to the Customer Experience, one that research shows Customers overwhelmingly prefer.” 

This move wasn’t exactly a surprise. In April, Jordan hinted that Southwest is looking to change its boarding and seating process.

This comment came after questions were raised regarding Southwest’s financial situation following Boeing delays. Profits dropped significantly in the April-June period, falling 46% from last year to $367 million. Southwest said that these changes won’t “compromise the airline’s operational efficiency.”

Single-Economy Class Seating

The Texas-based airline used single-economy class seating with open seating assignments for more than five decades. Passengers were assigned a boarding group but could choose any available seat once onboard. Southwest charges extra for passengers to board earlier and choose their seats. 

The change in its seating policy is expected to bring higher profits to the airline. Southwest said that it is planning to include extended legroom for passengers. This comprises roughly one-third of the cabin’s seats. 

Southwest’s press release said, “When a customer elects to stop flying with Southwest and chooses a competitor, open seating is cited as the number one reason for the change.” It added,  “By moving to an assigned seating model, Southwest expects to broaden its appeal and attract more flying from its current and future customers.”

Despite the announcement, the airline however didn’t disclose when the changes would take place. It is expected to announce more details in September.