When will Southwest start assigning seats? Airline will change rules

Frequent Southwest Airlines Passengers who have become accustomed to airlines’ open seating policy will have to adapt to a new way of flying, as the airline is set to make widespread changes to its seating policy.

Here’s what you need to know.

Does Southwest have first class?

Southwest Airlines does not yet use assigned seating or offer first class options.

The budget airline said it is abandoning its decades-old open seating policy and moving to assigned seats and premium seats with extra legroom.

“Southwest has decided to assign seats and offer premium seating options on all flights,” it said Southwest Airlines Seat Announcement. “The airline has been known for its unique open seating model for more than 50 years, but preferences have evolved with more customers taking longer flights where a seat assignment is preferable.

“By moving to an assigned seating model, Southwest hopes to broaden its appeal and attract more flights from its current and future customers.”

When will Southwest start assigning seats?

Southwest Airlines’ press release did not provide a specific start date for its new assigned and premium seating program.

The press release indicated that Southwest Airlines officials intend to provide an update during investor day in late September, meaning the changes could take effect immediately thereafter.

How much will premium seats cost on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines’ press release does not explicitly state how much the premium seats will cost, nor whether the airline will offer any special seat deals through its Southwest Airlines Quick Rewards program.

Damon C. Williams is a Philadelphia-based journalist reporting on trending topics in the Mid-Atlantic region.

This article was originally published on USATNetwork: Assigned seats on Southwest to disappear