Starting July 24, 2025, Chase and Southwest Airlines are rolling out a series of significant changes to the Southwest Rapid Rewards® credit cards—part of a broader effort to align the credit card experience with Southwest’s evolving customer journey.

Southwest will assign seats for the first time ever in 2026. Here’s how group boarding will work — and what it means for your next flight.

Starting July 29, customers can begin booking tickets with seat assignments for flights departing January 27, 2026.

Just two months after ending its long-standing “Bags Fly Free” policy, the airline has announced when it will roll out assigned seating — a significant shift from its traditional boarding process. For decades, Southwest used a first-come, first-served system, along with free checked bags, that set it apart from its competitors.

Southwest Airlines wants to make it easier for you to get status in its Rapid Rewards program.. Beginning Jan. 1, it’s lowering the threshold to qualify for A-List and A-List preferred status.

Southwest Airlines instituted its new bag policy, which was previously announced in March. "For reservations booked and ticketed or changed on or after May 28, 2025, checked baggage fees will apply. We will offer two free checked bags to our Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members

Southwest Airlines' signature boarding style is being replaced with zoned groups and customizable seating perks.

After Southwest made big changes to its baggage and seating policies, the CEO floated a few more ideas. What's on the table for 2025 and beyond.

Southwest's open seating policy and the offer of two free checked bags initially set it apart from its larger, more established competitors, but both policies have been eliminated

Southwest Airlines wants to make it easier for you to get status in its Rapid Rewards program.. Beginning Jan. 1, it’s lowering the threshold to qualify for A-List and A-List preferred status.