Southwest Airlines has already made several high-profile changes for its customers over the past several months, ending its beloved "bags fly free" policy and scrapping its longstanding open-seating policy.

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.

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

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

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.

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