Southwest Airlines Ends Open Seating Policy After 50 Years, and More

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Southwest Airlines Ends Open Seating Policy, Adapts to Competitive Pressures

Southwest Airlines is ending its signature open seating policy after more than 50 years, transitioning to assigned seats and introducing premium seating options with extra legroom.

This major shift aims to broaden the airline's appeal, attract more customers, and increase revenue.

Key Points

• The airline says that 80% of current Southwest customers and 86% of potential customers prefer assigned seating.

• Southwest will charge more for premium seats with extra legroom, available starting in 2025.

• The airline will also begin offering red-eye overnight flights for the first time.

• These changes come as Southwest faces pressure from activist investors and competitors to improve profitability and competitiveness.

• Southwest's open seating policy was seen as a key part of its low-cost, egalitarian brand identity.

What It Means

The end of Southwest's open seating era represents a significant shift in the airline's business model and brand identity. By offering assigned seats and premium options, Southwest is moving closer to the strategies of its major competitors like American, Delta, and United.

This change may help Southwest attract more high-paying business travelers and boost revenue in the face of increasing competition from ultra-low-cost carriers.

However, the transition also risks alienating some longtime customers who appreciated Southwest's unique boarding process and egalitarian approach.

As Southwest adapts to changing customer preferences and industry pressures, it will need to strike a balance between preserving its distinctive culture and staying competitive in a challenging market.

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