Southwest Airlines introduces assigned seating starting January 2026

When booking through Southwest's website for post-January 2026 flights, customers will now see a seat map similar to those offered by other major airlines. For example, on a one-way flight from Washington National Airport (DCA) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Basic fares start at $118—$30 less than the Choice fare for that route. While Basic ticket holders cannot select regular seats for free in advance, they can pay an additional $60 to choose an extra-legroom seat.

Choice Preferred fares provide access to seats near the front of the aircraft without additional legroom benefits. The higher-priced Choice Extra bundle grants access to any available seat on board along with added perks.

For award bookings using Rapid Rewards points—for instance, from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)—the new pricing tiers apply: Basic at 28,000 points; Choice at 30,500 points; Choice Preferred at 36,000 points; and Choice Extra at 43,000 points.

All Southwest credit card holders receive one free checked bag for themselves and up to eight companions traveling under the same reservation. Some cards offer limited complimentary seat selection within 48 hours of departure or even extra-legroom access close to takeoff for premium cardholders.

A-List and A-List Preferred members continue to enjoy baggage allowances as well as enhanced boarding and seating options under this revised system.

"Every card will also get you at least some sort of seat selection — in some cases, within 48 hours of departure. Two of the carrier's higher-priced cards come with complimentary extra-legroom access closer to takeoff."

"A-List and A-List Preferred members also get baggage, boarding and seating benefits under the new setup."

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