Over the past few months Southwest Airlines has announced a number of controversial changes such as adding bag fees and changing its boarding process. Travelers have openly chastised the airline for its recent changes,

Southwest Airlines has announced a major change to its long-standing policy, giving customers the option to select their seat when booking a flight. The new policy will begin on Jan. 27, 2026, according to the airline’s statement.

“Southwest open seating is the ultimate expression of its founding ethos: to make air travel affordable and accessible for everyone.”—Official Southwest Airlines statement, as part of the airline’s 50th anniversary commemoration.