Miles and Points Travel

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If you’ve ever flown with Southwest, you know the drill. Line up in your boarding section and then make the mad scramble to snag your preferred seat. It’s stressful for some, and for others, they prefer it. Well all of that is about to change…

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How it will work

• Seat selection begins July 29, 2025 for travel January 27, 2026, onward
• Variety of seat types: Southwest introduces fare bundles with seat tiers:

• Extra Legroom
• Preferred
• Standard

• Fare bundles include:

• Basic: auto-assigned at check-in, last to board, baggage & boarding for fee
• Choice: choose standard seat, normal boarding, bags cost extra
• Choice Preferred: choose preferred seats, earlier boarding
• Choice Extra: choose extra-legroom seats, earlier boarding, includes two free checked bags

• Loyalty perks:

• Rapid Rewards A‑List & A‑List Preferred, plus credit cardholders, get early seat access.
• A‑List Preferred boards no later than Group 2; A‑List and Credit Card holders by Group 5

• New boarding model:

• Eight boarding groups (1–8), replacing A/B/C.
• Extra-legroom and elite-status passengers board first

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Traveler Impact

Pros:

• Predictability & comfort – No more gate chaos or hoping for your preferred seat.
• Fewer surprises – Peace of mind for families, couples, and travelers needing specific seats.
• Premium options – Ability to upgrade via fare bundle or loyalty perks.

Cons:

• Fare complexity – More tiers to navigate.
• Fees for basics – Basic fare passengers lose baggage perks and boarded later.

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Tips for Travelers

• Book early (≥ July 29) to get your preferred seat and boarding group.
• Check loyalty perks: A‑List status and credit cards add value.
• Families should book Choice or above to guarantee togetherness—Basic auto-assignment is less reliable.
• Evaluate seat bundles: Extra space ≠ huge cost—may be worth it on longer flights.

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Bottom Line

Southwest’s change is a milestone—it brings the airline in line with standard practice but preserves its hallmark value and perks for elite members. If you’ve longed for certainty in your seat and boarding, this is for you. But if you cherished that spontaneous seat dash and simplicity, prepare for an adjustment. I, for one, am ready for this positive change!

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What do you think—excited to pick your own seat or nostalgic for the old scramble?