Southwest Airways Will Cost Passengers Who Can’t Match In A Single Seat Beginning January – Southwest Airways (NYSE:LUV)

Southwest Airways Co. LUV will eradicate its longstanding coverage of offering complimentary extra seats for passengers who can’t slot in a single seat, efficient January 27, 2026, when the service transitions to assigned seating.

Coverage Change Marks Finish of Open Seating Period

The Dallas-based service’s new coverage represents a big departure from its present “Buyer of Dimension” lodging. Underneath present guidelines via January 26, 2026, passengers who require additional house can obtain complimentary extra seats if accessible after arriving on the airport.

Starting January 27, 2026, passengers requiring extra seats should buy them on the airport at prevailing day-of-travel fares, plus relevant seat charges. This modification coincides with Southwest’s historic shift from open seating to assigned seats.

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Present vs. Future Coverage Framework

Underneath the present open-seating mannequin, Southwest defines house necessities by armrest boundaries and gives post-travel refunds for proactively bought additional seats if flights depart with accessible house.

The brand new assigned-seating coverage eliminates complimentary lodging. Passengers who arrive with out buying required extra seats face necessary airport purchases or rebooking to flights with adjoining seat availability.

Monetary Influence on Passengers and Income

Southwest maintains its 90-day refund coverage for additional seats bought prematurely, offered flights depart with open seats and each seats are in matching fare lessons. The service continues prohibiting seat purchases solely for private house preferences.

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Disclaimer: This content material was partially produced with the assistance of AI instruments and was reviewed and printed by Benzinga editors.

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