Southwest Airlines Ends Open Seating Policy
Assigned Seats to Replace Open Seating Plan
Boarding Positions to Be Determined by Fare Status and Check-In Time
Southwest Airlines is putting an end to its open seating policy, which has been a hallmark of the airline for over 50 years. Starting in 2021, passengers will be assigned seats upon check-in, ending the long-standing practice of allowing passengers to choose their own seats.
The new policy is part of Southwest's efforts to improve the boarding process and reduce delays. Under the current system, passengers often rush to the gate to get a good seat, which can lead to long lines and congestion. By assigning seats, Southwest hopes to speed up the boarding process and make it more efficient.
Passengers will be assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position within that group (1-60) upon check-in. Boarding will begin with Group A, followed by Group B and then Group C. Passengers within each group will board in numerical order.
Southwest says that the new seating policy will not affect the airline's low-fare model. The airline will continue to offer a variety of fare options, includingrefundable and non-refundable tickets.
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