Southwest Airlines says it will introduce assigned seats and premium perks in 2026

Southwest Airlines to Offer Assigned Seats and Premium Perks by 2026

Under assault from activist hedge fund Elliott Capital Management, the carrier's executives told a shareholder meeting that bags will still fly free, but much else will change for passengers of the budget airline.

Southwest Airlines details plan for assigned seats and premium perks

Southwest Airlines has unveiled its plan that gives passengers assigned seats, charges extra for more legroom and offers red-eye flights — but bags still fly free.

Southwest Airlines says assigned seats and premium perks are coming in 2026

The changes will amount to the biggest ever at Southwest, which is the original low-cost airline but is now well into middle age and suffering from sagging financial results.

Southwest Airlines Launches 'Even Better' Transformation Plan, Adds Board Member - RetailWire

Southwest Airlines announced its three-year transformation plan "Southwest. Even Better." at its Investor Day briefing in Dallas.

Southwest Airlines Stock Soars After C.E.O. Lays Out Overhaul

Southwest Airlines announced a three-year plan on Thursday to revitalize its operation and customer offerings as it defends against an activist investor calling for new leadership and a strategy overhaul. The plan expands on a series of changes by Southwest in recent months, including plans to add premium seats, introduce red-eye flights and replace its pick-your-own seating system with assigned seats, starting in 2026. The airline said on Thurs…

Southwest Airlines Announces Operational Overhaul, Including End to Open Seating

Southwest Airlines has announced a major shift in its operational model, including the end of its hallmark open-seating system, in an effort to align with shifting consumer preferences and boost profitability. The changes are part of a broader three-year transformation plan unveiled by Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan during an Investor Day event in Dallas on Sept. 26. The plan, branded “Southwest. Even Better,” promises to overhaul several asp…