DALLAS- Southwest Airlines (WN), based in Dallas (DFW), Texas, is undergoing a comprehensive transformation of its services, fare structure, and passenger amenities.
The carrier is transitioning from its iconic “Wanna Get Away” concept to new “Basic” and “Choice” fare classes, while simultaneously introducing assigned seating, extra legroom options, and changes to its previously industry-leading baggage policy.
Southwest New Perks
Southwest’s transformation marks a significant departure from its long-standing operating model. Beginning in Q3 2025, the airline will implement assigned seating for flights departing in 2026 and beyond. This change introduces a tiered seating approach:
- Extra legroom seating at the front of the aircraft
- Preferred seating in the middle section
- Standard seating in the rear half
These changes dramatically alter the Southwest experience, which has historically featured open seating and a first-come, first-served boarding process. The airline appears to be aligning more closely with industry standards while creating new revenue opportunities.
Elite Status and Credit Card Benefits
Southwest has carefully structured its new seating benefits to reward loyal customers and credit card holders:
A-List Preferred Members
- Select any seat at booking time, including premium extra legroom options
- Two free checked bags maintained
A-List Members
- Extra legroom seat selection within 48 hours of departure
- Immediate access to preferred or standard seats at booking
- One free checked bag
Credit Card Benefits by Card Type
The airline has created a tiered approach to seat selection based on card level:
Priority & Performance Business Cards:
- Extra legroom seats within 48 hours of departure
- Preferred/standard seats at booking time
- One free checked bag
Premier & Premier Business Cards:
- Preferred/standard seat selection within 48 hours
- One free checked bag
Plus Card & Southwest Business Card:
- Standard seat selection within 48 hours
- One free checked bag
Baggage Policy Changes
Perhaps the most notable shift is Southwest’s departure from its signature “Bags Fly Free” policy. Starting May 28, 2025, the airline will begin charging for checked luggage, with exceptions only for elite members and credit card holders:
- A-List Preferred maintains two free checked bags
- A-List and all co-branded cardholders receive one free checked bag
- General passengers will pay fees (rates not yet announced)
This represents a fundamental shift in Southwest’s market positioning, which has long emphasized its free baggage policy as a key differentiator from competitors.
The New Southwest Experience
These changes collectively represent Southwest’s most significant service evolution in decades. While some travelers may lament the loss of signature policies like free bags and open seating, elite members and credit cardholders stand to benefit from new perks that could enhance their overall experience.
The airline appears to be creating a more stratified product that rewards loyalty while generating new revenue streams—a balancing act that will be closely watched by industry observers and passengers alike.
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