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Southwest Airlines has recently announced a significant policy adjustment. This entails the removal of open seating and the addition of red-eye flights.

In a press release, the airline expressed that after engaging with customers and conducting thorough research, it was compelled to transition away from its 50-year tradition of open seating. Southwest emphasized that customers embarking on longer flights would benefit from the introduction of assigned seating.

“Moving to assigned seating and offering premium legroom options will be a transformational change that cuts across almost all aspects of the Company,” said Bob Jordan, President, CEO, & Vice Chairman of the Board via a press release. “Although our unique open seating model has been a part of Southwest Airlines since our inception, our thoughtful and extensive research makes it clear this is the right choice— at the right time—for our customers, our people, and our shareholders.”

The airline industry experts have described this as a significant shift in the history of Texas-based airlines. In addition to the implementation of assigned seating, Southwest has announced its plan to introduce red-eye flights starting in 2025.

Commencing on February 14, 2025, coinciding with Valentine’s Day, Southwest will offer nonstop flights from Las Vegas to Baltimore and Orlando, Los Angeles to Baltimore and Nashville, and Phoenix to Baltimore. The airline has outlined its intention to gradually incorporate more red-eye flights as part of its multi-year transition to a 24-hour operation.

It’s worth noting the press release did not mention when the assigned seating process would begin.

My Opinion on Southwest’s Decision to End Open-Seating

If I were a dedicated Southwest customer, I’d find the recent announcement intriguing.

However, I’d also approach it with a degree of caution, considering the industry’s tendency for emulation among airlines. I can’t help but reflect on Delta’s introduction of basic economy seats and how it became a widespread practice across airlines, with the notable exception of Southwest.

Southwest has always adhered to its unique approach. Presently, the complimentary two-bag policy is highly acclaimed among my peers and family members. I fondly recall the convenience of checking two bags and the affordability of a $49 flight from Chicago Midway to Memphis during my previous experiences with Southwest.

My apprehension stems from the possibility of Southwest moving in a direction akin to the major airlines’ choices over the years. While the industry undergoes constant change, my hope is that Southwest maintains its distinctive position rather than aligning itself with others.

While it is undoubtedly advantageous for customers to have Southwest listed on Google Flights and with assigned seating, I am wary of the potential for Southwest to conform more closely to the practices of other airlines, which may not necessarily be in the best interest of its loyal customer base.