Assigned Seats and Flight Cuts: What’s Next for Southwest Airlines?

CHICAGO, Ill. — Southwest Airlines is making headlines this week by announcing its service cuts at the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, with expansion of service in Nashville, and the implementation of its assigned seat policy.

Yes, these should probably be three different stories. However, I decided to make them mini-stories within one big story. Let’s dive into what’s happening in Atlanta and Nashville first.

Cutting Flights in the ATL while adding them in Music City

The Associated Press reports the low-cost carrier will reduce about one-third of its flights to Atlanta next year in order to save money. This decision comes as the airline faces pressure from a hedge fund to increase profits and boost its stock price. According to the AP report, Southwest will decrease its number of gates from 18 to 11, resulting in a reduction of 58 flights per day.

As Southwest cuts flights in Atlanta, the airline is expanding elsewhere. Southwest has released its schedule through next June, which includes new routes between Nashville and six other cities, as well as five new red-eye flights from Hawaii to Las Vegas and Phoenix. These additions will start in April.

One of the six new additions in Music City is a nonstop flight option from Nashville, Tennessee, to Memphis. This provides Memphians and Nashvillians with a convenient way to travel between the two cities without enduring the long and tedious three-hour drive.

Okay, Let’s Discuss the Assigned Seating Policy

Southwest announced that despite changes to its open seating policy, bags will still fly free. The airline revealed its vision for Southwest 2.0, which involves assigning seats to passengers for the first time, charging extra for more legroom, and offering red-eye flights.

The 50-year tradition of the open seating policy will end in 2026 when Southwest will introduce flights with assigned seats. Additionally, the airline stated that it will work to enhance the attractiveness of its frequent flyer program and credit card.

My Final Thoughts

I’m a bit confused about what’s happening at Atlanta’s airport. According to an AP report, Delta is cutting 300 pilot and flight attendant jobs, but those affected can keep their jobs by relocating. I’m concerned about Southwest cutting service in Atlanta and how that might impact ticket prices.

On a brighter note, I’m excited about the nonstop option between Nashville and Memphis. It would be great to fly from Nashville to catch a Grizzlies game or fly up to Nashville to watch the Predators play. I really like this idea and hope it becomes a popular route with more options available.

I’m also glad that Southwest Airlines still offers free checked bags, and I hope they don’t change that.