when does southwest start assigning seats

Southwest Airlines will start assigning seats for flights scheduled on and after January 27, 2026. This marks the end of their traditional open seating policy. Passengers will be able to choose and reserve their seats starting July 29, 2025, when booking tickets for these future flights. The seat assignment varies by fare type and loyalty status; for example, Rapid Rewards Credit Card members and A-List customers can select seats at booking or within 48 hours before departure. The new system also introduces a group boarding process based on seat location and customer status, replacing the previous open seating and boarding group letters policy.