Southwest Airlines currently has open seating policy which allows seating on first come first serve basis. However, looking at the specific seating requirement of the passengers, Southwest Airlines has been introducing assigned seating for travel from 27 January 2026 and beyond. For that, passengers can start Southwest Airlines seat selection from 29 July 2025, which is about seven months in advance.
Southwest Airlines want that passenger should choose the experience they prefer. It includes extra legroom seat at favourable location along with other choices. The airline may or may not charge a fee for it depending on its policies. So, If you want to learn more about all the latest options on Southwest Airlines, then below information is for you.
What are different seating option on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines understands that every passenger is different and so its need. Accordingly, the airlines offers the passengers following different options:
Extra Legroom seat
- This option offers additional leg space to stretch.
- Passenger can find the option at front of the cabin or
- Close to exit rows,
- It offers more space such as five inches more than standard and preferred seats.
- Early access to overhead bin storage.
- Premium snacks and
- Free premium beverages
Preferred seat
It is a standard legroom seat which often found close to front of the cabin.
Standard seat
These are the most basic seat on Southwest Airlines aircraft. It offers standard legspace. Passengers usually find it in the back of cabin.
Note: Southwest Airlines 737-700 aircraft offers additional seat pitch of five inches than other aircrafts. The seat pitch may differ with type of aircraft.
How to Select a Seat on Southwest?
Currently, you do not have seat selection option Southwest. However, if you will travel after 27 January 2026, then you can use the assigned seating option on Southwest Airlines using below steps:
Southwest Airlines website
- Visit Southwest Airlines official page.
- Go to “Manage my Trips” section.
- Enter login details like booking reference and last name.
- Choose the flight for which you need seat selection.
- A seat map will open on the screen.
- Choose from the available seats.
- Enter the payment details and finish the booking process.
- Lastly, get the confirmation on email registered with Southwest Airlines.
Southwest Airlines customer service also helps you with seat selection process. You only have to share your requirement. Further, the agent will share its requirements with you. Therefore, you can choose a seat from the available options and make the payment. Lastly, the representative will share your booking details on authorized email Id.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines offers various seating choices to passengers. Therefore, they can go through them on the seat map and choose one that suits their need. Southwest Airlines may or may not charge a seat selection fee depending on the seat type, flight type and fare condition. Further, passengers can use the above process to select a seat on Southwest Airlines. Alternatively, they can call on 1-802-231-1806 to get help regarding selecting a seat.
