Pick Your Perfect Space with Southwest Airlines Seat Selection

There is a moment of silence and confusion after you book your Southwest flight. You begin to ask yourself, Will I be able to choose a seat? But what about the situation when I am traveling with children? Things used to feel simpler. However, due to recent changes Southwest Airlines seat selection now operates somewhat differently, making it easy to overlook what is important. This guide answers those minor yet significant questions, therefore you can board knowing well where you will sit and who you will be sitting next to.

Is it possible to choose seats on Southwest

Southwest will switch its open seating policy to assigned seating on most flights as of January 27, 2026. Based on fare type, Rapid Rewards status, or credit card benefits, you may now choose your seat in advance. Seat selection will also provide you with the freedom to choose where to sit, whether it be additional legroom, front-row comfort, or affordable alternatives in the rear.

Tip: Reserve a better seat with your Companion Pass; you and your companion will receive seat selection and tier benefits such as free bags and pre-boarding on flights beginning Jan 27, 2026.

What is Southwest Airlines seat selection

Southwest flight seat selection operates by allowing customers to select seats by the type of fare, status, or card benefits, and will cease its open seating model on January 27, 2026. Reserved seats are now pleasant, adaptable, and simplify boarding.

• Select a seat during flight booking when you book Choice Preferred or Choice Extra fares online.
• Basic fare seats are automatically assigned at check-in unless you have the status or a credit card that allows you to select them early.
• While standard seats are included with every kind of ticket at the back, Choice fares let you buy them ahead of time.
• Choice Preferred or higher fare bundles are available with preferred seats, which are located near the front and have faster exiting.
• Extra Legroom seats have more space and are found in the front and exit rows; included with Choice Extra or as an upgrade. Search the Southwest seating plan at booking time to select the most advantageous seats in terms of legroom, position, and fare.
• Southwest flight seat selection benefits are also tiered by Rapid Rewards tier status or cardmember level. Seat your choice, comfort your choice! Dial +1 (855) 510 4054 and book your favorite seat without any issues.
• A- List Preferred members can select seats on booking or get free upgrades 48 hours before their flight.
• Subject to card type and availability, Rapid Rewards Cardmembers can select seats 48 hours ahead.
• Southwest seat maps at the time of booking let you see and choose the best seat that meets your needs and is comfortable.

Knowledge of Southwest boarding groups and positions

Upon check-in, Southwest Airlines will give you your boarding group, such as A, B, or C, and also your boarding location number. This combination, such as A25, indicates your precise position in the boarding line. Once the airline makes a call to your group, you queue at the marked position at the gate and board in sequence. Open seating, the current Southwest seat assignment system lets you pick an available seat once you are on board, and you Like. Here’s what you ought to be aware of Southwest boarding:

➤ Check-in & boarding group assignment

Check-in assigns you boarding group (A, B, or C) and a number, generally 24 hours before your flight, therefore guiding you to your position in line. eg., your boarding pass indicating B42 puts you in Group B, seat 42.

➤ Waiting at the Gate

There are posts marked 1, 2, 3, and so on, outside the gate, where each passenger is to form a line, according to his or her position on boarding. This assists in maintaining order at the boarding.

➤ Boarding the Plane

Southwest Airline’s boarding classes are designated alphabetically like A, B, and C. Upon the airline calling your group, find your number in line and board. Southwest does not assign seats as many airlines do. Rather, you select any available seat when on board.

➤ Family Boarding

You can board with kids aged six years and below in Family Boarding that occurs after Group A but before Group B. This allows families to be seated together. Southwest attempts to sit children next to an adult without any additional charge.

➤ Special Boarding (Preboarding)

Passengers who require assistance or have disabilities are allowed to preboard before general boarding. An agent helps you to get a preboarding pass and support you. Need offers that will save you money? Contact us today at +1 (855) 510 4054 and get our airline tickets best price.

➤ Upgrading Your Boarding Position

You can upgrade your boarding space by either buying Upgraded Boarding (enabling you to board early in positions A1-A15) or by using EarlyBird Check-In, which will automatically check you in earlier to secure a better boarding position.

Pro Tip: Southwest Rapid Rewards Cardmembers receive free seating and boarding privileges, as well as earlier seat assignment and a free first checked bag, based on their card type.

How and when are you assigned a boarding position

The position you are boarding will instruct you on when to queue up and board the plane. You get it at check-in and therefore know when and where to board so that you have a hassle-free travelling experience.

This is when you will be assigned your boarding group:You are assigned your boarding group and position when you check in to your flight, whether online, through the airline app, or at the airport. This normally occurs a day prior to the departure.

Follow these actions to get and use your boarding position:

• Online or at the airport: The airline designates your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position number (like A35).
• Get your boarding information: Your boarding pass or mobile ticket will have this combination printed.
• Go to gate: Find the numbered posts that show where to line up to board your group.
• Wait for your group: Listen carefully as groups board in order (A first, then B, then C).
• Board sequence: As the gate calls your group, locate your place in line by the boarding number and board the plane.

Which are the best seats on Southwest

Want the best seat on Southwest? Everything depends on your boarding group, comfort, and convenience. Now, with the new Southwest Airlines seat selection, you have the ability to select your seat beforehand, be it more legroom, faster exits, or a hassle-free boarding process. The following are the greatest choices and their significance:

Extra Legroom Seats

– On the front cabin and in exit rows.

– Get as much as five additional inches of legroom than regular seats.

– Comes with earlier boarding (Group 1–2), premium drinks, and better bin access.

– Suits tall people or those who desire a high-end and roomy feel.

– Preferred Seats

– Regular legroom and located towards the front.

– Simpler and quicker get-out after landing.

– Cool when you need to deplane fast, but do not want to spend more money on the room.

– Usually boards in Groups 3–5.

Exit Row Seats

– Often fall under the Extra Legroom category.

– No front seat (in certain models), which is unbeatable in leg stretch.

– Have to be fit to sit here.

– Perfect mix of comfort and quiet.

– Window Seats in the Front Rows

– Hush, and a view and a wall to lean on.

– Ideal when travelling alone or to sleep or work.

– Add Preferred or Extra Legroom rows to the experience.

– Aisle Seats Close to the Front

– Convenient toilets and a quick way out.

– Helpful for frequent flyers and business travelers.

– Select Extra Legroom or Preferred rows to get extra benefits.

– Group 1–2 Boarding Seats

– These run out quickly, particularly for those who buy Choice Extra or are A-List Preferred.

– Ensures good seat choice (front rows and more legroom).

When will Southwest begin with seats

Southwest Airlines will start the process of seat assignment on January 27, 2026. This is a big change to their customary open seating policy. Customers reserving flights post-January release will be given the choice of selecting their seats starting on July 29, 2025. This update will allow Southwest seat assignment by type of fare, status, or card benefits so that you have greater control and comfort when flying. The new seating options are flexible and provide various types of travelers with more freedom to choose: more legroom, faster exits, or sitting with family. Standard or extra legroom seat? We will personalize your trip using our best airline offers.

Tips for Southwest Airlines Seat Selection

Trying to snag the greatest seats on your upcoming Southwest trip? Timing, smart improvements, and awareness of the new amenities being added in 2026—Extra Legroom—are all a part of it. Preferred seating improves boarding priority and comfort.

The following are the best tips to secure Southwest flight seat selection:

1. Reserve a ticket that allows you to reserve your seat in advance

Beginning January 27, 2026, fares such as Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra can allow you to choose a seat when you book a flight. Want that front-row seat? Go for these bundles.

2. Upgrade to Extra Legroom seats

Extra Legroom seats in the front or exit rows are available to provide more space and additional amenities such as premium beverages and early access to a bin. These also get you to Groups 12 to board faster.

3. Be a Rapid Rewards Tier Member

A-List and A-List Preferred members are able to reserve their seats sooner, even upgrade to Extra Legroom seats at no additional cost within 48 hours. It pays to be loyal.

4. Pay with a Rapid Rewards Credit Card

You can unlock Standard or Preferred seating prior to check-in, and in some cases, Extra Legroom upgrades, depending on your card. It is another way to enjoy the Southwest choose seat experience before other people.

5. Use EarlyBird Check-In

This option automatically checks you in prior to the 24-hour window. It will enhance your boarding group, which will make it more likely to secure a seat in the front, even with the existing open seating model.

6. Check in no later than 24 hours prior to flight (when flying Basic)

Economy passengers are not able to book seats. This is why you should set an alarm and arrive exactly at the 24-hour mark to secure a better boarding spot.

Fond Tip: Members of the primary southwest rapid rewards credit card will be able to reserve preferred or standard seats at the time of booking or 30 minutes prior to departure (up to 8 passengers).

Conclusion

Now that you know the mechanics of Southwest Airlines seat selection and the best seats to book, how to book, how to earn fare, and what changes to expect in 2026, you now have all the information necessary to make more informed choices when flying with Southwest. It is up to you whether it is comfort, speed, or convenience that counts, but your next seat could be your best. Need help booking? Contact AeroFlyTicket at +1 (855) 510 4054 for expert airline reservations. The right seat is the first step in smarter travel, and you are all set.

FAQs on Southwest Airlines Seat Selection

Do you select your seat with Southwest Airlines?

You can select your Southwest seat, but it depends on the flight’s date and the price you purchase. You can choose between seats on flights leaving on or after January 27, 2026, at the time of booking. Other food choices include Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra. For older flights, Southwest used an open seating policy whereby travelers chose their seats upon boarding.

What is the new Southwest Airlines seating policy

Southwest Airlines is introducing a new policy on large-seat passengers, who will be required to proactively buy an extra seat in case they are infringing on an adjacent seat, beginning January 27, 2026. This has come along with the implementation of assigned seating in Southwest flights. Customers will have to purchase the extra seat ahead of time or risk being reassigned, and no longer guaranteed a refund on the extra seat.

What to do to ensure that you have a seat together on Southwest Airlines

To maximize your Southwest seat assignment, you should: book together on a single ticket, EarlyBird Check-In, Business Select fares, or A1-A15 at the airport. Family boarding can also be used by families with young children, and this takes place after the A group.

With early check-in, will a seat on Southwest be better

Early check-in on Southwest does increase your chances of getting a better seat since the airline does not assign seats and the boarding position is founded on the check-in time; therefore, earlier check-ins are given more seat options. EarlyBird Check-In from Southwest lets you check in automatically before the 24-hour window, therefore guaranteeing a better boarding spot. and lets you pick your favorite seat sooner.

Do you have to pay extra for the seats on Southwest Airlines

Yes, Southwest will charge for tickets on flights that depart on or after January 27, 2026, and fresh fare packages including designated seating, but the fare changes depending on the kind of fare and seating location. Though better Choice rates include standard seats with Choice Preferred and Choice Extra providing additional features, basic tickets usually do not include complimentary advance seat assignment. Chosen seats with no additional charge have extra legroom. Customers also have an option of paying to take certain seats in the Basic fare or upgrading their boarding status.