WASHINGTON — Southwest Airlines is officially selling assigned seats on flights .

Starting Tuesday, July 29, passengers flying on the airline can select their seats in advance for flights beginning Jan. 27, 2026. Open seating has been a hallmark policy for the Texas-based airline, allowing passengers to choose their own seats as they boarded the plane.

Passengers who do not select their seats will be assigned a seat at check-in, according to the new policy. The airline aims to give passengers more options for their fares, including bundles that offer extra legroom, preferred seating and standard seating. The new policy also lets customers purchase seat upgrades.

"Our Customers want more choice and greater control over their travel experience,” Southwest's Executive Vice President Cust

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