Southwest Airlines is shaking things up in a big way. We’re watching them move away from the structure travelers have known for years. Assigned seating is finally arriving. Extra legroom options are being added. Checked bags? Those will no longer fly free. It’s all part of a full overhaul that’s rolling out with a fresh lineup of fare classes.
The airline is replacing the old “Wanna Get Away” system with two new options: “Basic” and “Choice.” Along with those changes, they’re adjusting the benefits that come with A-List elite status and Rapid Rewards credit cards. That includes who gets early access to seats and what kind of seating perks travelers can expect.
What You Get With Elite Status or a Southwest Credit Card
Starting in Q3 of 2025, assigned seats will go live for flights beginning in 2026. Three seat types will be in play: extra legroom near the front, preferred seating in the middle section, and standard seats toward the back.
If you’re an A-List member or carry one of Southwest’s eligible credit cards, here’s what the new seating perks look like:
- A-List Preferred members can choose any available seat when booking, including extra legroom options.
- A-List members can lock in extra legroom seats within 48 hours before takeoff, or book preferred and standard seats right away.
- Holders of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card or Performance Business Card get access to extra legroom seats within 48 hours of departure, and can pick preferred or standard seats when booking.
- With a Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card or Premier Business Card, you’ll be able to select preferred and standard seats starting 48 hours before your flight.
- If you’ve got the Plus Card or standard Premier Business Card, you can grab standard seats within that same 48-hour window.
These seating benefits don’t just apply to you—they extend to up to eight people traveling under the same reservation.
Southwest’s new seat selection rules apply even if you’re flying on a Basic fare, so if you fall into any of these qualifying categories, you still get access to premium seats without added fees. The updates make it easier for loyal travelers and cardholders to lock in better spots without paying more.
What’s Changing with Checked Bag Policies
Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest will no longer offer two free checked bags to all passengers. That benefit is now reserved for travelers with elite status or a co-branded credit card. Here’s how it works under the new policy:
- A-List Preferred members will continue to receive two free checked bags.
- A-List members and all Rapid Rewards credit card holders will get one free checked bag.
- These benefits extend to up to eight travelers on the same booking.
This change to Southwest baggage fees is part of the larger shift toward rewarding frequent travelers and cardholders. While the new system limits free perks for casual flyers, it adds more value for those who fly often or use one of the airline’s credit cards.
If you’re flying with a higher-tier card or elite status, the new policies can actually improve your experience. From extra legroom seats to waived bag fees, the changes are designed to give loyal customers more for their commitment.
