Southwest Airlines to Offer Assigned Seats, Extra Legroom, and New Red-Eye Flights

Jul 25, 2024, 10:06 AM

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) announced it will begin offering assigned seats, abandoning its long-standing open seating policy. This shift, driven by pressure from activist investor Elliott Management, marks the biggest change in the airline's history. In addition to assigned seating, Southwest will introduce premium seating options with extra legroom and new red-eye flights. These changes aim to broaden the airline's appeal to passengers and boost profits.