
Southwest Airlines is considering significant changes to its core service model, including possibly ending its unique open seating policy and introducing assigned seating for the first time. The airline is also exploring changes to its popular two-free-checked-bags policy and evaluating new fare structures in a bid to boost revenue and stay competitive. These potential shifts mark a dramatic departure from the simplicity-focused brand identity Southwest has long been known for, sparking mixed reactions from loyal customers. The decisions will depend on further testing and customer feedback throughout 2025.