- Mar 13, 2024
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Attention travelers! If you're flying in 2026, there are important updates you need to know about flying, particularly concerning Southwest Airlines and broader government regulations.
After covering the travel industry for over seven years, I've observed many changes, but what's on the horizon for one of the U.S.'s most favored airlines is truly noteworthy, especially for those who haven't flown recently.
Here's what's new for Southwest Airlines:
**No More Free Bags**
Starting in 2025, Southwest ended its "Bags Fly Free" policy, and now charges for checked bags on Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares. Some exceptions exist for certain loyalty members, and residents traveling between Hawaiian islands still get two free checked bags. However, these benefits are not applicable on partner flights.
**Assigned Seats**
Come January 27, 2026, Southwest will introduce assigned seating, offering Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom options. Their boarding process will align with the new seating structure, transitioning from the current A/B/C groups to numbered groups from 1 to 8.
**Customer of Size Policy**
Southwest is updating its "Customer of Size" policy too. As of January 27, 2026, customers who need additional space will need to purchase extra seats at booking, with a refund option post-travel upon request, instead of relying on complimentary seating adjustments.
**Government Enforcement**
Additionally, the U.S. government has paused enforcement on some aspects of the Ensuring Safe Accommodations for Air Travelers With Disabilities Using Wheelchairs Act while reviewing potential changes.
Do you have any flights lined up for 2026? We'd love to hear your thoughts on these changes. Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below!
After covering the travel industry for over seven years, I've observed many changes, but what's on the horizon for one of the U.S.'s most favored airlines is truly noteworthy, especially for those who haven't flown recently.
Here's what's new for Southwest Airlines:
**No More Free Bags**
Starting in 2025, Southwest ended its "Bags Fly Free" policy, and now charges for checked bags on Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares. Some exceptions exist for certain loyalty members, and residents traveling between Hawaiian islands still get two free checked bags. However, these benefits are not applicable on partner flights.
**Assigned Seats**
Come January 27, 2026, Southwest will introduce assigned seating, offering Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom options. Their boarding process will align with the new seating structure, transitioning from the current A/B/C groups to numbered groups from 1 to 8.
**Customer of Size Policy**
Southwest is updating its "Customer of Size" policy too. As of January 27, 2026, customers who need additional space will need to purchase extra seats at booking, with a refund option post-travel upon request, instead of relying on complimentary seating adjustments.
**Government Enforcement**
Additionally, the U.S. government has paused enforcement on some aspects of the Ensuring Safe Accommodations for Air Travelers With Disabilities Using Wheelchairs Act while reviewing potential changes.
Do you have any flights lined up for 2026? We'd love to hear your thoughts on these changes. Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below!
