Southwest Seating Policy
I know people have been worried about this, but we finally know what the Southwest seating policy should look like. At least for status holders that is. It appears they are holding the details for the rest of us until the spring. In case you don't remember, this is part of a couple of really big changes Southwest announced a few months ago. To go along with their new seating policy, Southwest added red-eye flights for the first time, and is looking to add in premium seating. You heard that right, the premium seating won't just be just in name any longer on Southwest. Who wants to pay $200 more dollars to get the same seat and a $9 beer anyway?
Southwest Seating Arrangement By Status Level
Here is the breakdown of what each status level will get with the new Southwest seating policy (HT VFTW)
A-List perks
- COMING SOON Select up front standard seats at the time of booking.
- COMING SOON The option to choose an extra legroom seat within 48 hours of departure, if available, at no additional cost.
- COMING SOON Same-day change comes with even better seat options5
- Boarding benefit4
- 25% earning bonus on qualifying flights6
- Same-day standby5
- Priority check-in and security lane access7
- Dedicated Member phone line
A-List Preferred perks
- COMING SOON Select all available seats, including extra legroom, if available, at no additional cost.
- COMING SOON Same-day change comes with even better seat options5
- Boarding benefit4
- 100% earning bonus on qualifying flights6
- Same-day standby5
- Priority check-in and security lane access7
- Dedicated Member phone line
- Free inflight internet8
- Up to two premium drinks9
Companion Pass
- COMING SOON Ability to select an available seat for your designated Companion.
- COMING SOON Tier Member seating benefits will extend to both you and your Companion.
- Choose one person to fly with you, free of airline charges (does not include taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way)
- Companion Pass qualifying points can be earned when you use your Rapid Rewards® Credit Card.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards™ Cardmembers will earn one boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each calendar year.
Southwest Seating Policy: ToP Thoughts
It is good to see the Southwest seating policy have the Companion Pass flyer get the same perks as the person who holds the pass. That means that if you have status you should be able to pick a seat for you and your companion at the time of booking. If you have A-List Preferred status that even includes extra legroom seats at the time of booking. It will be interesting to see what perks cardholders get, and how seating will work for non status holders.
It was smart on Southwest's part to release the seating policy for status holders now. This allows them to decide if they want to get back on the status hamster wheel January 1st or not. Let me know what you think of the new Southwest seating policy over in the ToP Facebook Group.
