Reviewed by: Michael Seale
Will BHM passengers like Southwest’s new assigned seating initiative?
Reading time: 2 minutes
Longtime Southwest Airlines passengers at the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) will no longer need to fight for that window or aisle seat in 2025.
Southwest scraps open-seating
Today, the popular airline announced they are scrapping their 50+-year-old open seating model, replacing it with assigned seats and premium seating options on all flights.
According to the airline’s research 80% of Southwest Customers, and 86% of potential customers, prefer an assigned seat. They also discovered when customers stop flying Southwest open seating is the number one reason for the change.
In addition to assigning seats, passengers seeking more legroom will be given the option to purchase that particular specialty ticket.
Change comes in 2025
How long will it take to implement the changes? Here is Southwest’s statement:
“The move to assigned and premium seating will be significant. In addition to incorporating new technologies and procedures for a seamless transition, the new cabin layout will require approvals from the Federal Aviation Administration. Southwest expects to make bookings available in 2025.”
Local reaction to the changes at Southwest
Local travel agency owner, Jenn Nix shares that Southwest Airlines has made this change strictly as a business decision.
“Some passengers will enjoy not having to check-in at exactly 24 hours before boarding or encounter the dreaded seat savers, others will applaud ensuring their family is seated together. I often travel solo, so seats aren’t often a concern. As long as pricing and service aren’t impacted, airline travelers should transition well.”
Jenn Nix, owner, of Birmingham-based Fork & Leaf Travel, Inc. which caters to lovers of food & nature
Southwest most popular airline in BHM
During the first three months of 2024, Southwest was the most popular airline flying out of BHM. It does not fly out of any other Alabama airport.
Are you an open seating or assigned seat fan? Tell us what you think of the changes on Bham Now’s social media by tagging us at @bhamnow
