Southwest is switching to assigned seating

Southwest Airlines is about to change how it handles customer seating by switching to assigned and premium ones, a significant change from the sit-anywhere-you-want setup it’s had for over 50 years. The transformation comes as Southwest reported some turbulence in its earnings, with a 46 percent drop in profits for the second quarter, as reported by WSJ.

In a press release, Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan said the changes will be based on employee and customer feedback. Jordan called offering seats with premium legroom and assignments “transformational” but did not offer a timeline or how it would look. The Airline said it has conducted simulation and live trials that helped it make the decision, and that customer preferences have evolved as they’ve started taking longer flights.

The new model comes as Southwest made other changes, like adding faster Wi-Fi, power outlets, and larger overhead bins, and the airline is working to refresh its cabins and upgrade to more comfortable seats. It’s a series of promising upgrades for the airline — and will hopefully eliminate the mad dash for the best boarding group.