Southwest Airlines is implementing a significant change to its boarding procedures, moving away from its long-standing open seating policy. The airline will introduce assigned seating and a new boarding method called "WILMA" starting January 27. This marks a major shift for the Texas-based carrier, known for its unique boarding experience for over five decades.
Key Takeaways
- Southwest Airlines will transition to assigned seating on January 27.
- The new boarding method is called "WILMA," prioritizing window, middle, then aisle seats.
- Boarding will begin from the back of the aircraft.
- Gate areas will feature two lines instead of nine numbered stanchions.
- Premium fares and loyal customers will receive earlier boarding groups.
New Assigned Seating and WILMA Method
For the first time in over 50 years, Southwest Airlines will assign seats to passengers. This change comes as part of a larger internal initiative known as "Project USA." The new system has undergone testing in select locations, including Houston and Cancun, Mexico, before its airline-wide rollout.
The core of the new system is the "WILMA" boarding method. This acronym stands for Window, Middle, Aisle. Passengers with window seats will board first, followed by those with middle seats, and then those with aisle seats. This sequence will begin from the back of the aircraft, moving forward in sections. The aim is to streamline the boarding process and reduce congestion in the aisles.
Fast Fact
Southwest Airlines has utilized an open seating policy since its inception, allowing passengers to choose any available seat upon boarding.
Simplified Gate Procedures
The gate experience will also see significant modifications. Southwest is removing its current system of nine numbered stanchions, which often led to confusion and crowding. Instead, gates will feature just two distinct lines.
One line will be for the group currently boarding, while the second line will be for the next group preparing to board. This simplified setup is expected to create a clearer, more organized flow for passengers waiting to enter the aircraft. The reduction in multiple boarding zones aims to reduce pre-boarding chaos.
"Our premium fares and our most loyal customers will have access to better seat types and will board earlier in the process," Southwest's website states, highlighting the benefits for frequent flyers.
Benefits for Premium Passengers and Loyal Customers
The new boarding process will prioritize certain passenger groups. Travelers who hold premium fares, frequent flyers, and credit card holders with specific boarding benefits will automatically receive earlier boarding group assignments. This ensures that the airline's most valued customers continue to enjoy perks like better seat selection.
Additionally, passengers who purchase extra legroom will also be assigned to earlier boarding groups. This allows them to secure their preferred seating more easily. A new "priority boarding" option will also be available for last-minute purchase, with pricing varying by flight demand and route.
Background
Southwest Airlines has long been an outlier in the industry with its open seating model. Most major airlines worldwide utilize assigned seating, which allows passengers to select their seats in advance or be assigned one at check-in.
Impact on Basic Economy and Boarding Passes
While premium passengers will see benefits, those with basic economy fares will typically board last. This tiered boarding approach is common among airlines that offer different fare classes, providing incentives for passengers to choose higher-priced tickets.
To further aid the transition, Southwest is introducing redesigned boarding passes. These new passes will not only display the assigned seat number but will also clearly indicate whether the seat is a window, middle, or aisle. This visual cue helps passengers quickly locate their seat type, aligning with the new WILMA boarding sequence.
Modernizing the Fleet and Customer Experience
This boarding overhaul is part of a broader company initiative to modernize the Southwest brand and enhance the customer experience. Earlier this week, the airline unveiled its first Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft featuring a refreshed interior. This updated cabin includes an extra legroom section, new high-end seats, and contemporary lighting.
These fleet upgrades, combined with the new boarding process, signal Southwest's commitment to offering new perks and amenities to its customers. The airline is working to align its on-board experience with current industry standards while maintaining its unique brand identity.
The changes are expected to go into full effect on January 27, impacting all flights across the airline's network. Passengers are encouraged to check Southwest's website for specific details regarding their upcoming travel.
