Those looking to score their favorite seat onboard a Southwest Airlines (WN) flight will now be charged even more. From May 15th, the world’s largest low-cost carrier has increased its ‘Upgraded Boarding’ add-on to as much as $80 per flight segment.
Southwest boards their aircraft without assigned seating, meaning those without a seat reservation, looking for the optimal window seat, must line up quickly before the fight is due to board. However, those that pay for upgraded boarding can put themselves in the A1-A15 boarding position, with the best and earliest access to the front of the aircraft, and ensure more space in the overhead lockers.
From $60 to $80
Before the announcement, passengers hoping to ‘upgrade’ their trip could pay up to $60 per segment to ensure the best spot on the aircraft. However, the price does fluctuate depending on flight duration, route, timing, and capacity. With the announcement, Southwest explained:
Going back a decade, European low-cost carriers like Ryanair and easyJet also opted for no assigned seats in a move to simplify the boarding process in favor of speed and efficiency. These practices seem to be a thing of the past, but not for Southwest.
While most airlines charge passengers to check in a bag, Southwest offers two free checked-in bags, reducing boarding times significantly as passengers no longer put their bags in the overhead compartments, but this means fighting for your favorite spot onboard.
