For most people on most airlines, when you get on a plane, you have your assigned seat already and know just where you will end up. The only exception has been Southwest Airlines. That exception no longer exists.

After 53 Years, Southwest Airlines Will Ditch Open Seating

The last airline to offer seating on a first come-first served basis was Southwest Airlines. Customers had the option to show up as early as possible for their flight, and get their place in line to get in and choose whichever available seat they wanted.

According to The Washington Post, the reason for the change is that they will now assign seats and unveil “premium seating options” that offer more legroom. In its announcement, Southwest said it expects that about one-third of seats across its fleet will have extra legroom.

This change isn’t expected to take place until 2025, but the the company’s chief executive, Bob Jordan, says that it wants its customers to know that they still will not be charging bag fees like some other airlines do.

Of course, it’s been the topic of conversation after this announcement as this was one of the major things that separated Southwest from all other airlines, making it more of the people’s airline.

Southwest fan Grant Goodman, 24, messaged a reporter on July 25 saying he felt betrayed. The actor described himself as “a dedicated front row, middle seat enthusiast.”

Goodman continued, “I appreciate how passengers could book a flight 48 hours before departure, check in 24 hours in advance and still have a shot at a seat upfront. “It was basically like a democracy.”

But, Southwest claims the changes are for the good of the brand and customers alike.

Evan Paul is the host of Taste of Country Nights, a syndicated radio show heard on more than 130 country radio stations nationwide, every night from 7PM to midnight. He plays the best new country music and interviews today’s top stars, like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Dan + Shay, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Lady A, + more!