Southwest Airlines Seat Maps & Best Seats (2026)
WN / SWA · United States
Browse all 3 Southwest Airlines seat maps across 3 aircraft types. Each seating chart shows cabin class breakdowns, seat counts, and links to detailed layouts so you can pick the best seat on your next Southwest Airlines flight.
Southwest Airlines Fleet & Seat Maps
Southwest Airlines operates 3 aircraft types. Click any aircraft to view the detailed seat map.
Southwest Now Has Assigned Seating
Southwest Airlines switched from open boarding to assigned seating in 2025. Every seat on Southwest is now pre-assigned at booking — just like any other major US carrier. All three Southwest aircraft types (Boeing 737-700, 737-800, and 737 MAX 8) operate all-economy layouts with 143 or 175 seats in a standard 3-3 configuration.
Southwest Airlines Fleet & Seat Counts
| Aircraft | Seats | Layout |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737-700 | 143 | 3-3 |
| Boeing 737-800 | 175 | 3-3 |
| Boeing 737 MAX 8 | 175 | 3-3 |
Best Seats on Southwest Airlines
- Exit rows (rows 15–16 on the 737-800/MAX 8, rows 10–11 on the 737-700) offer extra legroom at no charge — book early before they fill.
- Avoid the last row on any Southwest aircraft — seats do not recline and you're next to the lavatories.
- Rows 1–5 are closest to the front door and allow the quickest deplaning.
- Window seats on the left side (A seats) face away from the sun on most westbound afternoon flights.
- Southwest's 3-3 layout means every aisle seat is equally convenient — no middle-seat-only sections like some international jets.
Southwest Airlines Boarding Process
With assigned seating, Southwest no longer uses its A/B/C boarding group system. Your boarding pass will show a specific row and seat number (e.g., 14A). Board at your scheduled departure time — early boarding is available for premium seats and select loyalty tiers.
Southwest Airlines — Frequently Asked Questions
Does Southwest have assigned seating now?
Yes. Southwest Airlines switched to assigned seating in 2025, ending its famous open boarding policy. Passengers now receive a specific seat assignment at booking, just like Delta, United, and American Airlines.
What aircraft does Southwest fly?
Southwest operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet: the 737-700 (143 seats), 737-800 (175 seats), and 737 MAX 8 (175 seats). All aircraft use a standard 3-3 all-economy layout.
What are the best seats on Southwest Airlines?
The best seats on Southwest are the exit rows: rows 15–16 on the 737-800 and MAX 8, or rows 10–11 on the 737-700. These provide extra legroom at no extra charge. Avoid the last row — seats do not recline.
How many seats does a Southwest plane have?
Southwest's Boeing 737-700 has 143 seats. The Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 each have 175 seats. All are configured in an all-economy 3-3 layout.
Does Southwest have first class or business class?
No. Southwest Airlines is an all-economy carrier — there is no first class, business class, or premium economy on any Southwest aircraft. However, some fare types include additional perks like priority boarding.
Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees 2026
Carry-on, checked bag, and oversized baggage fees for Southwest Airlines.
Updated May 2025: Southwest dramatically changed its famous free bag policy in May 2025. Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and Rapid Rewards Credit Card holders may still receive free checked bags — check your card benefits.
Carry-On Bag
Free
One personal item + one carry-on always free
1st Checked Bag
$35
Changed from free in May 2025
2nd Checked Bag
$45
Changed from free in May 2025
Overweight Fee
$100
50–70 lbs
Oversize Fee
$75
Over 62 linear inches
Want to avoid Southwest Airlines bag fees?
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority, Performance Business, and Premier credit cards include 1–2 free checked bags per flight.
Baggage fees are subject to change. Always verify current fees on the airline's official website before travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft does Southwest Airlines fly?
Southwest Airlines operates 3 aircraft types including 7S7, Boeing 737 MAX 8, Boeing 737-800 Winglets. Each aircraft type may have multiple seat map configurations depending on the route and cabin layout. We have 3 detailed Southwest Airlines seat maps covering every configuration.
How do I pick the best seat on Southwest Airlines?
To find the best seat on Southwest Airlines, use our detailed seat maps to compare cabin layouts across all 3 aircraft types. Look for exit row seats for extra legroom, avoid last-row seats that may not recline, and choose seats away from lavatories and galleys for a quieter flight. You can also search your specific Southwest Airlines flight number to see real-time seat availability.
Does Southwest Airlines charge for seat selection?
Seat selection policies vary by Southwest Airlines fare class and cabin. Some fares include free seat selection at booking, while others may charge a fee for advance seat assignments. Premium cabin passengers and loyalty program members often get complimentary seat selection. Check our Southwest Airlines seat maps to compare seat options before you book.
What cabin classes does Southwest Airlines offer?
Southwest Airlines offers cabin classes across their fleet. The exact seat map configuration varies by aircraft type and route, so check the specific Southwest Airlines seat map for your flight to see the layout.
Find Your Seat on Southwest Airlines
Search your Southwest Airlines flight number to see real-time seat availability and set up alerts for your preferred seats.