Southwest Adds Extra-Legroom Seats to Half Its Fleet
Southwest Airlines has completed a major cabin upgrade on its Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft, installing extra-legroom seats to enhance comfort on longer flights such as routes to Hawaii. As of this month, approximately 47% of Southwest’s fleet now features the new seating configuration, which includes five rows of extra-legroom seats at the front of the cabin and three rows near the mid-cabin exits.
The airline’s upgraded Boeing 737-8 aircraft now feature 175 seats, including five “Extra Legroom” rows at the front with 34 inches of pitch, compared to 31 inches in standard rows—one inch less than before to create the premium space. These seats also come with USB-A and USB-C ports, adjustable headrests, and built-in mobile device holders, while light blue seatbacks make the extra-legroom rows easy to identify.
The retrofit is part of Southwest’s broader modernization program aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. Alongside the roomier seating, the updated aircraft offer in-seat power outlets, larger overhead bins for carry-on luggage, and refreshed interior designs. These upgrades mark a significant shift for the airline, which has traditionally operated a single-class cabin with open seating and no dedicated extra-legroom option.
The enhanced seating was introduced to meet rising demand from travelers seeking more comfort on longer domestic and near-international routes. Southwest says the improvements are already proving popular with passengers flying to destinations like Hawaii, the Caribbean, and cross-country U.S. cities.
The airline plans to continue rolling out the upgrades across its fleet through early 2026. Once complete, every 737-8 Max and other eligible aircraft will feature the new layout. By offering extra-legroom seating along with its famously low fares and no-change-fee policy, Southwest hopes to attract both loyal customers and new travelers looking for a more comfortable budget-friendly option. The move also helps Southwest compete with rivals offering premium economy and other enhanced seating options.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com