Southwest Airlines is officially transitioning to assigned seating starting January 27, 2026. Travelers will be able to choose their seats during booking beginning in late 2025. The new system will include group-based boarding, with Extra Legroom seats and premium fares getting priority. This marks the end of Southwest’s longtime open seating policy, offering a more structured experience for flyers.

Carnival launched a new spend-based rewards program, brought back Coca-Cola, raised drink and Wi-Fi prices, and opened its private island, Celebration Key. Most “new rules” are long-standing but now more strictly enforced.