Southwest Airlines started in 1967 and has grown into one of the biggest low-cost carriers in the United States. The airline is based in Dallas, Texas. It flies to more than 100 destinations across the country and also serves parts of Central America and the Caribbean. Southwest uses a point-to-point route system and focuses on shorter flights, which helps keep costs down and turnarounds fast.
On most Southwest Airlines flights, economy seats are about 17 to 17.8 inches wide between the armrests, with roughly 31 to 33 inches of legroom depending on the aircraft. That puts Southwest close to the U.S. industry average, although larger travelers may still prefer extra-legroom rows or an additional seat for greater comfort.
The airline is known for friendly service and often scores well in passenger surveys. One big change is that Southwest now uses assigned seating with standard, preferred, and extra-legroom options. The switch happened for all flights departing on or after January 27, 2026. Before that date the airline used open seating where passengers picked seats when they boarded.
As a result, Southwest has built a loyal group of customers who like the simple pricing and helpful staff. Still, knowing the details on seat width, legroom, and policies helps you pick the most comfortable option for your trip.
Key takeaways
- Southwest Airlines is a popular low-cost carrier known for its friendly service and no-frills approach to air travel.
- Seat width on Southwest Airlines varies by aircraft type, ranging from about 17 inches on Boeing 737-700s to around 17.8 inches on 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft.
- Compared with other major U.S. airlines, Southwest generally offers economy seat widths that are similar to the industry average.
- Tips for choosing the best seat include checking your aircraft type, considering exit rows or extra-legroom seats for more space, and avoiding seats near the lavatories if you are sensitive to noise or foot traffic.
- Passenger comfort is influenced by seat width, legroom, and overall seat design, so travelers who need extra space should review Southwest’s seating and Customers of Size policies before flying.
Understanding seat width on Southwest Airlines
Seat width is a key factor for comfort on any flight. On Southwest Airlines, economy seats are typically about 17 to 17.8 inches wide between the armrests. The exact width depends on the plane: around 17 inches on the Boeing 737-700 and closer to 17.8 inches on the 737-800 and 737 MAX 8. These numbers match what many other domestic airlines offer.
Seat pitch is the space from one seat to the same spot on the seat in front. It is usually 31 inches for standard seats and up to 35 or 36 inches in extra-legroom rows. Together, width and pitch decide how much room you actually feel.
The seats work for most people on short flights, but some travelers find the width snug. Southwest mostly flies Boeing 737 planes, which are built for quick trips and high capacity.
Most cabins have a single aisle with three seats on each side. That 3-3 layout lets the airline carry more passengers but can feel close when the plane is full.
Comparison of seat width with other airlines
Seat width varies across airlines and can affect how comfortable you feel. Most big carriers like American, Delta, and United offer economy seats between 17 and 18 inches wide, depending on the plane.
Some airlines give slightly wider seats on Airbus models. Ultra-low-cost carriers often match Southwest’s width but cut legroom to add more rows. The differences are small on paper, yet they matter on longer flights if you need extra space.
Southwest’s seat width fits right in the middle of the low-cost group. It does not feel especially roomy compared with some full-service carriers that use wider cabins on certain planes. Knowing these numbers helps you decide which airline matches your comfort needs.
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Tips for choosing the best seat on Southwest Airlines
| Factors to Consider | Details |
|---|---|
| Early Bird Check-In | Consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In or upgraded boarding to improve your boarding position. |
| Boarding Group | Check your boarding group and position to understand when you can board the plane. |
| Seat Size | Consider the width and comfort of the seat, especially for longer flights or if you need more personal space. |
| Seat Location | Choose a seat location that suits your preferences, such as window, aisle, or seats over the wing for a smoother ride. |
| Legroom | Consider the amount of legroom available in different seat options, including exit rows and extra-legroom sections where offered. |
Selecting the best seat on Southwest Airlines can make your trip much better. With assigned seating now in effect, you pick or receive a specific seat when you book or check in. Your fare and any paid seat options decide what you can choose. Booking early and checking in right away raises your odds of getting extra-legroom or preferred seats.
Passengers who get earlier boarding groups still have an advantage for quicker access to overhead bins and a smoother start to the flight. Seats near the front often feel quieter and give a steadier ride. Exit-row seats add legroom but can have more foot traffic and noise from the galley or lavatories. Think about these trade-offs when you select your seat.
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Passenger comfort and seat width
Passenger comfort matters a lot in air travel, and seat width plays a big part. Southwest offers seats that are roughly 17 to 17.8 inches wide. Some people find this size fine for short trips. Others feel it is tight, especially on longer flights.
Cushioning, seat pitch, and recline also affect how the seat feels. Southwest’s seats give basic support that works well for shorter routes. They are not as plush as premium seats on other airlines.
Newer planes have refreshed cabins with updated seats, power outlets, and better lighting. These changes help comfort even though the main dimensions stay the same.
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Potential issues with seat width on Southwest Airlines
Southwest’s seat width can create challenges for some passengers. Larger travelers or people with mobility issues may find 17 to 17.8 inches too narrow. The problem feels worse on long flights when you stay seated for hours.
Before assigned seating, the boarding rush sometimes left people with less-than-ideal spots. Now that seats are assigned, that pressure is gone. Anyone who needs extra room for medical reasons should contact the airline early to discuss options.
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Southwest Airlines’ policies on seat width and extra space
Southwest Airlines has seating policies that try to help every passenger while keeping flights on schedule. The airline asks travelers who need more space because of size or a medical condition to reach out to customer service before the trip.
Southwest’s Customers of Size policy lets eligible passengers buy a second seat for extra room. The extra seat may be refunded after travel if the flight is not full and other conditions are met. Full details are provided in
Southwest’s official extra seat policy, and travelers who think they may need more than one seat should review this information before booking.
Southwest also works to make its planes accessible for passengers with disabilities. Features include special seating areas, help with boarding and deplaning, and accessible lavatories on many aircraft. The goal is a better experience for everyone.
With assigned seating now standard, the airline offers clearly labeled standard, preferred, and extra-legroom seats. You can review the latest details on the airline’s assigned seating and seat types on
Southwest’s assigned seating updates page.
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Conclusion and final thoughts
Understanding seat width on Southwest Airlines helps you plan a more comfortable trip. Economy seats range from about 17 to 17.8 inches wide. Compare that measurement with your own needs and body type when you book.
Picking the right seat takes a little planning. Think about boarding position or seat-selection rules, plus your personal comfort level and any issues with width or legroom. Southwest gives good value and a straightforward experience, but you still need to match the seats to what you want.
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FAQs
What is the width of the seats on Southwest Airlines?
Most Southwest economy seats are about 17 to 17.8 inches wide between the armrests, depending on the aircraft model. Boeing 737-700s are closer to 17 inches, while 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft offer seats closer to 17.8 inches.
Are Southwest Airlines seats comfortable for larger passengers?
Southwest’s seats are roughly average width for U.S. airlines, so some plus-size travelers may find them snug on longer flights. If you are concerned about comfort, review the Customers of Size policy and consider booking an extra seat or choosing an aisle for a bit more shoulder room.
Does Southwest Airlines offer any seating options for passengers who require extra space?
Yes. Southwest’s Customers of Size policy lets eligible passengers book a second seat to have more room. The extra seat may be refunded after travel if the flight is not full. Extra-legroom rows and assigned Extra Legroom seats can also provide more personal space, though seat width remains the same.
Can passengers request a seat with more width on Southwest Airlines?
No, standard economy seats on Southwest are all roughly the same width, and there is no regular wider seat. To gain extra personal space, you can purchase a second seat under the Customers of Size policy or choose exit and extra-legroom rows where available.
Are there specific Southwest aircraft that offer slightly wider seats?
Yes. Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft have slightly wider seats, around 17.8 inches, compared with about 17 inches on the smaller 737-700. You can usually see the aircraft type during booking or in your reservation details.