I learned that Southwest Airlines is testing the use of assigned seats on its flights. The test will take place on flights outbound from San Diego beginning July 10th.
A lot of Southwest newbies complain about their open seating. Fine. Learn how it works and be prepared next time. Print out your boarding pass before you get to the airport and you’re golden.
I don’t know why Southwest would screw up a good thing. I like the ability to get my pass early and pick my seat as I go. I like not having to sit at the back of the plane, or the middle seat, leaving those for the slackers.
Consequently, if you’re late getting to the gate, it sucks to be you. You don’t get to put that mega roller bag into an overhead bin, nor should you. Don’t delay my flight finding a seat just because you couldn’t be bothered to get to the gate on time.
If Southwest assigns seats, it will become just another airline. That would be a shame.
(h/t, Newmark’s Door)
Update: Post your thoughts directly on Southwest’s Blog.