As of July 29, 2025, Southwest Airlines has rebranded and restructured its fare options, making it easier to understand what each fare includes—and what it doesn’t. If you’re booking travel for your team, here’s a detailed look at the new fare structure, how it affects flexibility, seating, and perks, and what to expect for future bookings.
Basic (no name change)
Southwest’s most affordable fare remains the same, with limited flexibility and minimal perks.
- Seat selection not available — seats are assigned at check-in
- Last to board — Basic travelers board after all other groups
- Non-refundable and non-transferable — no credits issued if not canceled at least 10 minutes before departure
- No free same-day changes — any changes require a fare upgrade
- Earns 2x Rapid Rewards® points per dollar spent
Choice (formerly Wanna Get Away Plus)
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want flexibility.
- Standard seat selection available (standard legroom, back of cabin)
- Non-refundable, but eligible for a Transferable Flight Credit if canceled at least 10 minutes before departure
- Includes free same-day change and same-day standby on the day of travel
- Earns 6x Rapid Rewards® points per dollar spent
- Checked bag fees apply to bookings made on or after May 28, 2025
Choice Preferred (formerly Anytime)
A step up for travelers who want flexibility and a smoother airport experience.
- Preferred seating near the front of the cabin (standard legroom)
- Includes EarlyBird Check-In® through January 26, 2026
- Fully refundable when canceled at least 10 minutes before departure
- Free same-day change and standby privileges
- Access to Priority Lanes and Express Lanes where available
- Earns 10x Rapid Rewards® points per dollar spent
- Checked bag fees apply to bookings made on or after May 28, 2025
Choice Extra (formerly Business Select)
Southwest’s most premium offering, designed for comfort and speed.
- Access to extra legroom seats in the front or exit rows, plus standard seat selection
- Premium boarding (A1–A15 or Group 1–2, depending on departure date)
- Includes premium drinks and snacks on flights 251+ miles, starting January 27, 2026
- Fully refundable with no change or cancel fees
- Free same-day change and standby included
- Access to Priority Lanes and Express Lanes at check-in and security
- Earns 14x Rapid Rewards® points per dollar spent
- Two free checked bags still included
What’s changing in 2026
Starting January 27, 2026, Southwest will roll out:
- Assigned seating across all fare types
- A new extra legroom section, free for Choice Extra travelers, with buy-up options for others
Booking notes for AmTrav users
Starting January 27, 2026, Southwest will roll out:
- Fares booked under previous names (e.g., Wanna Get Away, Business Select) for future trips will retain their original rules and benefits
- The new fare names and rules are now live in AmTrav, with clearly labeled options for seat selection, flexibility, and rewards
For more information on how to choose the right fare for your travelers or to streamline your company's Southwest bookings, reach out to your AmTrav Relationship Manager.