4 Game-Changing Airline Updates Announced for 2026

Have any travel plans for 2026? There are some airline changes you’ll want to be aware of! From policy changes to rewards program updates, there are a lot of things you need to know heading into this year.

Flying to our next adventure!

We aren’t putting it lightly when we say that this year has some of the most surprising changes with an airline we’ve ever seen. Changes that are considered controversial amongst passengers, and changes that will take a while to get used to. So, let’s take a look at what to expect!

Southwest Assigned Seats

As of January 27th, Southwest will officially switch to using assigned seating on flights. Fares will include new seat options to choose from: Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom. Each option will differ in costs, similar to other airlines.

Premium Seating on ©Southwest Airlines

With the introduction of assigned seating, the airline will also update its boarding process. The current A, B, and C groups with numbered positions will be transitioned to a new boarding structure using numbered groups ranging from 1 through 8.

Customer of Size Policy

That’s not the only change Southwest will be applying this year. In fact, this is ANOTHER seat change. Along with assigned seating, Southwest is updating its “Customer of Size” policy. The airline used to allow customers to buy a single seat and discuss their seating needs with a gate agent ahead of departure. If it was determined that a second or third seat was needed, the airline would accommodate them with a complimentary additional seat the day of travel.

©Southwest Airlines

However, that policy will officially change on January 27th — the same day as the assigned seating comes into play. Southwest says, “Customers who encroach upon the neighboring seat(s) should proactively purchase the needed number of seats prior to travel to ensure the additional seat is available.”

©Southwest Airlines

They did note that it will refund the extra seat purchase if requested when travel is complete. If the flight is sold out or adjacent seats aren’t available, they will rebook you on an alternate flight.

No More Free Bags

Although it was applied late in 2025, this will be the first full year without Southwest’s “Bags Fly for Free Policy”. The airline is now charging for checked bags on Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares.

Baggage claim at MCO!

That being said, there are some exceptions for baggage:

Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Getaways by Southwest customers will receive two free checked bags.
A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will receive only their first checked bag for free.
Hawaii residents traveling between the islands will continue to receive two free checked bags.

Baggage

American Airlines Rewards Program

Moving over to American Airlines, they made a change very recently on December 17, 2025. Members of American Airlines’ loyalty program will no longer earn miles or travel rewards when booking a Basic Economy ticket.

American Airlines

AAdvantage program members used to earn two miles and loyalty points for each dollar they spent on a regular fare, but that will no longer be the case. The only way to earn miles and points is by purchasing a more expensive ticket.

The agents at Small World Vacations know how to save money on your Disney Vacation! When you book your trip with Small World Vacations, their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings. They also compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation.

For more of the latest travel news, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog!

What You Need To Know About Gas Prices If You’re Driving to Disney World

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Do you have any travel plans this year? Let us know in the comments!