最新报道:Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan announced the end of the carrier's iconic open-seating policy, marking a significant shift in its decades-old business model. The change, set to take effect in 2025, will introduce assigned seating to improve operational efficiency and customer experience. Jordan cited evolving passenger preferences and competitive pressures as key reasons for the move. The airline will maintain other customer-friendly features like free checked bags and no change fees. This decision follows Southwest's recent operational challenges, including the 2022 holiday meltdown that cost the company over $1 billion. Industry analysts view this as Southwest's attempt to modernize while preserving its low-cost carrier identity.