how many boarding groups southwest

Southwest Airlines is transitioning from its traditional open seating boarding process with three lettered groups (A, B, and C) to a new boarding system with eight distinct boarding groups starting January 27, 2026. This new process will feature assigned seating and a more structured boarding order based on fare type, elite status, and other benefits. Currently, there are 3 boarding groups (A, B, and C), each with about 60 positions, but Southwest will switch to having 8 boarding groups to replace this system entirely. The eight groups will be organized by fare class and customer status, with priority boarding available for elite members and certain credit cardholders. This new system replaces the old cattle-call style open seating and aims to streamline boarding while offering options like extra legroom seats and priority boarding purchases 24 hours before departure.