Southwest Airlines passengers will have assigned seats for the first time starting Jan. 27. This marks the end of over 50 years of open seating. The change is part of Southwest’s efforts to boost revenue and compete with more profitable rivals. The airline expects to add $800 million to earnings this year and $1.7 billion in 2026. Southwest has also introduced new fare types and will start charging for checked bags. The new boarding process will have eight groups based on seat selection, status, and other factors. Extra-legroom seating is being added to 25% of the fleet. Families can still sit together through existing products.

Read more at CNBC: Southwest Airlines sets a date, plan for the end of open seating