Southwest Airlines has announced updates to its in-flight service protocols aimed at reducing the risk of turbulence-related injuries. Effective December 4, 2024, the airline will implement earlier cabin preparations before landing, marking a shift in its operational procedures to enhance passenger and crew safety.
New Safety Procedures
The key change involves initiating cabin preparations for landing at 18,000 feet altitude, instead of the previous standard of 10,000 feet. This adjustment provides additional time for passengers and crew to secure themselves and the cabin before entering airspace prone to unexpected turbulence.
Southwest’s decision follows an industry-wide acknowledgment of the dangers turbulence poses. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), turbulence accounts for the majority of in-flight injuries, particularly to unbuckled passengers and cabin crew.
Industry Context
Turbulence incidents have been on the rise due to climate changes increasing the occurrence of “clear-air turbulence,” which is harder to detect with traditional radar systems. In 2024 alone, the FAA recorded a 17% increase in turbulence-related injuries compared to the previous year.
Southwest joins other carriers in reassessing service timelines and safety protocols to address these challenges. The earlier transition to landing preparations aligns with safety measures already implemented by airlines like Delta and United, which have also adjusted service practices in recent years.
End of Open Seating Policy
In addition to the turbulence-related adjustments, Southwest has confirmed plans to discontinue its “open seating” policy by mid-2025. Under the current system, passengers select seats upon boarding. The upcoming change aims to streamline boarding processes and reduce delays, particularly during high-demand travel periods.
Southwest has stated that details of the new seating assignment system will be shared in early 2025, emphasizing that passenger convenience will remain a priority.
Passenger and Industry Reactions
Safety experts have lauded Southwest’s proactive approach to mitigating turbulence risks, noting that the changes demonstrate the airline’s commitment to passenger and crew well-being. Frequent flyers, however, have expressed mixed reactions, with some voicing concerns about the impact of early cabin preparation on service availability during the descent.
Meanwhile, aviation industry analysts view the discontinuation of open seating as a strategic move to improve operational efficiency and attract business travelers, who often prefer assigned seating for predictability.
Looking Ahead
Southwest Airlines has pledged to monitor the effectiveness of these changes and make further adjustments as needed. The airline continues to work closely with the FAA and other aviation safety organizations to stay ahead of emerging risks in the industry.
Passengers traveling with Southwest in the coming months are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated procedures and ensure compliance with crew instructions during landing preparations.
