Southwest Extends Flight Schedule To March 2023, Adds 2 Routes

Southwest Airlines has extended its flight schedule, and you can now book Southwest flights for travel through September 30, 2026.

Here are the details you’ll need to book those summer 2026 flights that you’ve had your eye on.

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Southwest Airlines Releases Schedule Through September 2026

Southwest Airlines has released its flight schedule through September 30, 2026, so it’s time to book that summer getaway you’ve been thinking about for next year. If you’re unsure where to travel, don’t forget that Southwest flies to many vacation spots, including Hawaii and international destinations like Costa Rica and the Caribbean.

Unlike other airlines, which release schedules about 11 months in advance, Southwest releases its schedule in smaller chunks — usually about 8 to 9 months in advance.

Why is this so important, you might ask? Flights tend to increase in price as you get closer to your desired travel dates, so you can often save money by booking flights as soon as they’re released. Since Southwest doesn’t charge change or cancellation fees, there’s no downside to booking early.

If you book your flight with Rapid Rewards points and the price drops, you can change your flight to the lower-priced option and get a points refund. Southwest offers several fare classes, which were recently updated. For instance, if you booked a Basic or Choice fare with cash, you can get a flight credit for the price difference.

If you book a Choice Preferred or Choice Extra ticket, your fare is fully refundable, whether you paid with points or cash.

Hot Tip:

If you’re booking a flight for January 27, 2026, or after, you’ll notice the ability to choose an assigned seat, based on fare class, elite status, and whether or not you have a Southwest credit card.

When Will the Southwest Schedule Be Extended?

Southwest Airlines releases its flight schedule in small chunks throughout the year. Flights are currently available to book through September 30, 2026.

On January 29, 2026, Southwest plans to extend the schedule through October 31, 2026.

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Final Thoughts

Southwest Airlines doesn’t release a flight schedule in the same manner as other airlines; instead, it opts for small chunks of flights released throughout the year.

If you’ve been eyeing a Southwest flight for your summer 2026 getaway, , you can now reserve travel through September 30, 2026, thanks to the airline extending its schedule.