Southwest Airlines has announced it will restore access to cabin jump seats for all eligible employees later this year, reversing a policy change implemented in April that restricted usage to pilots and flight attendants. The airline, based at Dallas Love Field, confirmed the decision amid ongoing concerns from its flight attendants union about safety risks associated with broader employee access.

The flight attendants’ union, Transport Workers Union Local 556, expressed disappointment with the reinstatement, citing long-standing safety and operational concerns. Sam Wilkins, the union’s first vice president and a Southwest flight attendant of nearly 29 years, explained that the reversal followed grievance filings by multiple unions, including the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association Local 18, which had been preparing for arbitration with the airline.

Jump seats are additional seats located in the aircraft cabin and cockpit, intended primarily for crew members. Their number varies depending on the aircraft model; for example, Southwest’s Boeing 737-700 typically has four jump seats and three flight attendants, leaving one extra seat, while Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft feature four flight attendants and two additional jump seats. Under the airline’s previous policy, all employees could reserve these seats on a first-come, first-served basis for non-revenue travel, a benefit unique to Southwest compared to other U.S. carriers such as American Airlines, which restrict access more narrowly.

Wilkins emphasized that the union’s primary objection lies in allowing employees without crew qualifications to occupy jump seats, which require occupants to be able to assist in emergencies, including evacuations. Although Southwest mandates a training session prior to travel on the jump seat to review emergency procedures and seat operation, the union raised concerns about the adequacy and enforcement of these requirements. Wilkins pointed to issues such as physical suitability for the seat, proper attire, and the inability to verify compliance with regulations prohibiting drug or alcohol use before boarding, all of which pose safety risks.

These concerns come amid heightened attention to aviation safety following recent incidents. In May, a Frontier Airlines flight underwent an emergency evacuation after smoke entered the cabin due to a collision on the runway, while an American Airlines regional flight made an emergency landing in Kansas City following a smoke event. Further, reports of severe turbulence have increased industry-wide, underscoring the importance of properly trained personnel on board.

Southwest stated that safety remains its top priority, assuring that employees wishing to use the cabin jump seat will undergo specific training and be subject to renewed expectations. However, the airline has yet to disclose the details of this training. The union indicated it is working with its safety and health committees to determine next steps and is committed to pursuing a resolution focused on safeguarding flight attendants and crew.

While Southwest holds authority over its policies, TWU Local 556 has signaled its intent to continue dialogue and advocacy to ensure jump seat access aligns with industry safety standards and protects crew responsibilities.