Southwest said the seating policy change will offer customers more options and control over their travel experience. The new boarding process will include several groups. Top-tier loyalty members and those with premium seats will board first, while passengers traveling on a "basic" fare will board last.

A Southwest Airlines flight on Friday was forced to swiftly descend over Hollywood Burbank Airport to avert a "midair collision," according to passengers and the airline.

Passengers aboard a Southwest Airline jet that took a dramatic plunge to avoid an oncoming aircraft were told by the pilot that they nearly struck another plane before landing safely in Las Vegas.