Southwest has chosen Recaro Aircraft Seating for new aircraft deliveries from 2025. This will be the first time that the airline has bought seats from the supplier despite the two companies being headquartered near each other since foundation.

The order ties in with a brand refresh that will see a uniform redesign, a different pattern on the carpet, bigger overhead storage and other cabin enhancements.

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Design agency Tangerine was chosen to give the cabins a new look, and it has chosen deep blue tones, sky blue accents, and a nod to the Southwest heart logo woven throughout the carpet.

The chosen seats are BL3710, a common choice among regional and low-cost airlines. The shipsets will feature adjustable headrests for neck and shoulder support as well as at-seat power and a holder for the passenger’s device, but not a built-in IFE screen.

“Since Recaro was founded in Fort Worth, it’s been a long-term goal to work with our neighbours – Southwest Airlines. From their servant-leadership and people-centric culture to their stance on sustainability and involvement in the community, the similarities we see in our companies’ cultures and values is astounding,” said Sunitha Vegerla, General Manager of Recaro Aircraft Seating Americas. “As we look to the future, this partnership is a great milestone in the significance of sustainability and meeting customer needs in every seat design.”

“Southwest flies above our competition with industry-leading flexibility and our legendary hospitality,” punnedTony Roach, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Southwest Airlines. “Our redesigned cabin interior significantly enhances our inflight Customer experience and will complement the amazing service that our Crews provide.”

Founded in 1971, Southwest Airlines operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and hospitality at 121 airports across 11 countries, and employing nearly 75,000 people.