Fall has only just arrived, but Southwest Airlines is already thinking about next year's summer travel plans. The carrier just announced a sweeping network expansion for summer 2026, adding new routes across the U.S., Mexico and even Alaska, all while ramping up service on some of its most in-demand connections.
Starting June 4, 2026, Southwest will launch a new Boston–San Diego route, giving East Coasters nonstop service to SoCal sunshine. The same day, the airline will introduce its first-ever Las Vegas to Cancún route, the only nonstop flight between the two entertainment capitals. New flights from Vegas to Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta are also on tap, expanding Southwest’s Mexican footprint just in time for summer getaways.
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Southwest says it will launch Austin–Cincinnati service soon (details to come) and boost frequencies on dozens of existing routes, including more from Las Vegas, Orlando and Austin. In California, expect more options from LAX to Sacramento, San Francisco and San Jose, giving travelers more flexibility up and down the West Coast.
In perhaps the boldest move of all, Southwest will launch its first-ever flights to Alaska. Starting May 15, 2026, the airline will connect Anchorage with Denver and Las Vegas through daily seasonal service. It’s a milestone moment for the carrier, which has long stayed within the lower 48.
This expansion continues a growth streak that’s taken Southwest beyond its traditional borders. Last year, it ventured across the Atlantic through a partnership with Icelandair, opening new routes to Europe. Next spring, it will launch flights to Sint Maarten from Orlando and Baltimore, deepening its presence in the Caribbean.
But these network wins come amid big internal changes. In January 2026, Southwest will roll out assigned seating, ending its signature open boarding system. The airline also plans to retire its long-standing free checked bag policy and revamp fare classes.
Southwest's summer 2026 schedule shows a carrier ready to compete harder than ever, betting that more destinations (and fewer surprises) will keep passengers loyal, even as some beloved perks are going away.