Holiday travel is breaking records, with the TSA screening nearly 3.1 million passengers on Dec. 1, the busiest day in its history. Meanwhile, airlines are rolling out significant changes.

Starting 4, Southwest Airlines is making a small yet noticeable adjustment to its inflight experience. Cabin preparations for landing will start at 18,000 feet instead of the prior 10,000 feet. That’ll correlate with a 10-minute sooner request to raise tray tables,

Southwest Airlines will start landing procedures at a higher altitude, requiring travelers to fasten their seatbelts and put away laptops and tray tables earlier in the flight.

Southwest is gearing up for a really big 2025, including its first redeye flights and the start of assigned seats.

The carrier — the largest by passenger traffic at San Antonio International Airport and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport — is ending cabin service earlier on all flights, requiring passengers to do the usual pre-landing procedures such as ensuring seatbelts are fastened and returning their seats to an upright position earlier in the flight.

In cases that toe the line, the flight crew will also opt not to do full cart service but instead do one round down the aisle with a tray offering simple drinks like water and juice.  Don’t miss this amazing Black Friday Move!

Southwest Airlines (LUV) is making another change in a year when so many have already come. USA Today reports that the carrier recently made a policy shift that will end cabin service and prepare passengers for landing earlier in flights.

A big change is coming to Southwest Airlines' snack and drink service this week. The airline says it is ending cabin service earlier on flights, requiring passengers to do the usual pre-landing procedures such as ensuring their seatbelts are fastened and returning their seats to an upright position earlier than before.