Southwest is upgrading its planes with faster Wi-Fi, bigger overhead bins and new drinks to woo travelers

Southwest Airlines said it will spend more than $2 billion on improved passenger amenities like bigger overhead bins, faster internet and power outlets in an effort to woo travelers as bookings rebound.

The airline plans to double the number of movies it offers travelers and to update its drink options on board to include bloody mary mix, ready-to-drink cocktails, hard seltzer and rose wine.

The changes come as airlines gear up for a recovery in both leisure and business travel after more than two years of the Covid-19 pandemic.

New seatback screens and entertainment systems were some of the cabin improvements that United Airlines made last year. cabins are being prepared for larger overhead bins. Delta Air Lines wants to offer free internet in the future and is installing new seats for domestic first class. Hawaiian Airlines plans to offer free wi-fi through the Starlink service.

Southwest will invest $2 billion over the course of five years and is part of an estimated capital expenditure of $3.5 billion per year on average through 2026. Southwest has recently increased its efforts to sell to business travelers.

Travelers willing to pay more for more flexibility will be able to take advantage of the new second-cheapest fare option. It told staff last week that it will give travelers free wi-fi on some flights as it tests new hardware that will bring higher speeds to more passengers.

The carrier said it has entered into an agreement with Viasat for in-flight internet as early as this fall, with the first deliveries of the new737 Max planes. Southwest offers internet for $8 a day, but doesn't have plans to make it free beyond the hardware test.

Southwest will have in-seat power on about 250 planes by the end of the year, something it currently doesn't offer. The power outlets will be available on Max planes.