The era of the Southwest “Group C” hunger games is finally coming to an end, but for those dreading the new assigned seating reality, Subway has entered the chat.
As Southwest prepares to trade its 50-year legacy of “sit-anywhere” anarchy for organized rows on Tuesday, January 27, Subway is stepping in to ensure that the people who lose the seating lottery at least get a decent lunch.
Welcome to the ‘Sandwich Seat’
In what might be the cheekiest brand troll of the year, Subway announced they are rewarding travelers “sandwiched” in the middle seat on the first day of the new policy.
The fast-food giant is giving away 737 gift cards worth $20 each, a very cool nod to the Boeing 737 aircraft that make up Southwest’s entire fleet.
“Getting sandwiched in a middle seat… is not something many travelers will love,” said Dave Skena, Chief Marketing Officer at Subway. “On Tuesday, we’re going to turn a bad ‘sandwich’ into a great sandwich… It’s as easy as A-B-C, and the bag is free.”
How to Get Paid for Your Misery
If you find yourself stuck in seat B or E this Tuesday, your claustrophobia is officially a currency. Here is the exact way you can claim your consolation prize:
- The Mission: Snap a selfie of your “Sandwich Seat” experience. (We recommend capturing the exact moment your neighbor takes over both armrests).
- The Portal: Upload your proof at SubwayMiddleSeat.com.
- The Window: This is a one-day-only event, Tuesday, January 27, marking the official end of an “air-a.”
- The Prize: A $20 digital gift card, redeemable for a Footlong or anything else that makes you forget you’re in row 32.
The ‘End of an Air-a’
For decades, the Southwest boarding process was a sport. You either checked in exactly 24 hours early or you accepted your fate in the back of the plane.
While the new policy aims to “modernize” the experience, it also guarantees one thing: someone has to be in the middle.
Subway’s “Sandwich Seat” campaign is a masterclass in trend-jacking. By positioning themselves as the hero of the B-seat, they aren’t just selling subs, they’re buying brand loyalty from the most disgruntled demographic in America: the Group 8 traveler.
The Fine Print: Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. and D.C., age 18+. Since there are only 737 cards available, these will be “first-come, first-served” via the upload portal.
Master the Menu
Before you head to the airport, make sure you know exactly how to build the perfect sub. Check out our main guide for everything you need to know about the ingredients and secrets behind the brand:
👉 The Ultimate Subway Guide: Ingredients, Secrets, & Menu Facts
