Southwest Airlines has carved out a unique niche in the airline industry, renowned for its "Bags Fly Free" policy and, perhaps most notably, its open seating approach. Unlike most other airlines where you're assigned a specific seat number, Southwest gives you a boarding position, and once on board, you pick any available seat. This system, while different, has a very clear and strategic method for determining who gets on the plane when.
Ready to unravel the mystery of the Southwest boarding process? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understanding the Core Concept: Groups and Positions
Southwest's boarding system revolves around two key elements: Groups and Positions.
Groups: There are three primary boarding groups: A, B, and C. These groups are called to board the aircraft sequentially. Group A boards first, then Group B, and finally Group C.
Positions: Within each group, you are assigned a number from 1 to 60 (or higher, depending on the flight's capacity). This number dictates your specific spot within your assigned group. So, you might be A35, B12, or C48.
The goal for many Southwest travelers is to secure the earliest possible boarding position, ideally in the "A" group, to have the widest selection of seats and overhead bin space. But how exactly do they assign these coveted spots?
Step 2: The Primary Determinant: Check-in Time!
For most Southwest passengers, your boarding position is largely determined by when you check in for your flight.
The 24-Hour Window: Southwest's online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is a crucial window for passengers aiming for a good boarding position. The earlier you check in within this 24-hour period, the better your chances of getting a lower number in Group A or B.
The Race Against the Clock: Many seasoned Southwest flyers set alarms or reminders to check in the moment the 24-hour window opens. This is because boarding positions are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within the general check-in pool.
Step 3: Ways to Influence Your Boarding Position (Beyond Just Being Fast)
While checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight is a primary factor, Southwest offers several avenues to enhance your boarding position. These often come with an associated cost or are benefits of their loyalty program.
Sub-heading: 3.1 Business Select Fares
Business Select is Southwest's highest fare class. Passengers who purchase Business Select tickets are automatically assigned boarding positions within the coveted A1-A15 range. This guarantees you'll be among the very first to board, giving you your pick of any available seat and ample overhead bin space.
Sub-heading: 3.2 EarlyBird Check-In
For a fee (which varies depending on the flight, typically $15-$99), EarlyBird Check-In allows Southwest to automatically check you in 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This means you're checked in before the general 24-hour window opens, significantly increasing your likelihood of receiving an "A" or early "B" boarding position.
Important Note: While EarlyBird Check-In offers a substantial advantage, it doesn't guarantee an A1-A15 position (those are reserved for Business Select and Upgraded Boarding). Your position within the EarlyBird pool is still determined by when you purchased EarlyBird relative to others who also bought it for the same flight.
Sub-heading: 3.3 Upgraded Boarding
If you didn't purchase Business Select or EarlyBird Check-In, you still have a chance to improve your position! Upgraded Boarding can be purchased at the gate or through the Southwest app (if available) starting 24 hours before your flight, or even up to 45 minutes prior to departure. This allows you to upgrade your boarding position to one of the A1-A15 spots, if any are still available, for a fee (typically $30-$80). This is a great option for those who missed the early check-in window but still want a prime spot.
Sub-heading: 3.4 Rapid Rewards A-List and A-List Preferred Status
Southwest's loyal frequent flyers, those who have achieved A-List or A-List Preferred status in their Rapid Rewards program, receive significant boarding benefits:
Automatic Priority Boarding: A-List and A-List Preferred members (and everyone on their reservation) are automatically assigned priority boarding positions, typically within the "A" group. Southwest reserves their boarding positions 36 hours prior to the flight, similar to EarlyBird Check-In, but without the additional fee.
Fly By Lane Access: These elite members also get access to dedicated "Fly By" lanes for quicker check-in and security.
Step 4: Special Boarding Categories
Beyond the general passenger pool, Southwest also has specific boarding procedures for certain groups to ensure a smooth and accessible experience.
Sub-heading: 4.1 Preboarding (Customers with Disabilities)
Preboarding is available for customers with disabilities who:
Need a specific seat to accommodate their disability.
Require assistance boarding the aircraft.
Need to stow an assistive device.
To qualify, you'll need to speak with a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate, who will ask questions to determine eligibility. If approved, you'll receive a new boarding pass marked with "PRBD." One travel companion may preboard with you.
Sub-heading: 4.2 "Extra Time" Boarding
Customers with disabilities who don't qualify for preboarding but simply need a little extra time to board or get seated may board between the "A" and "B" groups, before Family Boarding. A Customer Service Agent can provide a boarding pass marked with "XT" for this purpose.
Sub-heading: 4.3 Family Boarding
Southwest offers Family Boarding for passengers traveling with a child aged six years old or younger. This occurs after the "A" group has boarded and before the "B" group begins boarding. Up to two adults traveling with the child (or children) can board during Family Boarding. This helps families find seats together more easily in the open seating environment.
Important Note: If the adults and child already have "A" boarding passes, they should board in their assigned positions rather than waiting for Family Boarding.
Sub-heading: 4.4 Active-Duty Military Boarding
Southwest proudly supports active-duty U.S. military members. Those with a valid military ID who did not receive an "A" boarding pass are invited to board between the "A" and "B" groups. This is a nice perk for service members.
Step 5: The Gate Experience: Lining Up and Boarding
Once you have your boarding pass with your assigned group and position, the actual boarding process at the gate is quite straightforward:
Listen for Announcements: Gate agents will announce when each group is called to line up.
Locate Your Spot: Southwest gate areas feature numbered poles or signs (typically 1-30 and 31-60) that correspond to boarding positions. Find your designated spot in line.
Board in Order: When your group is called, you'll proceed down the jet bridge and onto the aircraft in numerical order within your group.
Choose Your Seat: Once on board, you are free to choose any available seat. Early boarders will naturally have a wider selection of window and aisle seats, especially closer to the front of the plane. Late boarders might find themselves in middle seats, often towards the rear.
Step 6: Looking Ahead: Potential Changes (2026 and Beyond)
While the open seating and group boarding system has been a hallmark of Southwest for decades, the airline has indicated that changes are on the horizon, with assigned seating planned for early 2026. This would significantly alter the boarding process to align more with industry standards. However, until then, the current system remains in place, and understanding it is key to a smooth Southwest travel experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Southwest's boarding process:
How to get an "A" boarding pass on Southwest?
You can get an "A" boarding pass by purchasing a Business Select fare, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or by having A-List or A-List Preferred elite status. Checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight as a regular passenger can also land you an early "A" or "B" position.
How to check in for a Southwest flight?
You can check in online at Southwest.com or via the Southwest mobile app starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. You'll need your confirmation number and first and last name.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for Southwest?
EarlyBird Check-In can be purchased at the time of booking your flight or added later, up to 26 hours before your flight's scheduled local departure time, subject to availability, through Southwest.com or the app.
How to upgrade boarding on Southwest at the gate?
You can inquire about "Upgraded Boarding" at the Southwest gate podium or via the Southwest app (if available) within 24 hours of your flight, and sometimes even up to 45 minutes before departure. This allows you to purchase an A1-A15 boarding position if available.
How to board with a family on Southwest?
Families traveling with a child aged six years old or younger can utilize "Family Boarding," which occurs after the "A" group boards and before the "B" group. Up to two adults per child may board.
How to qualify for Preboarding on Southwest?
Preboarding is for customers with disabilities who need a specific seat, assistance boarding, or need to stow an assistive device. Speak with a Customer Service Agent at the airport to determine eligibility and receive a "PRBD" boarding pass.
How to get a better seat on a Southwest flight?
To get a better seat (e.g., window or aisle near the front), aim for an earlier boarding position. This can be achieved through Business Select fares, EarlyBird Check-In, Upgraded Boarding, or by having A-List status and checking in promptly.
How to check if my flight has EarlyBird Check-In availability?
When you go to add EarlyBird Check-In to your reservation online or in the app, it will indicate if it's available for your specific flight. If you don't see the option, it's likely sold out.
How to use A-List priority boarding on Southwest?
If you are an A-List or A-List Preferred member, your boarding position will be automatically reserved for you and those on your reservation 36 hours prior to the flight. You still need to check in within 24 hours to retrieve your boarding pass.
How to determine my boarding position if I miss the 24-hour check-in?
If you miss the 24-hour check-in window, your boarding position will be assigned based on when you do check in relative to others who also checked in late. You'll likely receive a higher number in Group B or C, and seat selection may be limited.
