Southwest Airlines is known for its unique "open seating" policy, a significant departure from the assigned seating model of most other airlines. This means you don't pick a seat when you book your ticket. Instead, your ability to snag your preferred spot on the plane hinges entirely on when you board. Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to master the art of picking a seat on Southwest Airlines!
How Do I Pick a Seat on Southwest Airlines? Your Ultimate Guide!
Hey there, savvy traveler! Ever wondered how some people always seem to nab that coveted window seat or the extra legroom at the front of the plane on Southwest? Well, wonder no more! We're about to unlock the secrets to securing your ideal spot. Ready to become a Southwest seating pro? Let's get started!
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| How Do I Pick A Seat On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Understand the Southwest Seating Philosophy (It's Different!)
First things first, let's reset our expectations. Unlike most airlines where you select your seat during booking, Southwest operates on a first-come, first-served basis for seating once you're on the plane. This means your boarding position is absolutely critical. The earlier you board, the more choices you'll have!
Sub-heading: The Boarding Group System
Southwest assigns passengers to one of three boarding groups: A, B, or C. Within each group, you'll also have a number, ranging from 1 to 60. So, your boarding pass will display something like "A35" or "B12."
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Group A (A1-A60): These are the golden tickets! Passengers in Group A board first, giving them the widest selection of seats.
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Group B (B1-B60): You'll still have decent options in Group B, likely finding aisle or window seats, though perhaps not in the very front.
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Group C (C1-C60): If you're in Group C, prepare for potentially limited choices, often resulting in a middle seat or a spot towards the back of the plane.
Step 2: Mastering the Check-In Time: Your Key to a Better Boarding Position
Since boarding position dictates your seat selection freedom, your check-in time is paramount.
Sub-heading: The 24-Hour Rule
Southwest online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is your prime window to secure the best possible boarding position without paying extra.
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Set a Reminder: Seriously, set an alarm! A few seconds can make a difference, especially on popular routes. Be ready to hit that "Check In" button the moment the 24-hour mark hits.
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Have Your Confirmation Number Handy: You'll need your six-character confirmation number (PNR) and the first and last name of a passenger on the itinerary.
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Use the Southwest App or Website: Both are efficient for checking in. The app can even send you a push notification when it's time, making it even easier.
Pro Tip: If you're traveling with multiple people on the same reservation, checking in together usually means you'll all receive sequential boarding positions within the same group, increasing your chances of sitting together.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
Step 3: Boosting Your Chances: Paid and Elite Options
While checking in exactly at 24 hours is free, Southwest offers several ways to guarantee a better boarding position for those who want extra peace of mind or frequent flyer perks.
Sub-heading: Option A: EarlyBird Check-In (The Convenient Choice)
EarlyBird Check-In is a paid option that automatically checks you in and reserves your boarding position 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. This is 12 hours before general check-in opens, giving you a significant advantage.
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Purchase During Booking or Later: You can add EarlyBird Check-In when you initially book your flight or later, up to 36 hours before departure (subject to availability).
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Cost Varies: The price for EarlyBird Check-In varies depending on the flight's popularity and length, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, each way.
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Benefits: While it doesn't guarantee an "A" boarding position, it significantly improves your chances of getting an early boarding position (often A or early B), leading to a better selection of seats and overhead bin space.
Consider This: EarlyBird Check-In is often a worthwhile investment, especially on busy flights, if you have specific seating preferences (like a window or aisle) or are traveling with companions and want to sit together without the stress of the 24-hour check-in rush.
Sub-heading: Option B: Business Select (The Premium Experience)
Business Select is Southwest's highest fare type and comes with a host of benefits, including a guaranteed boarding position between A1 and A15.
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Book Business Select Fare: This fare is typically the most expensive but offers the ultimate flexibility and priority.
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Guaranteed A1-A15: You'll be among the very first to board, ensuring you have virtually any seat choice on the plane, including the coveted front rows or exit rows (if you meet the requirements).
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Additional Perks: Business Select also includes a fully refundable ticket, bonus Rapid Rewards points, and a complimentary premium drink onboard.
Who is this for? Business travelers, those on a strict schedule, or anyone who values absolute certainty in their boarding position and seat selection.
Sub-heading: Option C: Upgraded Boarding (The Last-Minute Boost)
If you didn't purchase EarlyBird Check-In or Business Select, you might have another opportunity to improve your boarding position. Upgraded Boarding can be purchased at the gate or through the Southwest app within 24 hours of your flight's departure, if available.
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Check Availability: Look for the option to "Upgrade Boarding" in the Southwest app or ask a gate agent.
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Limited Spots: These are typically leftover A1-A15 positions, so availability is limited and first-come, first-served.
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Cost: The price ranges from $30 to $149 per segment, per traveler.
When to use it: If you missed the 24-hour check-in window, got a late boarding position, and absolutely need a good seat.
Sub-heading: Option D: Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred Status (For Frequent Flyers)
If you're a loyal Southwest flyer and have earned A-List or A-List Preferred status through the Rapid Rewards program, you automatically receive priority boarding.
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Automatic Early Boarding: A-List and A-List Preferred members (and everyone on their reservation) will have their boarding positions automatically reserved 36 hours prior to the flight, similar to EarlyBird Check-In, often securing a prime "A" group position.
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Additional Benefits: These elite statuses come with other perks like bonus points, free checked bags, and dedicated phone lines.
The ultimate perk: If you fly Southwest frequently, achieving A-List status is one of the best ways to consistently secure an early boarding position and your preferred seat.
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Step 4: The Boarding Process: How to Execute Your Seating Strategy
Once you have your boarding group and number, it's time to put your strategy into action at the gate.
Sub-heading: Lining Up at the Gate
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Listen for Announcements: Gate agents will call boarding groups in order (Preboarding, A, Family Boarding, B, C).
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Find Your Designated Spot: Southwest gates have numbered poles (e.g., A1-5, A6-10) to help you line up in your assigned position.
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Board When Called: When your group and number are called, proceed down the jet bridge.
Sub-heading: Choosing Your Seat Onboard
This is where the "open seating" truly comes into play! Once you step onto the plane, you can choose any available seat.
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Assess the Cabin Quickly: As you walk down the aisle, quickly scan for open seats that meet your preference.
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Popular Choices:
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Window seats: Great for views and leaning against the wall for sleep.
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Aisle seats: Ideal for easy access to the lavatory or overhead bin, and quicker deplaning.
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Front of the plane: For faster exit upon arrival.
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Exit row seats: Offer extra legroom (must meet specific requirements, usually 15+ years old and able to assist in an emergency).
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Less Popular Choices (But Sometimes Necessary!):
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Middle seats: Often the last to be taken.
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Back of the plane: Can be quieter, and sometimes the last to fill up on fuller flights, offering a chance to find an empty row.
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Key Principle: The faster you make your decision and move to your seat, the better your chances of getting your top pick. Don't dally!
Step 5: Special Circumstances: Family Boarding and Assistance
Southwest has specific policies for families and those needing assistance.
Sub-heading: Family Boarding
If you're traveling with a child six years old or younger, you and up to two adults can board during Family Boarding. This occurs after the "A" group has boarded but before the "B" group begins.
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No Special Check-In Needed: Your boarding pass will still show your assigned A, B, or C group, but you can disregard it for Family Boarding if you qualify.
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Speak to the Gate Agent: If you need assistance finding seats together once on board, speak with a gate agent or flight attendant. Southwest will endeavor to seat a child next to at least one accompanying adult.
Important Note: If your children are older than six, you'll need to rely on your assigned boarding positions or the strategies mentioned above to sit together.
Sub-heading: Passengers Needing Assistance
Passengers with disabilities who need extra time or assistance boarding, or who have specific seating needs to accommodate their disability, can preboard before Group A.
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Request Preboarding: Speak to a Southwest Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate to request preboarding.
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Fact-Finding Questions: Southwest employees will ask questions to determine if you qualify for preboarding.
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One Companion: If approved, you'll typically receive a preboarding designation and can board with one companion.
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about picking a seat on Southwest:
How to get a window or aisle seat on Southwest?
To get a window or aisle seat, your best bet is to secure an early boarding position (A group) by checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or flying Business Select/having A-List status.
How to sit with my family on Southwest?
For families with children aged six or younger, utilize Family Boarding (after Group A, before Group B). For older children or mixed groups, aim for early boarding positions for everyone on the reservation by checking in precisely at the 24-hour mark or purchasing EarlyBird Check-In for all passengers.
How to get an exit row seat on Southwest?
To get an exit row seat, you need to board early (Group A is ideal) and meet the FAA requirements (typically 15 years or older, able to assist in an emergency, etc.). These seats offer extra legroom and are popular.
How to get a good boarding position on Southwest?
Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchase EarlyBird Check-In, buy a Business Select fare, or achieve Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred status.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
How to use EarlyBird Check-In for better seating?
Purchase EarlyBird Check-In during booking or up to 36 hours before departure. Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours out, giving you an earlier boarding position than general check-in.
How to get the best seat if I'm in Group C on Southwest?
If you're in Group C, your options will be limited. Head towards the back of the plane, as seats there sometimes fill up last, and you might find a vacant aisle or window seat, or even an empty row if you're lucky.
How to know where to line up at the Southwest gate?
Look for the numbered poles at the gate area. Your boarding pass will display your group (A, B, or C) and your number (1-60). Stand between the corresponding posts.
How to change my seat on Southwest after boarding?
Once you've picked a seat and the plane is boarding, you cannot change your seat unless instructed by a flight attendant (e.g., for weight distribution purposes or if an exit row seat needs to be filled).
How to ensure my carry-on has overhead bin space on Southwest?
An earlier boarding position means earlier access to overhead bins. Passengers in Group A will have the best selection of bin space. If you're in Groups B or C, consider boarding with a smaller personal item that fits under the seat in front of you if overhead space is a concern.
How to preboard on Southwest for disability accommodations?
Speak to a Southwest Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate. They will assess your needs and, if you qualify, issue you a preboarding pass, allowing you to board before Group A with one companion.
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