Ready to transform your next Southwest flight into a personal cinema experience? You've come to the right place! Southwest Airlines offers a fantastic inflight entertainment portal with free movies, live TV, and TV series, all accessible right from your own device. Gone are the days of staring at the seatback in front of you – now, your flight can be as entertaining as you make it!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you're ready to kick back, relax, and enjoy your favorite films while soaring through the skies.
Getting Started: Your Pre-Flight Checklist
Before you even step foot on the plane, a little preparation goes a long way to ensure a smooth entertainment experience.
Step 1: Gather Your Essential Devices
First things first, what will you be watching on? Southwest doesn't have seatback screens, so your personal device is key. This could be:
-
Your smartphone (iOS or Android)
-
A tablet (iPad, Android tablet, Kindle Fire, etc.)
-
A laptop
Sub-heading: Power Up!
-
Charge, Charge, Charge! This is perhaps the most crucial pre-flight step. Southwest is in the process of adding USB-A and USB-C power ports to its aircraft, but not all planes are equipped yet. To avoid a mid-movie power outage, ensure your device is fully charged before you leave home. Consider bringing a portable power bank or a fully charged laptop for longer flights.
Step 2: Download the Southwest App (Optional, but Highly Recommended!)
While you can access most free entertainment directly through your browser, having the Southwest Airlines app installed before your flight offers a more seamless experience for certain content, especially some movies and on-demand TV.
Sub-heading: Where to Find It
-
For Apple Devices: Head to the Apple App Store.
-
For Android Devices: Go to the Google Play Store.
-
Search for "Southwest Airlines" and download the official app.
 |
| How Do I Watch Movies On Southwest Airlines |
Onboard Connection: Your Inflight Entertainment Gateway
Now that you're settled in your seat, let's get you connected to the world of inflight entertainment!
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Step 1: Activate Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi
This is standard procedure for any flight.
-
On your device, go to your Settings.
-
Turn on Airplane Mode. This disables cellular service.
-
Immediately after, turn on your Wi-Fi. Airplane mode typically doesn't disable Wi-Fi, allowing you to connect to the onboard network.
Step 2: Connect to the Southwest Wi-Fi Network
Your device will now scan for available Wi-Fi networks.
-
Look for the network named "SouthwestWiFi".
-
Select it to connect. You shouldn't need a password.
Step 3: Access the Inflight Entertainment Portal
Once connected to "SouthwestWiFi," you'll need to open the entertainment portal.
Sub-heading: Two Ways to Access
-
Automatic Redirect: Often, your device will automatically redirect you to the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal (southwestwifi.com) once you're connected.
-
Manual Entry: If it doesn't redirect, simply open your web browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, etc.) and type
www.southwestwifi.com
Enjoying the Show: Navigating the Entertainment Portal
Welcome to your personal inflight entertainment hub!
Step 1: Explore the Free Entertainment Options
Southwest offers a generous selection of free entertainment.
Sub-heading: What You'll Find
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
-
Movies: A rotating selection of new releases and classic favorites. Southwest updates its movie library regularly, so there's usually something new to discover.
-
Live TV: Catch up on news, sports, and your favorite shows with live TV channels like ABC, CBS, CNN, ESPN, FOX, and more. Note: Live TV availability may be limited on international flights due to licensing restrictions.
-
TV Series On Demand: Binge-watch episodes of popular TV series.
-
Music: Access iHeartRadio for free digital music and live streaming radio.
-
Flight Tracker: Keep tabs on your flight's progress, estimated arrival time, and current location.
-
City Guides: Get tips and information about your destination.
Step 2: Consider Paid Internet Access (Optional)
While the entertainment is free, if you want to browse the internet, check emails, or access social media, you can purchase full internet access.
Sub-heading: Cost and Benefits
-
Cost: Internet access is typically $8 per device, per flight. If you have a connecting flight, you'll need to pay the $8 fee for each leg of your journey.
-
Free for Elite Members: If you're an A-List Preferred Member or flying on a Business Select fare, you get complimentary Wi-Fi.
-
Limitations: Be aware that Southwest's Wi-Fi restricts access to high-bandwidth applications like Netflix, HBO Max, YouTube, and other streaming services to ensure a good experience for all passengers. You also cannot use VoIP services like FaceTime or Zoom calls.
Important Tips for a Seamless Experience
-
Headphones are a Must: Southwest does not provide headphones, and they are required for listening to any audio. Don't forget to pack your own!
-
Download Before You Fly: If there's a specific movie or show you absolutely must watch that isn't on Southwest's free list, download it to your device before your flight. This is especially true for services like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, as Southwest's paid Wi-Fi restricts access to these streaming platforms.
-
Be Patient: Inflight Wi-Fi can sometimes be inconsistent due to satellite connectivity. If you experience buffering, try refreshing the page or waiting a moment.
-
Troubleshooting: If you're having trouble connecting, try turning your Wi-Fi off and on again, or restarting your device. If issues persist, a Flight Attendant might be able to offer assistance, though they are primarily focused on safety and service.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a fantastic array of entertainment on your next Southwest Airlines flight!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to watch movies on Southwest Airlines?
You can watch free movies on Southwest Airlines by connecting your personal device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop) to the "SouthwestWiFi" network and accessing the inflight entertainment portal at
How to connect to Southwest Wi-Fi for movies?
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
Turn on Airplane Mode, then turn on Wi-Fi on your device. Select "SouthwestWiFi" from the network list, then open your browser and go to
How to download the Southwest app for inflight entertainment?
You can download the Southwest Airlines app from the Apple App Store for iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices before your flight. While not always strictly necessary, it can enhance your experience for certain content.
How to get free internet on Southwest Airlines?
While movies, live TV, and on-demand TV are free, full internet access costs $8 per device per flight. A-List Preferred members and Business Select fare passengers receive complimentary full internet access.
How to know if my Southwest flight has Wi-Fi?
Most Southwest aircraft are Wi-Fi enabled. You'll typically see signage on board or hear an announcement from the Flight Attendants.
How to charge my device on a Southwest flight?
Southwest is progressively installing USB-A and USB-C power ports on newer aircraft. However, it's highly recommended to fully charge your devices before your flight or bring a portable power bank, as not all planes have charging capabilities yet.
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
How to watch Netflix or Hulu on Southwest Airlines?
You cannot directly stream Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or other high-bandwidth streaming services using Southwest's paid Wi-Fi. It's best to download any desired content to your device before your flight for offline viewing.
How to use iMessage or WhatsApp for free on Southwest?
Southwest offers free messaging via iMessage and WhatsApp. Ensure these apps are downloaded and activated on your device before connecting to SouthwestWiFi, and you can use them without purchasing full internet access.
How to find out what movies are playing on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest updates its movie selection regularly. You can often find a preview of current offerings on the Southwest Airlines website's inflight entertainment section or directly through the inflight entertainment portal once connected.
How to get a refund for Southwest Wi-Fi if it doesn't work?
If you experience issues with paid Wi-Fi and it doesn't work as expected, you can contact Southwest Airlines Customer Service after your flight to inquire about a refund. Many users report success in getting refunds for poor Wi-Fi performance.
 |
