So, you're flying Southwest and wondering about staying connected at 30,000 feet? Great question! It's a common concern for travelers who want to check emails, browse the web, or simply stay entertained during their journey. Let's break down everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines' internet costs and connectivity options.
Understanding Southwest Airlines' In-Flight Internet
Southwest Airlines offers a mix of free entertainment and paid internet access. It's important to differentiate between the two, as many travelers are surprised by what's available without an additional charge.
Free In-Flight Entertainment: Even without paying for internet, Southwest provides a robust entertainment portal. This includes:
Free Live TV: Catch up on select live television channels.
Free On-Demand TV Shows and Movies: A selection of movies and TV series are available to stream directly to your device.
Free Music: Access to iHeartRadio is often included.
Free Messaging: You can use iMessage and WhatsApp for texting (note: these apps must be downloaded and activated before you connect to the Southwest Wi-Fi).
Paid Internet Access: For full web Browse, email access, and social media, you'll need to purchase an internet pass.
Step 1: Are you ready to connect? Prepare Your Device Before Takeoff!
Before your flight even takes off, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth internet experience.
Sub-heading: Download the Southwest App
For Movies and On-Demand TV: While you can access some content through the browser, Southwest recommends downloading their official app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store before your flight for the best experience with movies and on-demand TV shows.
For Messaging: If you plan on using iMessage or WhatsApp for free texting, make sure these applications are already downloaded and activated on your device. You won't be able to download them once you're in the air and connected to their Wi-Fi, as the paid internet often restricts high-bandwidth downloads.
Sub-heading: Charge Your Devices
Southwest is in the process of adding USB-A and USB-C power ports to its newest planes. However, a majority of their aircraft currently do not have power outlets. So, ensure your phone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged to avoid any connectivity interruptions due to a dead battery.
Step 2: Connecting to the Southwest Wi-Fi Network
Once you're onboard a Wi-Fi-enabled aircraft, connecting is straightforward.
Sub-heading: Enable Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi
Turn on Airplane Mode: As soon as you're instructed, switch your device to Airplane Mode. This disables cellular service.
Enable Wi-Fi: While still in Airplane Mode, turn on your device's Wi-Fi.
Select "SouthwestWiFi": From the list of available Wi-Fi networks, choose "SouthwestWiFi".
Sub-heading: Access the In-Flight Entertainment Portal
Automatic Redirect: Often, your browser will automatically redirect you to the Southwest In-Flight Entertainment Portal once you're connected to the "SouthwestWiFi" network.
Manual Access: If it doesn't redirect, simply open your web browser and type
www.Southwestwifi.com
Step 3: Understanding the Cost of Internet Access
This is where many travelers get curious. How much does it actually cost to browse the web?
Sub-heading: The Standard Internet Fee
$8 Per Device, Per Flight: As of the latest information, Southwest Airlines charges a flat fee of $8 per device, per flight for full internet access.
"Takeoff to Landing": This $8 fee grants you internet access from takeoff to landing for that single flight segment.
Sub-heading: The Important Distinction: Per Flight vs. Per Day
Crucially, Southwest changed its policy from a "per day" pass to a "per flight" pass in February 2023. This means if you have a connecting flight, you will need to pay the $8 fee again for your second (or subsequent) flight segment if you wish to have internet access on that leg of your journey. So, a two-segment trip would cost you $16 for continuous internet.
This is a significant change to be aware of, especially for those with layovers.
Sub-heading: What You Can't Do with Southwest Wi-Fi (Even Paid)
Southwest's in-flight internet is designed for general Browse and email, not high-bandwidth activities. The airline prohibits access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites to maintain stable service for all users. This typically includes:
Video Streaming Services: Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, YouTube, etc., are usually blocked.
Video Conferencing: Zoom, Microsoft Teams, FaceTime, etc., are generally not supported.
Don't expect to stream your favorite show or join a video call mid-flight. This is a common point of frustration for some users, so it's best to set your expectations accordingly.
Step 4: How to Potentially Get Free Internet on Southwest
While most passengers pay the $8 fee, there are a couple of ways to get complimentary internet access on Southwest Airlines.
Sub-heading: A-List Preferred Status
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you are a Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member, you receive complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi access.
How to Earn A-List Preferred Status: To achieve this status, you typically need to fly 40 qualifying one-way flights or earn 70,000 tier qualifying points within a calendar year.
Sub-heading: Southwest Performance Business Card
Statement Credit: Holders of the Southwest Performance Business Card can get their in-flight Wi-Fi purchases reimbursed. When you pay for Southwest Wi-Fi with this card, you'll receive a statement credit that covers the $8 charge, up to 365 times per year. This effectively provides unlimited free Wi-Fi for business travelers who use this card.
Step 5: Making Your Purchase
Once you're on the Southwest In-Flight Entertainment Portal:
Select the Internet Option: Look for the option to purchase full internet access.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: You will be guided through the payment process. You'll typically enter your credit card details directly on the portal.
Confirm Your Purchase: Once the payment is processed, you should gain full internet access for the duration of that flight segment.
Step 6: Managing Expectations for In-Flight Internet Performance
It's important to temper your expectations when it comes to in-flight internet. While it's a fantastic amenity, it's not the same as your high-speed home broadband.
Sub-heading: Speed and Reliability
Satellite-Based Connectivity: In-flight Wi-Fi, particularly on older systems, relies on satellite technology. This can lead to slower speeds and occasional interruptions compared to ground-based internet.
Shared Bandwidth: The bandwidth is shared among all connected passengers on the flight. If many people are online, speeds can decrease further.
Newer Aircraft: Southwest is investing in upgrading its Wi-Fi systems and adding newer technology like Viasat, which can offer improved speeds and reliability. However, it will take time for the entire fleet to be equipped.
Sub-heading: Best Uses for In-Flight Internet
Given the limitations, Southwest's paid internet is best for:
Checking Emails: Sending and receiving emails.
Light Web Browse: Visiting news sites, general information websites.
Social Media: Scrolling through feeds, posting updates (without heavy media uploads).
Basic Productivity: Working on cloud-based documents that don't require heavy syncing.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to access Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi on my flight?
To access Southwest Wi-Fi, enable Airplane Mode on your device, then turn on Wi-Fi and select "SouthwestWiFi." Open your browser and go to
How to pay for internet on Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for internet directly through the Southwest In-Flight Entertainment Portal after connecting to the "SouthwestWiFi" network. The cost is $8 per device, per flight.
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
A-List Preferred members receive free Wi-Fi. Additionally, if you have a Southwest Performance Business Card, you can pay for Wi-Fi with the card and receive a statement credit for the charge.
How to know if my Southwest flight has Wi-Fi?
Most Southwest flights are Wi-Fi enabled. Look for Wi-Fi symbols on the aircraft or check the Southwest app or website for information about your specific flight's amenities.
How to stream movies on Southwest Airlines?
You can stream a selection of free movies and TV shows via the Southwest In-Flight Entertainment Portal. Download the Southwest app before your flight for the best experience. Note that paid internet generally does not allow streaming from services like Netflix or Hulu.
How to use iMessage or WhatsApp for free on Southwest?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, and then access the In-Flight Entertainment Portal. iMessage and WhatsApp texting are typically free, but you must have the apps downloaded and activated on your device before connecting.
How to get Wi-Fi for multiple devices on Southwest?
The standard $8 fee is per device, per flight. If you want internet on multiple devices simultaneously, you will need to purchase an $8 pass for each device.
How to get a refund for Southwest in-flight Wi-Fi if it didn't work?
If you experience significant issues with the paid Wi-Fi service, you can contact Southwest Airlines customer service after your flight to inquire about a refund.
How to check if my Southwest ticket includes free Wi-Fi?
Free Wi-Fi is generally included for A-List Preferred members and those with a Business Select fare. For other fare types, you will need to purchase it. Check your Rapid Rewards status or fare details.
How to tell the difference between free entertainment and paid internet on Southwest?
Free entertainment includes live TV, on-demand movies/TV, and iHeartRadio, accessible through the Southwest In-Flight Entertainment Portal. Paid internet is a separate purchase within that portal that allows for general web Browse and email.
