Ever stared at the bustling Southwest Airlines gate, a little one clinging to your leg, and wondered, "How in the world are we going to find seats together on this open-seating airline?" You're not alone! Southwest's unique boarding process can be a bit of a mystery, especially for families. But fear not, because family boarding is a fantastic perk designed to make your journey much smoother.
This comprehensive guide will break down exactly how family boarding works on Southwest Airlines, offering a step-by-step approach to ensure you and your little travelers settle in comfortably. Let's get started, shall we?
Understanding the Southwest Boarding Philosophy
Before we dive into family boarding, it's essential to grasp Southwest's overall boarding concept. Unlike most airlines that assign specific seats, Southwest operates on an open-seating policy. This means you choose your seat once you're on board. Your boarding position – a letter (A, B, or C) and a number (1-60) – dictates when you get to board the plane and, consequently, your pick of seats. The earlier your position, the better your chances of snagging those coveted window, aisle, or multiple seats together.
This system can sometimes feel like a race, but for families, Southwest offers a special advantage: Family Boarding.
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| How Does Family Boarding Work On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility – Is Your Family Ready for Family Boarding?
This is the very first and most crucial step. Before you even think about lining up, you need to ensure your family qualifies for this fantastic benefit.
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The Golden Rule: Family boarding on Southwest Airlines is specifically designed for passengers traveling with a child six years old or younger.
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Who Can Board? Up to two adults traveling with a child six years old or younger may board during Family Boarding. This typically includes parents, guardians, or even grandparents.
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What if I have more children? Southwest generally allows all children traveling with the eligible adults to board during family boarding. While the strict rule is for those 6 and under, most gate agents are accommodating for families with slightly older children traveling together. However, only two adults can accompany the children during this specific boarding time. Other adults in your party will need to board with their assigned boarding group.
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Infants (under 2 years old): If you're traveling with an infant on your lap (not occupying a separate seat), they also qualify you for family boarding. You'll need a Boarding Verification Document (BVD) for your lap infant, which you can obtain at the ticket counter or a self-service kiosk after checking in. Be sure to have proof of age (birth certificate or passport) readily available.
Important Note: If all adults and children in your party already have "A" group boarding passes (e.g., through Business Select fares, A-List status, or EarlyBird Check-In), you should board with your assigned "A" group positions. There's no need to wait for Family Boarding in this scenario, as you'll already have an excellent chance of securing seats together.
Step 2: Check-In and Get Your Boarding Passes
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
While family boarding grants you a special window to board, you still need to check in for your flight.
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24-Hour Window: Southwest opens check-in exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is when your boarding position (A, B, or C, and a number) is assigned.
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How to Check-In: You can check in online via Southwest.com or through the Southwest mobile app. You can also check in at the airport at a self-service kiosk or the ticket counter.
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Don't Stress Over Your Assigned Position (if you have a young child): If you have a child aged six or under, you don't need to frantically check in right at the 24-hour mark to secure a good boarding position. Family boarding allows you to bypass the general boarding order for your assigned B or C group. This is one of the biggest benefits of Southwest's family policy!
Step 3: Head to the Gate and Listen for the Announcement
Once you've checked in and have your boarding passes (digital or printed), make your way to your designated gate.
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Arrive with Time to Spare: While you don't need to be first in line, it's always a good idea to arrive at the gate with ample time before boarding begins. This gives you a chance to use restrooms, grab snacks, and get settled.
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Observe the Boarding Process: Southwest's boarding process typically follows this order:
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Pre-Boarding: For passengers with disabilities or those who require special assistance.
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A Group: Passengers with A1-A60 boarding positions.
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Family Boarding! This is your window.
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B Group: Passengers with B1-B60 boarding positions.
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C Group: Passengers with C1-C60 boarding positions.
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Listen for the Announcement: A gate agent will make a clear announcement for "Family Boarding." They will typically call for passengers traveling with children aged six or younger. This usually happens right after the "A" group has finished boarding and before the "B" group begins.
Step 4: Line Up and Board with Confidence
When you hear the Family Boarding announcement, it's your cue to line up!
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Designated Area: Look for the designated Family Boarding area near the gate or simply approach the gate agent.
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Present Your Passes: Have your boarding passes and your child's proof of age (if requested by the gate agent, though it's rarely asked unless there's a question about age) ready.
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Proceed to the Aircraft: Walk down the jet bridge and onto the plane. This is where you get to pick your seats!
Step 5: Secure Your Seats Together
This is the moment you've been waiting for! Southwest's open seating means you're now free to choose any available seats.
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Look for Blocks of Seats: As you enter the aircraft, scan for empty rows or sections where you can comfortably seat your family together. Since you're boarding earlier, you'll have a much wider selection than if you were in the B or C group.
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Communicate with Your Family: Quickly decide on your preferred seating arrangement.
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Utilize Overhead Bins: Stow your carry-on luggage in the overhead bins near your chosen seats. Remember, you'll have earlier access to these bins, which is another great benefit.
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Don't Be Afraid to Ask: If you're having trouble finding seats together, don't hesitate to politely ask a flight attendant for assistance. They are usually very helpful in ensuring families are seated with their children.
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
Key Benefits of Southwest Family Boarding
Let's recap why Southwest's family boarding policy is such a game-changer for parents:
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Guaranteed Seating Together: This is arguably the biggest advantage. With family boarding, you significantly increase your chances of finding multiple seats together, eliminating the stress of potentially being separated from your young child.
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Reduced Boarding Stress: No need to anxiously check in exactly 24 hours in advance to get a good boarding position. Family boarding offers a dedicated window.
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Earlier Access to Overhead Bins: Boarding earlier means more space for your carry-on bags and personal items. This is especially helpful when traveling with extra gear for kids.
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More Time to Settle In: You'll have more time to get your children settled, buckle them in, and prepare for takeoff without feeling rushed by a throng of other passengers.
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Peace of Mind: Knowing you'll be able to sit with your little ones makes the entire travel experience much more relaxed and enjoyable.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Southwest family boarding, with quick answers:
How to confirm if my child is eligible for family boarding?
Your child must be six years old or younger to qualify for Southwest's family boarding.
How to ensure my entire family sits together with family boarding?
Family boarding allows up to two adults with a child six or younger to board early, significantly increasing your chances of finding multiple seats together. Once on board, look for open rows or groups of seats.
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How to get a Boarding Verification Document (BVD) for a lap infant?
You can obtain a BVD for your lap infant at the Southwest ticket counter or a self-service kiosk at the airport after checking in, by providing proof of the infant's age.
How to utilize family boarding if I have EarlyBird Check-In or A-List status?
If all members of your family have "A" group boarding passes (due to EarlyBird Check-In, Business Select, or A-List status), you should board with your assigned "A" group positions as they are even earlier than family boarding. Family boarding is for those with B or C group passes who qualify.
How to handle family boarding if my travel party includes more than two adults?
Only up to two adults can accompany the eligible child during family boarding. Any additional adults in your party will need to board with their assigned boarding group.
How to prepare for potential age verification for my child during family boarding?
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
While rare, always carry proof of your child's age (birth certificate or passport) in case a gate agent requests it.
How to know exactly when family boarding will be called at the gate?
Family boarding is called after the A group has finished boarding and before the B group begins. Listen for the gate agent's announcement.
How to find seats if the plane seems full even with family boarding?
While family boarding provides a significant advantage, flights can still be crowded. Look for empty rows towards the back of the plane, or politely ask a flight attendant for assistance in finding seats together.
How to use family boarding for a child between 7 and 13 years old?
Southwest's family boarding policy is specifically for children aged six and under. For children aged 7-13, you will board with your assigned boarding group, but gate and flight attendants will do their best to assist in seating you together if you request help.
How to make the boarding process smoother for my children?
Have your boarding passes ready, explain the boarding process to them beforehand, and bring small activities or snacks to keep them entertained while waiting at the gate and during boarding.
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