Flying Southwest Airlines is a unique experience, largely due to their signature open seating policy. Unlike most airlines where you're assigned a specific seat, Southwest lets you pick any available spot once you board. This means when you board is crucial for getting your preferred seat and overhead bin space. So, how early does Southwest Airlines actually start boarding? Let's dive into the details!
Unraveling the Southwest Boarding Process: Your Ultimate Guide
Are you ready to master the art of Southwest boarding? It might seem a little different than what you're used to, but with a bit of planning, you can significantly improve your inflight experience. Forget the mad rush; let's get you organized!
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| How Early Does Southwest Airlines Start Boarding |
Step 1: Understand the Southwest Boarding Groups and Positions – Your Boarding Pass is Your Power!
So, you've got your Southwest boarding pass in hand. What do those letters and numbers mean? This is where your journey to a great seat begins!
Southwest uses a "first-come, first-served" system for boarding positions, which are assigned when you check in. Your boarding pass will display a group (A, B, or C) and a position (1-60).
Group A: These are the early birds, typically those who checked in right at the 24-hour mark, purchased Business Select fares, or have A-List/A-List Preferred status.
Group B: The middle group. You'll likely end up here if you check in a few hours after the 24-hour window opens, or if you purchased EarlyBird Check-In.
Group C: The last to board. This group usually gets assigned to those who check in late or right before the flight.
Within each group, you'll have a numerical position (e.g., A1, A30, B15, C45). When your group is called, you'll line up at the gate according to these numbers, guided by the numbered posts.
Step 2: Decoding the "When" – Official Boarding Times
Southwest Airlines typically begins its boarding process approximately 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time of your flight. This is the general guideline for when the gate agent will start calling the first boarding group (Preboarding and then Group A).
It's crucial to be in the gate area well before this 30-minute mark. While boarding officially starts then, the actual process of getting everyone lined up and onto the plane takes time.
Key Times to Remember:
24 hours before departure: This is the most critical window for getting a good boarding position. Online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure.
30 minutes before departure: General boarding typically begins. Be in the gate area and ready to line up!
10 minutes before departure: All passengers must have their boarding passes and be in the gate area available for boarding. If you're not there by this time, you risk losing your seat.
Step 3: Strategies for Early Boarding – Get That Prime Spot!
Since Southwest has open seating, getting an earlier boarding position is key to having your choice of seats and ample overhead bin space. Here's how you can boost your chances:
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Sub-heading: The 24-Hour Check-In Dash
This is the most fundamental and cost-effective way to get a better position. Set an alarm! Exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time, check in online via the Southwest website or mobile app. The faster you check in, the lower your boarding number within your group, and thus, the earlier you board. Even a minute can make a difference on a full flight!
Sub-heading: Investing in EarlyBird Check-In
If you prefer convenience and don't want to be tied to your phone exactly 24 hours out, EarlyBird Check-In is your friend. For a fee (which varies by flight demand and length, typically starting around $15), Southwest will automatically check you in and assign you a boarding position beginning 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled local departure time. While it doesn't guarantee an A boarding position, it significantly increases your chances of getting an A or early B position, putting you ahead of those who rely on the 24-hour manual check-in.
Sub-heading: Business Select Fares – The Top Tier
If you want a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position, consider purchasing a Business Select fare. This is Southwest's highest fare class and comes with several perks, including priority boarding. This option is ideal for business travelers or anyone who absolutely needs to be among the first to board.
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding at the Gate
Sometimes, you can snag an A1-A15 position at the gate (or even within 24 hours of departure via the app/website) by paying for an Upgraded Boarding position. This is subject to availability and the cost varies, but it's a good last-minute option if you find yourself with a later boarding group and want to improve your position.
Sub-heading: A-List and A-List Preferred Status – Frequent Flyer Perks
For loyal Southwest flyers, achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status is a game-changer. These elite members (and everyone on their reservation) automatically receive reserved boarding positions 36 hours prior to the flight, similar to EarlyBird Check-In, but as a complimentary benefit. A-List Preferred members often get even better positions within the A group.
Tip: Break down complex paragraphs step by step.
Step 4: Special Boarding Categories – Beyond A, B, and C
Southwest also has specific categories that board before the general A, B, and C groups, or in between them:
Sub-heading: Preboarding
This is for customers with disabilities who need a specific seat to accommodate their disability, require assistance boarding the aircraft, or need to stow an assistive device. If you believe you qualify, request preboarding from a Southwest customer service agent at the ticket desk or departure gate. They will ask "fact-finding questions" to determine eligibility. If approved, you'll receive a boarding pass with a "PRBD" designation and can preboard with one companion. Note: Preboarding passengers cannot occupy exit row seats.
Sub-heading: Customers Needing Extra Time (XT)
If you don't qualify for preboarding but still need a little extra time to board or be seated (e.g., due to an injury), you can board after the A group but before Family Boarding and the B group. Speak to a Southwest customer service agent at the ticket counter or gate to get a new boarding pass marked with "XT."
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Sub-heading: Family Boarding
This is a fantastic benefit for families! If you are traveling with a child six years old or younger, up to two adults traveling with that child may board during Family Boarding. This occurs after the A group has boarded and before the B group begins boarding. This allows families to find seats together without the pressure of a later boarding position. If your family already holds A boarding passes, you should board with your assigned A position.
Sub-heading: Active-Duty Military in Uniform
Southwest honors active-duty military members by allowing them to board between the A and B groups if they did not receive an A boarding pass. Simply present your valid military I.D.
Step 5: At the Gate – Lining Up and Boarding
Tip: Write down what you learned.
Once your boarding group is called, you'll proceed to the numbered columns at the gate. These columns are marked with ranges (e.g., "A1-A30," "A31-A60"). Find your corresponding position and line up.
Listen carefully: Gate agents will make announcements.
Have your boarding pass ready: Digital or printed.
Be patient: Boarding takes time, and everyone will get on the plane.
Once on board: Find any open seat you like! Remember, Southwest has open seating.
By understanding these steps and strategies, you can significantly improve your Southwest boarding experience and ensure you get the seat and overhead bin space you desire. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to)
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines boarding, with quick answers:
How to get an A boarding pass on Southwest?
To get an A boarding pass, check in online exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure, purchase a Business Select fare, buy EarlyBird Check-In, or have A-List/A-List Preferred status.
How to check in for a Southwest flight?
You can check in for a Southwest flight online at Southwest.com, through the Southwest mobile app, or at an airport kiosk/ticket counter, starting 24 hours before departure.
How to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for Southwest?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In when you book your flight, or add it to an existing reservation on Southwest.com or via the Southwest app up to 36 hours before departure, if available.
How to use family boarding on Southwest?
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
If you're traveling with a child aged six or younger, simply wait for the Family Boarding announcement (after Group A, before Group B) and you and up to one other adult can board together.
How to get preboarding on Southwest?
If you have a disability requiring special seating, assistance boarding, or stowing an assistive device, speak to a Southwest customer service agent at the ticket counter or gate to request preboarding.
How to upgrade your boarding position on Southwest?
You can purchase an "Upgraded Boarding" position (A1-A15) at the gate or through the Southwest app/website within 24 hours of departure, subject to availability.
How to know your Southwest boarding group and position?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60) will be clearly printed on your boarding pass once you have checked in.
How to ensure you sit with your travel companion on Southwest?
The best way to sit with a companion is to get an early boarding position (A group). If you're in the B or C group, consider using Family Boarding if eligible, or ask a fellow passenger to switch seats once onboard.
How to get a good seat on a full Southwest flight?
Your best bet for a good seat on a full flight is to secure an A boarding position through early check-in, EarlyBird, Business Select, or A-List status.
How to check if Southwest boarding has started?
You can usually see the boarding status on the gate area monitors, hear announcements from the gate agent, or check your Southwest mobile app for real-time updates.
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