It's fantastic that you're planning to stay connected even while cruising at 30,000 feet! Southwest Airlines offers a great way to do just that. While they offer a lot of free entertainment, getting full internet access requires a small purchase. Let's dive into everything you need to know about buying Wi-Fi on your next Southwest flight.
Staying Connected in the Clouds: Your Guide to Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi
There's nothing quite like the freedom of flight, but sometimes you just need to send that urgent email, scroll through social media, or simply stay in touch with loved ones on the ground. Southwest Airlines understands this, offering in-flight Wi-Fi that can keep you connected throughout your journey. While many airlines are now offering free Wi-Fi, Southwest provides a robust entertainment portal for free, with paid access for full internet connectivity.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of getting online with Southwest Wi-Fi, from preparation to troubleshooting.
Step 1: Get Ready Before You Go! (The Crucial Pre-Flight Prep)
Alright, before you even step foot on the plane, let's make sure your device is ready for take-off. This is where many people miss a crucial step and end up frustrated!
1.1 Download the Southwest App
Why it's important: While you can access the Wi-Fi portal through your browser, having the Southwest app downloaded before your flight is highly recommended, especially if you plan to enjoy their free movies and on-demand TV. Some content specifically requires the app.
Action: Head to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and search for "Southwest Airlines." Download and install it.
1.2 Charge Your Devices
Self-explanatory, but often overlooked! In-flight power outlets are becoming more common, but they are not universally available on all Southwest aircraft. Don't rely on finding one.
Action: Make sure your phone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged before you leave for the airport. Bring a portable power bank if you have one, especially for longer flights.
1.3 Understand What's Free vs. Paid
Southwest offers a fantastic free in-flight entertainment portal. This includes:
Live TV: A selection of live television channels.
Movies & On-Demand TV: A wide variety of films and TV series.
Music: Access to iHeartRadio.
Messaging: Free access to iMessage and WhatsApp.
Flight Tracker: Keep tabs on your flight's progress.
However, full internet access for Browse the web, checking emails outside of specific messaging apps, or accessing other social media platforms costs $8 per device, per flight. If you have a connecting flight, you'll need to pay for Wi-Fi on each segment of your journey.
1.4 Consider Free Wi-Fi Options (If Applicable)
Southwest offers free Wi-Fi to certain passengers:
A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved A-List Preferred status with Southwest's Rapid Rewards program, you get complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card holders: This specific credit card offers 365 $8 Wi-Fi credits annually. You simply purchase the Wi-Fi with this card, and a statement credit will reimburse the charge.
Action: If you fall into one of these categories, know that your Wi-Fi will be free! If not, be prepared to pay the $8 per device, per flight.
Step 2: Connecting to the Southwest Wi-Fi Network Onboard
Once you're settled in your seat and the plane is preparing for departure (or has already taken off), it's time to connect.
2.1 Enable Airplane Mode, Then Wi-Fi
This is a standard procedure on all flights.
Action: Go to your device's Settings. Turn on Airplane Mode. Crucially, after enabling Airplane Mode, then turn your Wi-Fi back on. Your cellular service will be disabled, but Wi-Fi will remain active.
2.2 Select the Southwest Wi-Fi Network
Action: In your Wi-Fi settings, look for available networks. You should see "SouthwestWiFi." Tap on it to connect. There's no password required at this stage.
2.3 Access the Inflight Entertainment Portal
Once connected to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, your device should automatically prompt you to open the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal.
Action:
If prompted: Simply tap "Access the portal" or a similar option that appears.
If not prompted automatically: Open your web browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, etc.) and type
southwestwifi.cominto the address bar. This should redirect you to the portal.
Step 3: Purchasing Wi-Fi Access (for Full Internet)
You're now on the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal! Here's where you decide between free entertainment and paid internet access.
3.1 Navigate to the Internet Purchase Option
On the portal, you'll see options for free live TV, movies, music, and a flight tracker. You'll also see a clear option to purchase internet access.
Action: Look for a button or link that says something like "$8 Wi-Fi" or "Purchase Internet." Click or tap on it.
3.2 Complete the Payment Process
You'll be directed to a secure payment page.
Action:
Enter your payment information (credit card details).
If you're an A-List Preferred member, there might be an option to log in with your Rapid Rewards number to activate your free access.
If you're using the Southwest Performance Business Credit Card, ensure you use that specific card for payment to trigger the reimbursement.
Review the terms and conditions, then confirm your purchase.
3.3 Confirmation and Connectivity
Once your payment is processed, you should receive a confirmation that your internet access is active.
Action: You should now be able to browse the internet freely, check emails, and use other online applications.
Step 4: Troubleshooting Common Southwest Wi-Fi Issues
While Southwest strives to provide a good Wi-Fi experience, connectivity can sometimes be inconsistent on flights. Here are some common issues and how to tackle them:
4.1 Can't Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" Network
Solution:
Ensure Airplane Mode is on and Wi-Fi is then turned on.
Toggle your device's Wi-Fi off and on again.
"Forget" the "SouthwestWiFi" network in your device's Wi-Fi settings and try reconnecting.
Restart your device entirely.
4.2 Portal Won't Load or Internet Access Isn't Working After Purchase
Solution:
Manually type
southwestwifi.cominto your browser's address bar. Sometimes the automatic redirect fails.Try a different browser.
Clear your browser's cache and cookies.
Disable any VPNs you might be using. VPNs are known to interfere with airline Wi-Fi portals and can often be re-enabled after you establish a connection.
If you've paid and it's still not working, take a screenshot of your purchase confirmation if possible. You can request a refund from Southwest customer service after your flight. Many users report Southwest being good about refunding if the service was subpar.
4.3 Slow Speeds or Intermittent Connection
Explanation: In-flight Wi-Fi is satellite-based and shared among all users on the plane. High-bandwidth activities are often blocked or throttled to ensure a basic level of service for everyone. Southwest specifically states they prohibit access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites like Netflix, HBO Max, Zoom, and Teams.
Solution:
Adjust your expectations. In-flight Wi-Fi is generally not as fast as your home internet.
Avoid streaming video (unless it's through Southwest's free entertainment portal).
Close unnecessary apps that might be using background data.
Be patient. Sometimes the connection will improve in a few minutes.
If the service is consistently unusable after purchase, again, consider contacting Southwest customer service for a refund after your flight.
4.4 Free Messaging (iMessage/WhatsApp) Not Working
Solution:
Ensure you downloaded and activated these apps before your flight. They won't work if you're trying to download them while airborne.
Check your app settings to ensure they have permission to use data.
Sometimes, simply closing and reopening the messaging app can resolve the issue.
Important Notes and Tips for Southwest Wi-Fi
Gate-to-Gate Connectivity: Southwest generally offers Wi-Fi from gate to gate, meaning you can start connecting as soon as you board and stay connected until you deplane. However, availability can vary and may not be for the full duration of the flight on international segments.
Per Device, Per Flight: Remember, the $8 fee is for one device on one flight segment. If you want to use Wi-Fi on your phone and laptop, that's $16. If you have a layover and board a new flight, you'll need to purchase it again for that new flight.
No Seatback Screens: Southwest aircraft do not have seatback screens. All entertainment and Wi-Fi access are done through your personal device.
Headphones are a Must: If you plan to enjoy movies, TV, or music, bring your own headphones or earbuds. Southwest does not provide or sell them onboard.
Future Upgrades: Southwest is working on bringing in-seat power (USB-A and USB-C ports) to their aircraft, which will be a welcome addition for heavy device users.
Frequently Asked Questions about Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi
Here are 10 common questions related to buying and using Wi-Fi on Southwest, with quick answers:
How to check if my flight has Wi-Fi?
Most Southwest flights are Wi-Fi enabled. You can usually tell by looking for a Wi-Fi sticker or sign on the aircraft, or by checking the Southwest app's flight details, though this isn't always foolproof. Assume most flights will have it, but be prepared for the rare exception.
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest?
You can get free Wi-Fi if you are a Southwest A-List Preferred member or if you pay for it using your Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card, which offers a statement credit for Wi-Fi purchases.
How to pay for Southwest Wi-Fi onboard?
You pay for Southwest Wi-Fi directly through the Inflight Entertainment Portal using a credit card. Simply connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network and follow the prompts to purchase.
How to use iMessage or WhatsApp for free on Southwest?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, access the Inflight Entertainment Portal, and select the free messaging option. Ensure you downloaded and activated iMessage and WhatsApp on your device before your flight.
How to stream movies on Southwest Wi-Fi?
You can stream movies for free through the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal. It's highly recommended to download the Southwest app before your flight for the best experience, as some content requires it. Note that paid Wi-Fi access does not typically allow streaming from external services like Netflix or HBO Max due to bandwidth restrictions.
How to troubleshoot Southwest Wi-Fi if it's not working?
First, ensure your device is in Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi is enabled. Try toggling Wi-Fi off/on, forgetting the network, or restarting your device. Manually type southwestwifi.com into your browser. If you purchased access and it's still not working, contact Southwest customer service for a refund after your flight.
How to know if Southwest Wi-Fi allows video calls?
Southwest Airlines explicitly prohibits access to high-bandwidth applications and video conferencing services like FaceTime or Zoom to maintain stable service for all passengers.
How to get a refund for Southwest Wi-Fi if it was bad?
If you experience significant issues with your paid Wi-Fi service, you can contact Southwest Airlines customer service after your flight to request a refund. Many passengers report successful refunds for unreliable service.
How to use multiple devices with one Wi-Fi purchase on Southwest?
The $8 Wi-Fi purchase is per device, per flight. You cannot use one purchase for multiple devices simultaneously. You would need to purchase separate Wi-Fi access for each device you wish to connect.
How to prepare my device for Southwest's free entertainment?
Before your flight, download the Southwest Airlines app from your app store. This app allows you to access their free movies and on-demand TV content once you connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network.
