Ever flown Southwest Airlines and found yourself wondering how some passengers seem to board before everyone else? You're not alone! While Southwest is famous for its open seating policy, there are specific provisions for "pre-boarding" that can significantly enhance your travel experience, especially if you have particular needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Southwest pre-boarding, helping you understand if you qualify and how to make the most of it.
So, are you ready to unlock the secrets to an earlier boarding position and a more comfortable journey? Let's dive in!
Understanding Southwest's Unique Boarding Process
Before we delve into pre-boarding, it's essential to grasp Southwest's standard boarding procedure. Unlike most airlines that assign specific seats, Southwest operates on an open seating system. This means that once you board, you can choose any available seat. Your boarding position is determined by a combination of factors, including:
Fare type: Business Select fares receive the highest priority (A1-A15).
Check-in time: The earlier you check in (exactly 24 hours before your flight), the better your boarding position within your assigned group (A, B, or C).
EarlyBird Check-In: For a fee, Southwest automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, often securing an "A" or early "B" boarding position.
Upgraded Boarding: Available for purchase at the gate or through the app within 24 hours of departure, this can give you an A1-A15 position if available.
A-List/A-List Preferred Status: Elite members receive priority boarding.
While this system offers flexibility, it can lead to a scramble for desirable seats (window, aisle, front of the plane). This is where pre-boarding comes in!
Step 1: Do You Qualify for Pre-Boarding? Understanding the Eligibility Criteria
This is the most crucial first step! Southwest Airlines has specific guidelines for who can pre-board. It's not a perk you can purchase (like Upgraded Boarding or EarlyBird Check-In), but rather an accommodation for those who require special assistance.
Southwest states that pre-boarding is available for Customers with disabilities who:
Need a specific seat to accommodate their disability.
Need assistance boarding the aircraft.
Need to stow an assistive device.
Important distinctions to keep in mind:
Not all disabilities qualify for pre-boarding. If you simply need a little extra time to board or be seated but don't meet the above criteria, you may qualify to board between the "A" and "B" groups, before Family Boarding. This is typically referred to as "extra time" boarding (XT).
One travel companion may pre-board with the eligible customer. If you feel you need an exception to this (e.g., more than one companion due to specific care needs), you'll need to discuss this with a Customer Service Agent at the gate.
If you pre-board, you cannot occupy an exit row seat. This is a safety regulation as passengers in exit rows must be able to assist in an emergency evacuation.
Customers with autism or intellectual disabilities may be eligible for pre-boarding, with one accompanying adult.
Examples of situations that might qualify for pre-boarding:
You use a wheelchair and need assistance transferring to your seat.
You have a service animal that requires extra space or time to get settled.
You have a medical condition that makes navigating the aisle or finding a specific seat difficult in a crowded cabin.
You are traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator or other medical equipment that needs to be stowed carefully.
Step 2: Requesting Pre-Boarding: Your Options and What to Expect
Once you've determined you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to request pre-boarding. This cannot be done online in advance.
Sub-heading: Requesting at the Airport
The most common and recommended way to request pre-boarding is in person at the airport.
Approach a Southwest Customer Service Agent: You can do this at the ticket counter when you first arrive at the airport, or more commonly, at the departure gate.
Clearly State Your Need: Inform the agent that you require pre-boarding due to a disability and briefly explain why (e.g., "I need pre-boarding because I use a wheelchair and require assistance getting to my seat," or "I need pre-boarding as I'm traveling with a service animal that needs time to settle.").
Answer "Fact-Finding Questions": The agent will likely ask you some questions to determine if you qualify. These questions are designed to ensure the accommodation is genuinely needed and to comply with regulations. Be prepared to explain your specific need.
Receive Your New Boarding Pass: If you qualify, the agent will provide you with a new boarding pass marked with "PRBD" (for pre-board). This designation signals to the Operations Agent at the boarding gate that you are eligible to pre-board.
Communicate with the Operations Agent (if needed): If your pre-boarding is specifically because you need a particular seat (e.g., bulkhead for legroom with a service animal, or a specific type of seat for a medical device), it's a good idea to also speak with the Operations Agent at the gate after getting your PRBD boarding pass but before pre-boarding officially begins. This allows them to assist you in finding the most suitable seat.
Sub-heading: What if I didn't request in advance?
Even if you didn't manage to speak to an agent at the ticket counter, you can still request pre-boarding at the departure gate. Just ensure you give yourself enough time before boarding commences.
Sub-heading: Planning Ahead (though not a direct request channel)
While you can't request pre-boarding online, if you have specific accessibility needs (like wheelchair assistance), you can often indicate these needs when managing your reservation online. While this doesn't guarantee pre-boarding, it can alert the airline to your general needs, which might streamline the process at the airport. However, the direct request for pre-boarding still happens at the airport.
Step 3: The Boarding Process: When and How Pre-Boarding Happens
Once you have your "PRBD" boarding pass, here's how the actual boarding process will unfold:
Listen for the Announcement: The gate agent will typically make an announcement for pre-boarding before they call for Business Select (A1-A15) passengers.
Proceed to the Gate: When your group is called, you and your one authorized companion will proceed to the boarding gate.
Show Your "PRBD" Pass: Present your special boarding pass to the Operations Agent.
Board the Aircraft: You'll then be among the very first passengers to board the plane. This gives you ample time to:
Find a suitable seat that meets your needs.
Stow any assistive devices comfortably.
Settle in without the rush of general boarding.
Engage with Flight Attendants (if necessary): Once onboard, if you need further assistance (e.g., help lifting a bag, identifying your seat, or needing a safety briefing), do not hesitate to inform a Flight Attendant. They are there to assist passengers with disabilities.
Sub-heading: Differentiating Pre-Boarding from Family Boarding
It's important not to confuse pre-boarding with "Family Boarding."
Pre-Boarding: As discussed, this is for customers with disabilities who meet specific criteria for assistance.
Family Boarding: This occurs after the "A" group has boarded and before the "B" group begins boarding. It allows up to two adults traveling with a child six years old or younger to board together. The purpose is to help families find seats together. If your child is older than six, you'll board with your assigned group.
Step 4: Tips for a Smooth Pre-Boarding Experience
To ensure your pre-boarding experience is as seamless as possible, consider these additional tips:
Arrive Early: Even though you're pre-boarding, arriving at the airport with plenty of time is always a good idea. This allows for unexpected delays, gives you time to speak with agents, and reduces stress.
Clearly Communicate Your Needs: Don't be shy about explaining your situation to the Southwest agents. The more clearly you articulate your specific needs, the better they can assist you.
Be Prepared for Questions: As mentioned, agents may ask "fact-finding questions." Answer them honestly and directly.
Understand the Rules: Remember the "one companion" rule and the "no exit row" rule. Being aware of these policies will prevent any misunderstandings at the gate.
Keep Documentation Handy (if applicable): While not always required, if you have a medical condition or service animal, having relevant documentation (e.g., a doctor's note for a specific medical device, or the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation form for a service animal) readily available can be helpful, though typically, a verbal explanation is sufficient for pre-boarding itself.
Be Patient and Polite: Airline staff deal with a lot of passengers. A calm and courteous demeanor can go a long way in ensuring a positive experience.
Do Not Abuse the System: Pre-boarding is a valuable accommodation for those who genuinely need it. Attempting to pre-board without qualifying can cause delays and take away from those with legitimate needs.
By following these steps and understanding Southwest's policies, you can navigate the pre-boarding process with confidence and enjoy a more comfortable start to your journey.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to request pre-boarding for a medical condition on Southwest?
You must speak to a Southwest Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate and explain your medical need for pre-boarding. They will ask questions to confirm eligibility and issue a "PRBD" boarding pass.
How to pre-board Southwest with a service animal?
You can pre-board with a fully trained service dog (the only service animal accepted by Southwest). You'll need to present a completed U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation form at the ticket counter or gate, and your dog must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times.
How to get pre-boarding if you need extra time to board Southwest?
If you only need extra time to board but don't meet the specific pre-boarding criteria (disability requiring a specific seat, boarding assistance, or device stowage), you may qualify to board between the "A" and "B" groups, before Family Boarding. Ask a Customer Service Agent for an "XT" boarding pass.
How to pre-board Southwest with a child with a disability?
Customers traveling with a child with a disability (including those with autism or intellectual disabilities) may be eligible for pre-boarding. Speak with a Customer Service Agent at the airport. One adult may pre-board with the child.
How to determine if I qualify for pre-boarding on Southwest?
You qualify if you have a disability and need a specific seat to accommodate that disability, require assistance boarding the aircraft, or need to stow an assistive device. It's not for general convenience.
How to ensure I get a good seat when pre-boarding Southwest?
Pre-boarding gives you the earliest access to the aircraft, allowing you to choose any available seat. If you need a specific type of seat (e.g., bulkhead), inform the Operations Agent at the gate after receiving your "PRBD" pass.
How to handle a gate agent who denies pre-boarding on Southwest?
If you believe you meet the criteria and are denied, politely reiterate your specific need as per Southwest's policy. If still unresolved, ask to speak with a supervisor. Always maintain a calm and respectful demeanor.
How to purchase pre-boarding on Southwest Airlines?
You cannot purchase pre-boarding on Southwest Airlines. Pre-boarding is an accommodation for customers with specific disabilities and is not a paid service. However, you can purchase "Upgraded Boarding" for an A1-A15 position if available.
How to know when pre-boarding starts on Southwest?
The gate agent will make a clear announcement for pre-boarding, typically before calling for the A group. Listen carefully to the announcements at your gate.
How to pre-board Southwest with a wheelchair?
Inform a Southwest Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or gate that you use a wheelchair and require assistance boarding. They will issue you a "PRBD" boarding pass, and airport staff will assist you with the boarding process and stowing your wheelchair.
