Hey there, frequent flyer or first-time adventurer! Ever found yourself wondering, "Is my Southwest flight on time?" or "Where exactly is that plane right now?" You're not alone! Tracking a flight can be crucial for everything from picking up loved ones at the airport to managing your own travel plans in case of delays. Luckily, Southwest Airlines offers several easy and efficient ways to keep tabs on your flight. Let's dive in and become flight-tracking pros!
How to Track a Southwest Airlines Flight: Your Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you're a tech-savvy traveler or prefer a quick phone call, Southwest provides multiple avenues to get the real-time flight information you need. We'll walk you through each method in detail.
Step 1: Choose Your Tracking Method – What's Your Style?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's figure out which method suits you best. Are you usually glued to your phone, or do you prefer to check things from your computer? Perhaps you're already at the airport and need a quick glance at a screen.
For the App Enthusiast: The Southwest Airlines Mobile App is your best friend. It offers a wealth of features beyond just flight tracking, including booking, check-in, and even mobile boarding passes.
For the Web Surfer: Southwest.com is a reliable option for checking flight status directly from your computer or mobile browser.
For the "Just Tell Me" Type: A quick call to Southwest Customer Service or checking airport information displays can also provide the details you need.
For the Aviation Geek: Third-party flight tracker websites and apps offer detailed maps and historical data.
Once you've got your preferred method in mind, let's proceed!
Step 2: Tracking via the Southwest Airlines Mobile App (Recommended for Convenience!)
The Southwest Mobile App is incredibly user-friendly and provides real-time updates directly to your smartphone. It's available for both iOS and Android devices.
Sub-heading 2.1: Downloading and Logging In
Download the App: If you don't already have it, search for "Southwest Airlines" in your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS) and download it.
Open the App and Log In (Optional but Recommended): While you can check flight status as a guest, logging into your Rapid Rewards account will personalize your experience and automatically display your upcoming trips. If you have a reservation, it'll likely appear under the "My Trips" section.
Sub-heading 2.2: Finding Your Flight's Status
There are a few ways to find your flight's status within the app:
From "My Trips": If you're logged in and have an upcoming flight, it will usually be displayed on the home screen or under the "My Trips" tab. Simply tap on your flight to see its current status, including departure/arrival times, gate information, and any delays.
Using the "Flight Status" Feature: Even if you're not logged in or want to track someone else's flight, you can use the dedicated "Flight Status" option.
On the app's main screen, look for a section or button labeled "Flight Status."
You'll then typically have options to search by:
Flight Number: This is the most direct method. Enter the Southwest flight number (e.g., WN1234, or just 1234).
Route (Origin and Destination): Select the departure and arrival airports and the date of travel. This is useful if you don't have the specific flight number.
Tap "Search" or "Find Flight."
The app will then display the flight's current status, which could be "Scheduled," "Departed," "In Air," "Landed," "Arrived," "Delayed," or "Cancelled." You'll also see updated departure and arrival times, and often gate information.
Sub-heading 2.3: Enabling Push Notifications
For the ultimate convenience, enable push notifications within the Southwest app. This means you'll receive automatic alerts for:
Check-in reminders
Flight status updates (delays, gate changes, etc.)
Boarding announcements
You can usually manage these preferences in the app's settings.
Step 3: Tracking via Southwest.com (For Desktop or Browser Users)
The Southwest Airlines website offers similar functionality to the app and is perfect for checking flight status from your computer.
Sub-heading 3.1: Navigating to the Flight Status Page
Go to Southwest.com: Open your web browser and go to
www.southwest.com Find "Flight Status": Look for a "Flight Status" link or section. It's often found in the main navigation menu, under "Travel Tools," or directly on the homepage.
Sub-heading 3.2: Entering Your Flight Information
Similar to the app, you'll have options to search:
By Flight Number: Enter the Southwest flight number (e.g., WN 567).
By Route: Select the departure airport, arrival airport, and the date of travel.
Sub-heading 3.3: Interpreting the Results
Once you submit your search, you'll see a page displaying:
The flight's current status (e.g., "On Time," "Delayed," "Arrived").
Scheduled departure and arrival times.
Actual or estimated departure and arrival times.
Departure and arrival gates (if available).
Sometimes, even the aircraft tail number!
Step 4: Other Useful Tracking Methods
While the official Southwest channels are the most reliable, other tools can come in handy.
Sub-heading 4.1: Third-Party Flight Tracker Websites and Apps
Many websites and mobile apps specialize in global flight tracking and can be useful for Southwest flights too. Popular options include:
FlightAware (flightaware.com)
FlightStats (https://www.google.com/search?q=flightstats.com)
FlightRadar24 (flightradar24.com)
These platforms often provide detailed maps showing the aircraft's live position, historical flight data, and airport delay information. Just enter the airline code (WN for Southwest) and the flight number.
Sub-heading 4.2: Airport Information Displays
If you're at the airport, keep an eye on the large digital information displays (FIDS - Flight Information Display Systems). These screens provide real-time updates on all arriving and departing flights, including gate changes, delays, and cancellations. They are usually found throughout the terminal and near the gate areas.
Sub-heading 4.3: Direct Contact with Southwest Airlines
If all else fails, or if you prefer speaking to a human, you can always:
Call Southwest Customer Service: Their representatives can provide the latest flight status information. Have your flight number or booking details ready.
Speak to a Gate Agent: If you're at the airport, a Southwest gate agent can provide direct updates and assistance.
Step 5: Understanding Flight Status Terms
When you track a flight, you'll encounter various terms. Here's a quick rundown of what they mean:
Scheduled: The flight is planned to depart/arrive at the stated time, but has not yet departed.
On Time: The flight is expected to operate as scheduled.
Departed: The flight has left its origin gate. It might be airborne or taxiing.
In Air: The aircraft is currently flying. You might see its live position on a map.
Landed: The aircraft has touched down at the destination airport.
Arrived: The aircraft has reached its destination gate and passengers are disembarking.
Delayed: The flight is expected to depart or arrive later than its original scheduled time. Look for the estimated new time.
Cancelled: The flight has been called off.
Diverted: The flight has changed its destination mid-flight, usually due to weather or emergencies.
No Takeoff Info: Real-time status might be unavailable. It's best to contact the airline or check other sources.
Step 6: Beyond Basic Tracking - What to Do with the Information
Knowing your flight's status is just the first step. Here's how to use that information effectively:
Sub-heading 6.1: Preparing for Delays
If your flight is delayed, check the estimated new departure time.
Consider if the delay impacts your connecting flights (if any) or ground transportation.
Southwest often provides options for significantly delayed flights, such as rebooking or refunds. Check their "Travel Advisories & Alerts" section on their website or app.
Sub-heading 6.2: Planning Airport Arrival
If you're dropping off or picking up someone, tracking the flight allows you to time your arrival at the airport perfectly, avoiding unnecessary waiting.
Be aware of TSA wait times at your departure airport, which can also be found on the Southwest app or airport websites.
Sub-heading 6.3: Staying Informed About Gate Changes
Gate changes are common, especially in busy airports. Your flight tracker will update you on any gate changes, saving you frantic dashes across terminals.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to track any Southwest Airlines flight with confidence and ease. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check Southwest Airlines flight status by flight number?
You can check Southwest Airlines flight status by flight number on their official website (Southwest.com) or their mobile app. Simply navigate to the "Flight Status" section and enter the flight number (e.g., WN1234 or just 1234) and the date of travel.
How to track a Southwest flight on the mobile app?
Download the "Southwest Airlines" mobile app, open it, and either log in to see your "My Trips" or go to the "Flight Status" section. You can then search by flight number or by origin and destination airports and the date.
How to get real-time updates for my Southwest flight?
The best way to get real-time updates is by enabling push notifications on the Southwest Airlines mobile app or by regularly checking the "Flight Status" section on Southwest.com. Third-party flight tracking apps also provide real-time updates.
How to know if my Southwest flight is delayed or cancelled?
The flight status information on the Southwest Airlines website, mobile app, or airport information displays will clearly indicate if a flight is "Delayed" (with an estimated new time) or "Cancelled." You may also receive direct notifications if you've opted in.
How to find my Southwest flight's departure and arrival gate?
Your departure and arrival gate information will be displayed on the Southwest Airlines mobile app, Southwest.com's flight status page, and on airport information displays once it's available, typically a few hours before departure or upon arrival.
How to track checked baggage on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines offers a "Track Your Bag" feature on their website and mobile app. You typically need your last name and possibly a confirmation number to track the progress of your checked bags.
How to use third-party flight trackers for Southwest flights?
Visit websites like FlightAware.com, FlightStats.com, or FlightRadar24.com. Enter "WN" as the airline code for Southwest, followed by the flight number, or search by route to see detailed tracking information, including live maps.
How to check Southwest flight status by route (origin and destination)?
On Southwest.com or the Southwest Airlines mobile app, go to the "Flight Status" section and select the option to search by route. You'll then enter your departure airport, arrival airport, and the date of travel.
How to know the historical on-time performance of a Southwest flight?
Some third-party flight tracking websites like FlightStats or FlightAware provide historical data on a flight's on-time performance, allowing you to see how frequently a specific flight experiences delays.
How to receive alerts for Southwest flight changes via email or SMS?
While the Southwest mobile app offers push notifications, you can often sign up for email or SMS alerts directly through the airline's website when you book your flight or manage your reservation. Many third-party flight trackers also offer this service.
