Let's be honest, we've all been there: you're flying Southwest, you love the open seating policy (or at least tolerate it!), but the thought of getting stuck in a middle seat in the back of the plane fills you with dread. Fear not, fellow traveler! While Southwest doesn't offer traditional "seat upgrades" in the way many other airlines do (since there's no first or business class cabin), they have a fantastic system for getting you on the plane earlier, which in turn means you get your pick of the best available seats! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to maximize your chances of snagging that coveted window or aisle seat up front.
How to Upgrade Your Seat on Southwest Airlines: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Boarding Positions
Southwest Airlines operates on a unique open-seating policy. This means there are no assigned seats when you book your ticket. Instead, you're assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position within that group (1-60) when you check in. The earlier you board, the more choices you have! So, "upgrading your seat" on Southwest essentially means securing an earlier boarding position.
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| How Do I Upgrade My Seat On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Engage with Your Travel Plans Early!
This is perhaps the most crucial step. Don't wait until the last minute! The earlier you think about your boarding position, the more options you'll have and the better your chances of a prime seat.
Sub-heading: Understanding Southwest's Boarding Process
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's quickly recap how Southwest's boarding works:
Pre-boarding: This is for passengers with disabilities or those who need extra time to board, along with one companion. You'll need to speak to a gate agent to see if you qualify.
Group A (A1-A60): These are the first to board after pre-boarding.
A1-A15: Typically reserved for Business Select fare holders, A-List/A-List Preferred members, or those who purchased "Upgraded Boarding" (more on this soon!).
A16-A60: Assigned to those with EarlyBird Check-In or who checked in promptly at the 24-hour mark.
Family Boarding: If you're traveling with a child age six or younger, you and one other adult can board after Group A but before Group B. Active military in uniform can also board at this time.
Group B (B1-B60): Boards after Family Boarding.
Group C (C1-C60): The last group to board.
Step 2: Choose Your Fare Wisely (If Booking New Travel)
The fare type you purchase can significantly impact your boarding position. If you're booking a new flight, consider these options for an inherent advantage:
Sub-heading: Business Select: The Premium Option
If you want the best possible chance of an A1-A15 boarding position, Business Select is your go-to. This fare class automatically includes a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position, along with other perks like a refundable ticket, extra Rapid Rewards points, and a complimentary premium drink. While it's the most expensive fare, it offers the highest level of boarding certainty.
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
Sub-heading: Anytime Fares: EarlyBird Included
Anytime fares are more flexible than the basic "Wanna Get Away" fares and include EarlyBird Check-In. This means Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before your flight, typically securing you an earlier boarding position (often in the A group, after Business Select and A-List members).
Step 3: Utilize Southwest's Boarding Enhancements
Southwest offers specific products designed to get you on the plane earlier. These are your primary tools for "upgrading" your boarding position without buying a higher fare class outright.
Sub-heading: Option 1: EarlyBird Check-In
EarlyBird Check-In is a fantastic option for those who want a better boarding position without the higher cost of Business Select.
Purchase EarlyBird Check-In: You can add EarlyBird Check-In to your reservation when you initially book your flight on Southwest.com, through the Southwest app, or by calling customer service.
Timing is Key: You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In up to 36 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. While it automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, availability is limited, so it's best to purchase it as soon as you can if you want it. The price varies by flight but typically ranges from $15-$25 per person, per one-way segment.
Automatic Check-in: Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before your flight, assigning you an earlier boarding position before the general 24-hour check-in window opens. This usually places you in a strong position within the A or early B group.
Sub-heading: Option 2: Upgraded Boarding
Upgraded Boarding is a great last-minute option if you missed EarlyBird Check-In or want an even better position.
Availability Window: Upgraded Boarding becomes available within 24 hours of your flight's departure and is sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Purchase:
Online/App: You can purchase Upgraded Boarding on Southwest.com or through the Southwest mobile app within 24 hours of your flight. Look for the "Upgraded Boarding" option under your reservation.
At the Gate/Ticket Counter: If available, you can also purchase Upgraded Boarding at the airport ticket counter or at the departure gate on the day of your flight. Look for signs advertising "Upgrade your boarding position" or ask a Southwest agent.
Guaranteed A1-A15: If you purchase Upgraded Boarding, you are assigned a boarding position from A1-A15, which means you'll be among the very first to board (after pre-boarders and Business Select passengers). The cost typically ranges from $30-$50 per segment.
Credit Card Benefit: Some Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards offer complimentary Upgraded Boarding credits each year. Check your card benefits to see if you qualify! If you have a Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card or a Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card, you may receive four Upgraded Boardings per cardmember year. You'll still need to "purchase" them, but the cost will be reimbursed as a statement credit.
Step 4: The Standard 24-Hour Check-in Sprint
Even if you don't purchase EarlyBird or Upgraded Boarding, you can still significantly improve your boarding position by being diligent about the free 24-hour check-in.
Set an Alarm: Set a reminder on your phone for exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is when online check-in opens for all passengers.
Check in Immediately: As soon as the 24-hour mark hits, go to Southwest.com or open the Southwest app and check in for your flight. The faster you check in, the earlier your boarding position will be. This can often land you in the later A or early B group, giving you a much better chance at a desirable seat compared to checking in just a few hours before departure.
Step 5: Strategic Boarding and Seat Selection
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
Once you have your boarding position, here's how to make the most of it:
Sub-heading: Line Up Promptly
When your boarding group is called at the gate, don't delay! Line up quickly in your assigned numerical spot. Every second counts when you're vying for the best seats.
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Sub-heading: Know Your Preferred Seats
Have a game plan before you even step on the plane. Do you prefer a window, aisle, or exit row?
Exit Row Seats: These offer significantly more legroom. On some Southwest aircraft, the exit row seats at 16A and 16F are particularly prized as they often don't have a seat directly in front of them, offering even more space! If you're looking for maximum legroom, head straight for these. Remember, you must be able to perform exit row duties to sit here.
Bulkhead Seats: These are the seats directly behind a dividing wall (bulkhead). They offer ample legroom as there are no seats in front to recline into your space. However, there's no under-seat storage in front of you, and tray tables are typically in the armrest.
Front of the Plane: If you're in a hurry to deplane, aiming for the first few rows is your best bet.
Sub-heading: Be Decisive
Once you board, walk purposefully to your desired seat. Don't hesitate or wander around, as others are also looking for their ideal spot.
Step 6: Leveraging Elite Status (For Frequent Flyers)
If you fly Southwest frequently, achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status with their Rapid Rewards program can give you a significant advantage.
Sub-heading: A-List Status
Priority Boarding: A-List members (and everyone on their reservation) automatically receive priority boarding, with a boarding position assigned 36 hours prior to the flight (similar to EarlyBird Check-In). This often results in an A or early B boarding pass.
Qualifying: Earn 25 qualifying one-way flights or 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
Sub-heading: A-List Preferred Status
Even Better Priority Boarding: A-List Preferred members (and those on their reservation) receive an even higher priority boarding position, automatically assigned 36 hours prior to the flight. This typically guarantees an A boarding position (often A1-A15).
Free Inflight Wi-Fi: An added perk!
Qualifying: Earn 40 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to get an A-group boarding pass on Southwest?
You can get an A-group boarding pass by purchasing a Business Select fare, having A-List or A-List Preferred elite status, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or purchasing Upgraded Boarding (A1-A15) within 24 hours of your flight.
How to buy Upgraded Boarding on Southwest Airlines?
You can buy Upgraded Boarding on Southwest.com or the Southwest mobile app within 24 hours of your flight's departure, or at the airport ticket counter or departure gate on the day of travel, subject to availability.
How to use a Southwest credit card benefit for Upgraded Boarding?
If you have a qualifying Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card (like the Priority or Performance Business card), you can purchase Upgraded Boarding as described above, and the cost will be reimbursed as a statement credit on your card.
How to get EarlyBird Check-In for my Southwest flight?
You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest.com or through the Southwest app when you book your flight, or add it to an existing reservation up to 36 hours before your flight's scheduled departure.
Tip: Share this article if you find it helpful.
How to check in for my Southwest flight exactly 24 hours before?
Set an alarm for precisely 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. As soon as the alarm rings, go to Southwest.com or open the Southwest app and complete the check-in process immediately.
How to find the best seats on a Southwest plane?
The "best" seats are subjective, but generally, A1-A15 boarding positions allow you to choose from prime seats. Look for exit rows (often Row 11 or 16 depending on the aircraft) for maximum legroom, or bulkhead seats (Row 1) for no reclining seats in front of you.
How to sit with my family on Southwest with open seating?
To increase your chances of sitting together, try to secure earlier boarding positions for everyone in your party (e.g., through EarlyBird Check-In, Upgraded Boarding, or checking in exactly 24 hours prior). If you have a child aged six or younger, you can use Family Boarding after Group A.
How to know my Southwest boarding group and position?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60) will be assigned when you check in for your flight and will be displayed on your boarding pass (digital or printed).
How to change my seat on Southwest if I don't like it?
Once you board a Southwest flight, you choose any available open seat. There is no formal "seat change" process once you've selected your seat on board, as it's open seating. If you're unhappy with your initial choice, you might politely ask a flight attendant if there are other open seats available once boarding is complete, but this is not guaranteed.
How to get priority boarding without elite status on Southwest?
You can get priority boarding without elite status by purchasing a Business Select fare, or by purchasing Upgraded Boarding within 24 hours of your flight, which gives you an A1-A15 position. EarlyBird Check-In also grants an earlier boarding position.
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