Hey there, frequent flyer or first-timer! Ready to stay connected even while cruising at 30,000 feet with Southwest Airlines? Fantastic! Getting online or enjoying some entertainment on your Southwest flight is a breeze if you know the steps. Forget those long, boring flights; with Southwest's inflight connectivity, you can catch up on emails, text your loved ones, or even dive into a movie. Let's get you connected!
Connecting to Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines: Your Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide
Southwest Airlines offers a fantastic inflight entertainment portal and paid Wi-Fi access on most of its Wi-Fi-enabled aircraft. While the entertainment portal with movies, live TV, and music is free, full internet access comes at a small fee, with some exceptions for elite members. Here's how to navigate the digital skies with ease:
Step 1: Prepare Your Device Before You Fly
Download the Southwest App (Crucial for Entertainment!): This is perhaps the most important pre-flight step, especially if you plan to enjoy Southwest's vast library of free movies and on-demand TV shows. While you can access some content via the web portal, the app often provides a smoother, more comprehensive entertainment experience.
For Apple users: Head to the Apple App Store.
For Android users: Open the Google Play Store.
Search for "Southwest Airlines" and download the official app. Make sure it's updated to the latest version for the best experience.
Charge Your Devices: There's nothing worse than running out of battery mid-movie or email! While Southwest is gradually adding in-seat power (USB-A and USB-C ports) to its aircraft, it's not yet available on all planes. So, come prepared with a full charge.
Consider Your Browsers: Make sure you have a modern, updated web browser installed on your device (e.g., Chrome, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge).
Step 2: Boarding and Pre-Flight Setup
Wait for the "All Clear": While Wi-Fi might technically be available during taxi, takeoff, and landing, it's generally best practice to wait until the aircraft reaches cruising altitude and the "fasten seatbelt" sign has been turned off by the flight crew. They'll usually make an announcement when it's safe to use personal electronic devices more freely.
Activate Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi: This is standard procedure for any flight.
Go to your device's Settings.
Toggle on Airplane Mode. This will disable cellular data and other radios.
Immediately after, toggle on your Wi-Fi. Yes, your Wi-Fi will still work in airplane mode!
Step 3: Connecting to the Southwest Wi-Fi Network
Select "SouthwestWiFi":
From your device's Wi-Fi settings, you'll see a list of available networks.
Look for and select the network named "SouthwestWiFi." It should appear automatically once you've enabled Wi-Fi.
Automatic Portal Redirection:
Once connected to "SouthwestWiFi," your device should automatically open a web browser and redirect you to the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal.
If it doesn't open automatically: Don't panic! Move to the next sub-step.
Manually Access the Portal (If Needed):
Open your web browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge, etc.).
In the address bar, type
www.southwestwifi.com Tip: Sometimes, if the portal doesn't load, you might see an option to copy a URL. Copy it and paste it into your browser. Alternatively, some users have reported success by trying to access
http://88.8.8.8orhttp://captive.apple.comto force the captive portal page to load.
Step 4: Navigating the Inflight Entertainment Portal
You're now on the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal! This is your gateway to both free entertainment and paid internet access.
Free Inflight Entertainment:
Live TV: Enjoy a selection of live television channels.
Movies: Access a wide variety of free on-demand movies. Remember, for the best experience with movies, having the Southwest app downloaded beforehand is highly recommended.
On-Demand TV Series: Catch up on episodes of various TV shows.
Music: Tune into free music from iHeartRadio.
Flight Tracker: Keep an eye on your journey, including estimated arrival time and current location. This is always a cool feature!
Free Messaging:
Southwest offers complimentary messaging through iMessage (for Apple users) and WhatsApp.
You'll need to activate this service within the Inflight Entertainment Portal. Make sure you have these apps downloaded and set up before your flight.
Purchasing Internet Access:
If you want full internet access for Browse the web, checking emails, or using social media, you'll need to purchase it.
The cost is typically $8 per device, per flight. This means if you have a connecting flight, you'll need to purchase access for each leg of your journey.
Look for the option to "Purchase Wi-Fi" or "Get Internet Access" on the portal. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete your purchase using a credit card.
Step 5: Enjoying Your Connectivity (and Understanding Limitations)
General Browse, Email, Social Media: Once you've purchased internet access, you're good to go for most standard online activities.
Bandwidth Limitations (Important!): Southwest's inflight Wi-Fi, like most airline Wi-Fi, has limitations. To ensure a good experience for all passengers, Southwest prohibits access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites. This typically includes:
Streaming Services: Don't expect to stream Netflix, HBO Go, YouTube, or other similar video streaming platforms. These are blocked to conserve bandwidth.
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): Services like FaceTime, Skype calls, or other voice/video calling apps are generally not supported.
So, manage your expectations! The paid Wi-Fi is great for productivity and light communication, not for binge-watching your favorite series.
A-List Preferred & Business Select Perks: If you're a Southwest A-List Preferred member or have purchased a Business Select fare, you get complimentary Wi-Fi access on all Southwest flights! This is a fantastic perk for frequent flyers. Some Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards, like the Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card, also offer Wi-Fi credits or reimbursements.
Troubleshooting Tips:
If you experience issues, try disconnecting and reconnecting to the "SouthwestWiFi" network.
Refresh your browser or try closing and reopening it.
If the problem persists, a polite inquiry to a flight attendant might help, though their ability to troubleshoot technical issues is often limited.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to make the most of Southwest Airlines' inflight connectivity, whether you're working, relaxing, or just staying in touch. Enjoy your flight!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about connecting to Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines:
How to access free movies on Southwest Airlines?
You can access free movies by connecting to the "SouthwestWiFi" network and navigating to the Inflight Entertainment Portal (
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
While full internet access costs $8 per flight, A-List Preferred members and passengers with a Business Select fare receive complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, certain Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards may offer Wi-Fi credits or reimbursements. You can also send free messages via iMessage and WhatsApp through the portal without purchasing full internet access.
How to know if my Southwest flight has Wi-Fi?
Most Southwest Airlines aircraft are Wi-Fi enabled. You'll typically see "SouthwestWiFi" as an available network in your device's Wi-Fi settings once the plane is in the air. Flight attendants will also usually announce the availability of inflight entertainment and connectivity.
How to use iMessage or WhatsApp for free on Southwest?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, open the Inflight Entertainment Portal (
How to pay for Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
Once connected to the "SouthwestWiFi" network and on the Inflight Entertainment Portal (
How to watch live TV on Southwest Airlines?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network and access the Inflight Entertainment Portal (
How to fix Southwest Wi-Fi not working?
First, try disconnecting from "SouthwestWiFi" and reconnecting. If that doesn't work, refresh your browser or close and reopen it. You can also try manually typing www.southwestwifi.com into your browser. In some rare cases, trying http://88.8.8.8 or http://captive.apple.com might force the portal to load. If issues persist, the Wi-Fi system might be experiencing a temporary outage, which is beyond your control.
How to stream Netflix or YouTube on Southwest Wi-Fi?
Unfortunately, you cannot stream Netflix, YouTube, HBO Go, or other high-bandwidth video streaming services on Southwest Airlines' Wi-Fi. These services are blocked to ensure a consistent and usable internet experience for all passengers due to bandwidth limitations. You can, however, enjoy the free movies and TV shows available on the Inflight Entertainment Portal.
How to prepare my device for Southwest inflight Wi-Fi?
Before your flight, download the Southwest Airlines mobile app to access the full entertainment library. Ensure your device is fully charged, as in-seat power might not be available on all aircraft. Also, update your web browser to the latest version.
How to know the cost of Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi?
Internet access on Southwest Airlines costs $8 per device, per flight. This is a flat fee for the duration of that specific flight segment. If you have connecting flights, you'll need to purchase access for each individual flight.
