Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines? Getting your boarding pass is a crucial step, and unlike some other airlines, Southwest has a unique open seating policy that makes when you get your boarding pass incredibly important for securing your preferred seat. So, let's dive in and make sure you're fully prepared!
Your Essential Guide: How to Get Your Boarding Pass for Southwest Airlines
Ready to fly with Southwest? Excellent! The process of getting your boarding pass is straightforward, but with Southwest's unique boarding system, a little strategy can go a long way. Let's break it down step-by-step to ensure you get the best possible boarding position.
Step 1: Engage with Your Trip – Know Your Check-in Window!
Did you know that on Southwest, your boarding position is largely determined by how early you check in? This is a game-changer! Southwest uses an open seating policy with assigned boarding groups (A, B, C) and positions (1-60). The earlier you check in, the better your group and position, which means earlier access to the plane and more seat choices.
The Golden Rule: Online check-in for Southwest flights opens exactly 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure time. Mark your calendar, set an alarm, or put a reminder on your phone! Being ready at this precise moment can be the difference between an "A" boarding pass and a "C" boarding pass.
Before You Begin: Ensure you have your 6-digit Southwest confirmation number readily available. This unique code is essential for accessing your reservation. You'll also need the first and last name of a passenger on the itinerary.
Step 2: Choosing Your Boarding Pass Method – Online, Mobile, or Airport?
Southwest offers several convenient ways to get your boarding pass. The best method for you will depend on your preferences and how early you plan to check in.
Sub-heading: Option 1: Online Check-in (Highly Recommended!)
This is by far the most popular and recommended method for a better boarding position.
Access the Southwest Website:
Navigate to Southwest.com.
Look for the "Check In" tab or button prominently displayed on the homepage.
Enter Your Details:
On the check-in page, you'll be prompted to enter your Confirmation Number and the First and Last Name of a passenger on the reservation.
Double-check these details for accuracy to avoid any hiccups.
Confirm Your Flight:
After entering your information, you'll see your flight details. Confirm that it's the correct flight you wish to check in for.
Retrieve Your Boarding Pass:
Once successfully checked in, Southwest will assign you a boarding group and position (e.g., A35, B12, C45).
You'll then have options to obtain your boarding pass:
Print it at home: This is a convenient option if you have access to a printer.
Email it to yourself: You can then print it later or save it as a digital copy.
Send to Mobile Device (via text or email link): This is excellent for easy access on your smartphone.
Sub-heading: Option 2: Mobile Check-in via the Southwest Airlines App
The Southwest Airlines mobile app is an incredibly user-friendly tool for managing your entire trip, including check-in.
Download the App:
If you haven't already, download the official Southwest Airlines app from your smartphone's app store (iOS or Android).
Log In or Access Your Reservation:
Open the app. You can log in with your Rapid Rewards account or simply select "Check In" and enter your Confirmation Number and Last Name.
Check In and View Pass:
Follow the prompts to complete the check-in process.
Once checked in, tap the "Boarding Pass" button.
Your mobile boarding pass will appear, ready to be scanned at security and the gate.
Save to Mobile Wallet:
For ultimate convenience, you can usually add your mobile boarding pass directly to Apple Wallet (for iPhones) or Google Pay (for Android phones). This allows for quick access even without an internet connection.
Sub-heading: Option 3: Airport Check-in (Less Ideal for Boarding Position)
While convenient if you're already at the airport, checking in here often means you'll receive a later boarding position compared to those who checked in online as soon as the window opened.
Self-Service Kiosk:
Most airports served by Southwest have self-service kiosks in the check-in area.
Touch the screen and select "Check In."
You'll need to enter your Confirmation Number and verify your identity (sometimes by swiping a credit card or scanning an ID).
The kiosk will print your boarding pass.
Southwest Ticket Counter:
If you prefer personal assistance or have specific needs (e.g., unaccompanied minors, international travel with specific document checks), head to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter.
A Southwest agent will assist you with checking in and printing your boarding pass. Be sure to have your photo ID and confirmation number ready.
Skycap Podium (in select locations):
At some airports, you can check in and get a boarding pass at a Skycap podium outside the terminal. This is often quicker if you're also checking bags.
Step 3: Understanding Your Boarding Pass & Boarding Process
Once you have your boarding pass, take a moment to understand what it tells you, especially with Southwest's unique system.
Sub-heading: What's on Your Boarding Pass?
Your Southwest boarding pass will display a few key pieces of information:
Boarding Group (A, B, or C): This is your primary boarding category. Group A boards first, then B, then C.
Position Number (1-60): Within your group, this number indicates your precise boarding order. So, A1 will board before A2, and so on.
Flight Number, Date, and Time: Standard flight information.
Gate Number: Where your flight will depart from.
Sub-heading: The Southwest Boarding Process
Southwest's boarding process is often described as a "free-for-all" compared to assigned seating, but it's actually quite organized.
Pre-Boarding: This group boards first and is for passengers who need assistance, extra time, or have a specific disability accommodation. You must speak to a Southwest agent at the gate to qualify for pre-boarding.
A Group (1-60): After pre-boarding, the A group is called, starting with A1-A30, then A31-A60. Passengers with Business Select fares, A-List/A-List Preferred members, and those who purchased EarlyBird Check-In typically secure A positions.
Family Boarding: This happens after the A group has boarded, but before the B group. It allows families with children age six or younger to board together. Two adults per family can participate.
B Group (1-60): Next up is the B group, also called in increments (e.g., B1-B30, then B31-B60). If you check in exactly 24 hours prior without any special perks, you'll often land in the B group. You'll still have a good chance of finding an aisle or window seat.
C Group (1-60): This is the last group to board. If you check in late, you'll likely be in the C group. While you'll get a seat, it will most likely be a middle seat, especially on full flights.
Step 4: Maximizing Your Boarding Position (Optional but Smart!)
If getting a good seat is important to you, consider these options to improve your boarding position:
Sub-heading: EarlyBird Check-In®
What it is: This is a paid add-on that automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight, before the general 24-hour check-in window opens.
Benefits: It significantly increases your chances of getting an "A" or early "B" boarding position, giving you better seat selection and earlier access to overhead bin space.
How to purchase: You can add EarlyBird Check-In when you book your flight, or later through your reservation details on Southwest.com or the mobile app, as long as it's still available. Prices typically range from $15-$25 per person, per one-way flight.
Sub-heading: Business Select Fares
What it is: This is Southwest's highest fare class.
Benefits: Guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position, Fly By priority lane access, a complimentary premium drink, and more Rapid Rewards points.
Consideration: Business Select fares are typically more expensive but offer the best boarding perks.
Sub-heading: Rapid Rewards A-List & A-List Preferred Status
What it is: These are Southwest's elite frequent flyer tiers.
Benefits: A-List members automatically receive priority boarding (usually A16-A60), and A-List Preferred members receive a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding position. Both tiers also get bonus points and other travel benefits.
How to earn: Earn status by flying a certain number of qualifying flights or earning tier qualifying points within a calendar year.
Step 5: Day of Travel – Using Your Boarding Pass
Security Checkpoint: Present your physical or mobile boarding pass along with your valid photo ID to the TSA agent. They will scan your boarding pass.
At the Gate: Keep an eye on the monitors for boarding announcements. When your group is called, proceed to the numbered poles (1-60) corresponding to your boarding position. Line up between the two poles that encompass your number.
Boarding the Aircraft: When your specific position is called (e.g., "A1 through A15, you may now board"), present your boarding pass to the gate agent for scanning and proceed onto the plane to choose your seat!
10 Related FAQ Questions about Southwest Boarding Passes
Here are some common questions about Southwest Airlines boarding passes, with quick answers to help you on your way:
How to get an A boarding position on Southwest without paying extra?
To maximize your chances of an A boarding position without paying for EarlyBird or Business Select, check in exactly 24 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure time as soon as online check-in opens.
How to get a mobile boarding pass for Southwest Airlines?
Check in via the Southwest Airlines mobile app (available for iOS and Android) or the mobile website. After checking in, tap the "Boarding Pass" button and you can save it to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay for easy access.
How to print a Southwest boarding pass at the airport?
You can print your Southwest boarding pass at a self-service kiosk by entering your confirmation number, or by visiting the Southwest Airlines ticket counter and speaking with an agent.
How to retrieve a lost Southwest boarding pass?
If you've lost a printed boarding pass, you can re-access your reservation on Southwest.com or the mobile app using your confirmation number and last name to retrieve or re-print it. If you've already boarded, you typically won't need it.
How to check in for Southwest international flights and get a boarding pass?
The check-in process is largely the same (online, mobile, or airport) for international flights. However, for international travel, you may be required to show your physical passport and other necessary travel documents at the ticket counter or gate, even if you have a mobile boarding pass. Some international itineraries may not support mobile boarding passes, requiring airport check-in.
How to get a boarding pass for a Southwest connecting flight?
When you check in for your first flight on Southwest, you will automatically be checked in for your connecting flight(s) on the same reservation. You'll receive boarding passes for all segments at that time.
How to get a boarding pass for an infant on Southwest Airlines?
For lap children (under 2 years old not occupying a seat), a boarding pass is not required. However, you will need a Boarding Verification Document, which can be obtained after online check-in or at the airport. You'll need proof of age (birth certificate, passport, etc.).
How to get a boarding pass for an unaccompanied minor on Southwest Airlines?
Unaccompanied Minors (ages 5-11) cannot use mobile check-in. The responsible adult must check them in at the airport ticket counter to obtain a gate pass to escort the child to the gate, where the child will receive their special Unaccompanied Minor lanyard/boarding pass.
How to get an early boarding position on Southwest Airlines?
The best ways to get an early boarding position are to purchase Business Select fares (guaranteed A1-15), purchase EarlyBird Check-In (automatic check-in 36 hours prior), or hold Rapid Rewards A-List or A-List Preferred status.
How to find your boarding group and position on your Southwest boarding pass?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position number (1-60) are clearly printed on your Southwest boarding pass, typically near the top or center of the document.
