Have you ever found yourself wondering, "Just how big are the seats on Southwest Airlines, anyway?" Perhaps you're planning a trip and trying to envision your comfort level, or maybe you've heard whispers about different seat types and want to get the full scoop. Well, you're in the right place! Southwest Airlines, known for its unique open seating policy and two free checked bags, has a fleet primarily consisting of Boeing 737 aircraft, and understanding their seat dimensions can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Let's dive deep into the world of Southwest seating, with a step-by-step guide to understanding what to expect.
Step 1: Engage Your Inner Traveler - What's Your Priority?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty numbers, let's take a moment. What's most important to you when it comes to airplane seating? Are you someone who prioritizes legroom above all else, even if it means sacrificing a tiny bit of width? Or perhaps seat width is your ultimate concern, ensuring you don't feel too squeezed in? Maybe you're a customer of size and need to understand the airline's policy for additional seating. Knowing your priorities will help you navigate the information below and make the most informed choices for your next Southwest flight.
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| How Big Are The Seats On Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding the Key Metrics of Airplane Seats
When discussing airplane seats, two primary measurements come into play:
Sub-heading: Seat Pitch
Seat pitch is the distance from any point on a seat to the same point on the seat directly in front of it. Think of it as the amount of space between your seat and the seat in front of you. A larger seat pitch generally means more legroom.
Sub-heading: Seat Width
Seat width is, quite simply, the measurement from armrest to armrest. This directly impacts how much "side-to-side" space you have.
Step 3: Decoding Southwest's Fleet and Seat Dimensions
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
Southwest Airlines operates a fleet entirely composed of Boeing 737 aircraft, but there are different models within that fleet, and their seat dimensions can vary slightly. It's important to note that Southwest is also in the process of retrofitting its cabins, which may introduce some variations.
Sub-heading: Boeing 737-700
Seat Pitch: Approximately 31 inches (standard). Some sources indicate older 737-700s might have had 32 inches, but 31 inches is more common for current configurations.
Seat Width: Around 17 inches.
Capacity: Typically 143 passengers.
Notable Features: These aircraft may feature the "Evolve" interior. Some seats in these planes might have limited recline (around 2 inches).
Sub-heading: Boeing 737-800
Seat Pitch: Generally 32 inches, with some variations up to 33 inches.
Seat Width: Approximately 17 inches to 17.8 inches.
Capacity: Typically 175 passengers.
Notable Features: These aircraft often have the "Heart" interior or the newer "Sky Interior" which can offer a more open feel. They are generally considered to have slightly more legroom than the 737-700s.
Sub-heading: Boeing 737 MAX 8
Seat Pitch: Typically 32 inches to 33 inches.
Seat Width: Around 17.8 inches.
Capacity: Typically 175 passengers.
Notable Features: The 737 MAX 8 aircraft are among the newest in Southwest's fleet. They often feature Boeing's Sky Interior with larger overhead bins and may include USB A & C charging ports (new deliveries have them, and older ones are being retrofitted). Many passengers find these seats to be more comfortable than older models due to newer slimline designs, even with similar measurements.
Step 4: Special Seating Considerations and Policies
Southwest's open seating policy means you choose your seat upon boarding, which can be an advantage if you know where to look for more space.
Sub-heading: Exit Row Seats
These seats typically offer the most legroom on Southwest flights. If you prioritize stretching out, aim for an exit row. Remember, you must meet certain requirements (e.g., be able to operate the exit door, be at least 15 years old) to sit in an exit row.
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Sub-heading: Bulkhead Seats
The first row of seats behind a bulkhead (a dividing wall) can also offer increased legroom as there's no seat in front of you. However, keep in mind that armrests in bulkhead rows are often fixed (non-movable) as they contain the tray tables, which can make the seat feel slightly narrower. Also, there's no under-seat storage in front of you.
Sub-heading: Aisle vs. Window vs. Middle
Aisle Seats: Often provide the easiest access to the aisle and allow you to stretch your legs into the aisle (when clear). However, you're more susceptible to getting bumped by passing carts or people.
Window Seats: Offer a view and a wall to lean against. Some find them to be more private.
Middle Seats: Generally considered the least desirable due to being "squeezed" between two other passengers. If you're sensitive to seat width, try to avoid the middle seat if possible.
Sub-heading: Southwest's Customer of Size Policy
Southwest has a generous "Customer of Size" policy. If you believe you may encroach upon any part of the neighboring seat(s) (with the armrest considered the definitive boundary), you are encouraged to proactively purchase an additional seat prior to travel. If the flight isn't full, you can request a refund for the extra seat after your trip. If you arrive at the airport and haven't purchased an extra seat but need one, the Customer Service Agent can assist you, rebooking you on a later flight if the current one is full. This policy is designed to ensure comfort and safety for all passengers.
Step 5: Strategies for Maximizing Your Comfort
Even with standardized seat dimensions, there are ways to enhance your comfort on a Southwest flight:
Boarding Position Matters: Southwest's unique boarding process (A, B, C groups) means an earlier boarding position gives you a better chance to snag your preferred seat, especially exit rows or aisle seats. Consider upgrading to EarlyBird Check-In or Business Select for a better boarding group.
Choose Your Aircraft Wisely (If Possible): While you can't always guarantee your aircraft type, if you have flexibility, knowing which models generally offer slightly more space (like the 737-800 or MAX 8) can be helpful.
Utilize SeatGuru or AeroLOPA: Websites like SeatGuru and AeroLOPA provide detailed seat maps for specific aircraft types operated by airlines, including Southwest. You can look up your flight's aircraft model and see user reviews for individual seats, highlighting those with extra legroom, limited recline, or other quirks. This is a fantastic resource for planning!
Pack Smart: A smaller carry-on that fits easily under the seat in front of you can help maximize your personal foot space.
Dress Comfortably: Loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes will always make your journey more pleasant, regardless of seat size.
Conclusion
While Southwest Airlines' seats generally fall within the standard economy class range for narrow-body aircraft, understanding the slight variations between their Boeing 737 models and leveraging their open seating policy and customer-of-size program can significantly impact your comfort. By being informed about seat pitch and width, and knowing which seats offer more room, you can make your next Southwest flight as enjoyable as possible. Happy travels!
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to Find the Best Seats on Southwest Airlines for Legroom?
The best seats for legroom on Southwest Airlines are typically the exit row seats and the bulkhead seats (the first row of seats in the cabin).
How to Ensure You Get an Aisle Seat on Southwest?
To increase your chances of getting an aisle seat on Southwest, aim for an earlier boarding position. This can be achieved by checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or flying on a Business Select fare.
How to Know Which Boeing 737 Model Southwest is Using for Your Flight?
You can often find the specific Boeing 737 model for your flight on your itinerary details within the Southwest app or website, or by checking a site like FlightAware using your flight number closer to your travel date.
How to Request an Additional Seat on Southwest for a Customer of Size?
You should proactively purchase the needed number of seats prior to travel. You can contact Southwest Airlines' customer service for guidance on this process, and refunds for the additional seat may be available if the flight is not full.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
How to Get a Refund for an Extra Seat Purchased on Southwest?
If you purchased an additional seat due to being a customer of size and the flight was not full, you can request a refund for the extra seat after your trip through Southwest's customer service.
How to Make a Middle Seat More Comfortable on Southwest?
While challenging, you can make a middle seat more comfortable by minimizing your carry-on items under the seat in front, wearing comfortable clothing, and using a neck pillow to relax.
How to Recline Your Seat on Southwest Airlines?
Southwest seats generally have a limited recline (around 2 inches). There's usually a button on the armrest that you push to recline the seat back.
How to Know if Your Southwest Seat Will Have Power Outlets?
Newer Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft are being delivered with USB A & C charging ports, and these are being retrofitted onto existing MAX 8s. Older 737-700 and 737-800 models typically do not have power outlets at every seat.
How to Choose Your Seat on Southwest with Their Open Seating Policy?
With Southwest's open seating, you choose your seat once you board the aircraft. Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and boarding number determine when you get to board and, consequently, your selection opportunities.
How to Avoid Sitting Next to the Lavatories on Southwest?
To avoid sitting directly next to the lavatories, consult a seat map for the specific Boeing 737 model you're flying on (available on sites like SeatGuru or AeroLOPA) and aim for seats further away from the rear of the aircraft.
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