Choosing Your Ideal Seat on Southwest Airlines: A Comprehensive Guide
Have you ever boarded a plane, looked around, and wished you had a better seat? On Southwest Airlines, with its unique open seating policy, that feeling can be amplified! But don't despair – while there are no assigned seats, there are definitely strategies to help you snag the best spot for your travel needs. This extensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to master the Southwest seating game.
Ready to become a Southwest seating pro? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understanding Southwest's Unique Boarding Process
The first and most crucial step to choosing your seat on Southwest is to understand how they board their planes. Unlike most airlines that assign you a specific seat number at booking, Southwest operates on an "open seating" policy. This means you pick your seat once you're on the aircraft. Your ability to choose depends almost entirely on your boarding position.
The ABCs of Boarding: Southwest divides passengers into three boarding groups: A, B, and C. Within each group, you'll have a number from 1 to 60 (e.g., A1, A15, B30, C45).
The Line-Up: At the gate, you'll see numbered poles or markings where passengers line up according to their group and number. Group A boards first, then Group B, and finally Group C.
First Come, First Served (onboard): Once your group is called and you're on the plane, it's a free-for-all! You can pick any available seat. The earlier you board, the more choices you have.
Step 2: Maximizing Your Boarding Position – The Key to Seat Selection
Since your boarding position dictates your seat choices, this is where you need to focus your efforts. There are several ways to improve your boarding group and number.
Sub-heading: Checking in at the Right Time
This is the most common and free way to influence your boarding position.
The 24-Hour Alarm: Southwest opens check-in exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. Set an alarm on your phone! Being among the first to check in when the window opens can significantly improve your chances of getting an A or early B boarding position.
Don't Be Late: Even a few minutes can make a difference, especially on popular routes. The sooner you check in, the lower your number will be within your assigned group.
Sub-heading: Investing in EarlyBird Check-In
For those who prioritize convenience and a better seat, EarlyBird Check-In is a popular paid option.
What it Is: EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight. This is before the general 24-hour check-in window opens, giving you a head start.
How it Works: Southwest processes EarlyBird Check-In purchases based on the time they were bought and your fare type. So, buying it earlier is better.
Cost and Benefits: The cost varies by flight ($15-$99 per person, per one-way flight), but it often secures you an A or early B boarding position, increasing your chances of getting your preferred seat and overhead bin space. It's especially useful for families or groups who want to sit together.
Considerations: While it doesn't guarantee an "A" position, it significantly increases your odds. It's often worth it for longer flights or if you have specific seating needs.
Sub-heading: Achieving Elite Status (A-List/A-List Preferred)
For frequent Southwest flyers, elite status offers significant boarding advantages.
A-List Benefits: A-List members (earned by flying 20 qualifying one-way flights or earning 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year) and everyone on their reservation receive priority boarding. Their boarding positions are automatically reserved 36 hours prior to the flight.
A-List Preferred Benefits: A-List Preferred members (40 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 tier qualifying points) get even higher priority, often securing A1-A15 positions, and also enjoy perks like free in-flight internet.
The Ultimate Advantage: If you have A-List or A-List Preferred status, you typically don't need to worry about the 24-hour check-in rush or buying EarlyBird Check-In. Your boarding position is pretty much guaranteed to be excellent.
Sub-heading: Purchasing Business Select Fares
Business Select is Southwest's highest fare class, offering premium benefits.
Guaranteed A1-A15: Business Select fares automatically guarantee you an A1-A15 boarding position, providing the earliest access to the aircraft and widest selection of seats.
Other Perks: These fares also include a free premium drink and more Rapid Rewards points. This is the most expensive option, but for business travelers or those who absolutely need a specific seat, it's the most reliable way to get a top boarding spot.
Sub-heading: Upgraded Boarding at the Gate
If you missed out on EarlyBird or didn't get a great boarding pass, there's still a chance!
Last-Minute Opportunity: Subject to availability, you can purchase an Upgraded Boarding position (A1-A15) at the gate or through the Southwest app or website starting 24 hours before departure.
Cost and Availability: The cost varies (starting from $30 per segment, per customer), and it's not always available, especially on full flights. It's a gamble, but can be a lifesaver if you're stuck with a C group.
Step 3: Strategic Onboard Seat Selection – Where to Aim
Once you have your boarding position and step onto the plane, it's time for the actual seat selection. Here's how to strategize:
Sub-heading: Window, Aisle, or Middle?
Consider your personal preference and needs.
Window Seat: Great for views, especially if you're flying over scenic areas. Also ideal if you plan to sleep or don't want to be disturbed. However, you'll need to ask people to move if you need to use the restroom.
Aisle Seat: Perfect for easy access to the lavatory, stretching your legs, or getting off the plane quickly. Be prepared for potential bumps from passengers or flight attendants moving down the aisle.
Middle Seat: Often the least desirable, but sometimes unavoidable. Aim for this only if you're traveling with companions and want to sit together, or if you're in a late boarding group and it's all that's left.
Sub-heading: Front, Middle, or Back?
The location within the cabin impacts your experience.
Front of the Plane: Generally the first to deplane, which is great if you have a tight connection or are in a hurry. Often the first to get beverage service. These seats tend to fill up quickly.
Over the Wing (Middle of the Plane): These seats often offer the smoothest ride as they are closer to the plane's center of gravity, making turbulence less noticeable.
Back of the Plane: Often the last to deplane, but frequently where you'll find the most open seats. If you're in a later boarding group, heading straight to the back can increase your chances of finding a window or aisle seat, or even an empty row. This is also a good strategy if you're flying with young children and want to be closer to the lavatories or have a bit more space.
Sub-heading: Specific Seat Considerations
Think about what matters most to you.
Legroom: While Southwest is known for its single cabin, they do have some "Extra Legroom" seats available now, typically in the front of the cabin and near exit rows. If you purchase a "Choice Extra" fare, you can select these. Otherwise, keep an eye out for exit rows – but remember, you'll need to be able to assist in an emergency.
Recline: Be aware that some seats do not recline, typically the row directly in front of an exit row, and the very last row of the plane. If reclining is important to you, avoid these rows.
Proximity to Lavatories/Galley: Seats near the lavatories can be noisy and have a lot of foot traffic. Seats near the galley can be noisy due to flight attendant activity. If peace and quiet are a priority, avoid these.
Traveling with a Group/Family: If you're traveling with others and want to sit together, the earlier your boarding position, the better. If you're in a later group, your best bet might be to head to the back of the plane where more multiple-seat options may exist. Remember Southwest's Family Boarding policy (see FAQ below) for those with young children.
Step 4: The Boarding Experience – Execution is Key
Once your boarding group is called, it's time to put your strategy into action.
Line Up Promptly: Don't wait until the last minute. Be in your designated boarding position when your group is called.
Walk Confidently: When you get on the plane, walk with purpose towards your desired section.
Scan for Openings: Quickly scan rows for your preferred seat type (window, aisle, or even an empty middle if you're trying to snag a whole row).
Politely Claim Your Spot: Place your carry-on in the overhead bin and settle into your chosen seat. If you're trying to save a seat for a companion, you can place a personal item on it, but be prepared for a polite discussion if someone wants that seat. Southwest's official stance does not encourage seat saving, but it's a common practice.
Step 5: Being Prepared for the Unexpected
Even with the best strategy, sometimes things don't go as planned.
Full Flights: On very full flights, seat options will be limited, especially for later boarding groups. Be prepared to take a middle seat if necessary.
Flight Delays/Changes: If your flight is delayed or you have a last-minute change, your boarding position might be affected. Stay flexible and adapt your strategy.
Ask for Help (If Needed): If you have specific needs (e.g., a disability, traveling with a lap infant and truly need to sit next to an adult), don't hesitate to speak to a gate agent or flight attendant. They will do their best to assist you.
By following these steps and understanding Southwest's unique system, you'll significantly improve your chances of enjoying a comfortable and stress-free flight, exactly where you want to be. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get an A group boarding pass on Southwest? To get an A group boarding pass, you can purchase a Business Select fare, purchase EarlyBird Check-In (which automatically checks you in 36 hours prior), achieve A-List or A-List Preferred elite status, or check in exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time.
How to sit with family on Southwest if you have different boarding groups? If you have different boarding groups, the best strategy is for the person with the earliest boarding position to board first and politely save seats for the rest of the family (e.g., by placing personal items on the seats). Families with children aged six or younger can also utilize Family Boarding, which occurs after the A group has boarded.
How to choose a seat with extra legroom on Southwest? Southwest now offers "Extra Legroom" seats, typically located in the front of the cabin and near exit rows. You can select these seats if you purchase a "Choice Extra" fare. Otherwise, if you have an early boarding position, you can try to select an exit row seat, provided you meet the safety requirements.
How to avoid the middle seat on Southwest? To avoid the middle seat, aim for an early boarding position (A or early B group) by checking in exactly 24 hours prior, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or buying a Business Select fare. Once on board, head towards the back of the plane, as window and aisle seats are often available there later in the boarding process.
How to check in for Southwest Airlines to get a good boarding position? The most effective way to check in for Southwest to get a good boarding position (without paying) is to do so exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. Set an alarm and be ready to hit the "check in" button right when the window opens.
How to change your boarding position on Southwest? Your boarding position is assigned at check-in. You cannot directly "change" it once assigned. However, you can improve it by purchasing EarlyBird Check-In (if available) before the 24-hour mark, or by purchasing Upgraded Boarding at the gate or via the app within 24 hours of departure (subject to availability).
How to board Southwest Airlines with a disability or special needs? Passengers with disabilities or special needs can request pre-boarding. Inform a Southwest Employee at the airport upon arrival, and they will assist you. You are typically allowed to pre-board before the A group.
How to know if your Southwest flight has recliner seats? Generally, most seats on Southwest Boeing 737-700, 737-800, and 737 MAX 8 aircraft offer recline. However, the last row and the row directly in front of the exit rows typically do not recline. You can often find seat maps on sites like SeatGuru (though Southwest's open seating means you won't pre-select a seat number).
How to get the best window seat on Southwest for views? For the best views, aim for an early boarding position (A group is ideal). Once on board, look for a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views, or over the wing for a smoother ride, though the wing will partially obscure ground views.
How to save a seat for someone on Southwest? While Southwest's official policy doesn't explicitly endorse seat saving, it's a common practice. If you board early, you can place a personal item (like a jacket or small bag) on an adjacent seat to indicate it's taken. Be prepared to politely explain to other passengers that you are saving the seat for a companion.
