Unlock a Smoother Journey: Your Comprehensive Guide to Getting Extra Time on Southwest Airlines
Ever felt the rush of boarding, trying to settle in amidst the flurry of fellow passengers? For many, especially those with specific needs, the standard boarding process can be a source of stress rather than excitement. But what if you could have a little extra time? On Southwest Airlines, known for its unique open seating policy (though that is changing to assigned seating starting in early 2026), there are indeed ways to ensure a more relaxed and accommodating boarding experience. This lengthy guide will walk you through the proper step-by-step process, ensuring you're well-equipped for a stress-free journey.
Ready to discover how to make your next Southwest flight truly comfortable? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Understand Why You Might Need Extra Time
Before we get into the "how," it's crucial to understand the various reasons why someone might genuinely benefit from extra time during boarding. Southwest Airlines, like all carriers, operates under federal regulations (specifically the Air Carrier Access Act, or ACAA) to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This means they are committed to ensuring an accessible and comfortable travel experience for everyone.
Sub-heading: Common Reasons for Needing Extra Time
Mobility Impairments: This is perhaps the most common reason. If you use a wheelchair, walker, crutches, or have difficulty walking long distances or navigating the aisle, extra time allows you to board at your own pace and settle into your seat without feeling rushed.
Cognitive or Developmental Disabilities: Passengers with cognitive or developmental disabilities may require more time to process information, follow instructions, or simply adjust to the environment. Extra time can significantly reduce anxiety and provide a smoother transition onto the aircraft.
Visual or Hearing Impairments: While not directly related to mobility, those with visual or hearing impairments might need extra time to orient themselves, receive assistance with finding their seat, or communicate their needs to the crew.
Traveling with Assistive Devices: Whether it's a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), a medical device, or other specialized equipment, extra time ensures you can properly stow and set up your device without impeding other passengers.
Specific Seating Needs: Some disabilities require a specific type of seat for comfort or accessibility (e.g., an aisle seat for easier restroom access). Extra time helps secure these seats, especially on Southwest's open-seating flights (before the 2026 change).
Unforeseen Circumstances or Anxiety: Even without a formally recognized disability, some individuals experience significant anxiety during boarding or might have temporary conditions that make rushing difficult. While not always a direct qualifier for preboarding, understanding your needs can help you advocate for extra time or explore other options.
Step 2: Knowing Your Options: Preboarding vs. Extra Time Boarding
Southwest Airlines offers two primary ways to get a head start on boarding, depending on your specific needs: Preboarding and Extra Time Boarding (XT). It's vital to understand the distinction between these two, as they have different qualifications and procedures.
Sub-heading: Preboarding (PRBD)
Who Qualifies: Preboarding is for Customers with disabilities who:
Need a specific seat to accommodate a disability (e.g., an aisle seat for easier transfer, or a seat that allows proper stowage of an assistive device).
Need assistance boarding the aircraft (e.g., transfer from a wheelchair to a seat, or significant help navigating the aisle).
Need to stow an assistive device (e.g., a collapsible wheelchair, crutches, or a POC that needs to be properly stowed).
The Process:
Speak to a Customer Service Agent: Upon arrival at the airport, head to the Southwest ticket counter or the departure gate counter. Inform a Customer Service Agent that you require preboarding.
Fact-Finding Questions: The agent will ask "fact-finding questions" to determine if you meet the qualifications for preboarding. These questions are designed to understand your specific needs without requiring medical proof of disability (federal law prohibits airlines from demanding this).
New Boarding Pass: If you qualify, you will receive a new boarding pass marked with "PRBD" (Preboard). This designation signals to the Operations Agent at the boarding gate that you are authorized to preboard.
Companion Policy: One travel companion may preboard with you. If you feel you need an exception to this for additional companions, discuss your needs with the Customer Service Agent at the gate when requesting preboarding.
Seating Restrictions: Passengers who preboard cannot occupy an emergency exit row seat due to safety regulations.
Early Boarding for POC Users: If you're using an approved Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) inflight, Southwest strongly suggests that you preboard to secure an aircraft seat that meets safety requirements (closer to the window).
Sub-heading: Extra Time Boarding (XT)
Who Qualifies: This option is for Customers with disabilities who simply need a little extra time to board or be seated, but do not qualify for preboarding (i.e., they don't need a specific seat, significant assistance boarding, or to stow a large assistive device).
The Process:
Speak to a Customer Service Agent: Similar to preboarding, approach a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate.
New Boarding Pass: If you qualify for extra time boarding, the agent will provide you with a new boarding pass marked with "XT".
Boarding Position: Passengers with an "XT" designation board between the "A" and "B" groups, before Family Boarding. This allows you to avoid the main rush of the B and C groups, providing a more relaxed boarding experience.
Step 3: Proactive Planning: When to Request and What to Prepare
While Southwest aims to accommodate on the spot, being proactive can make the process even smoother.
Sub-heading: Ideal Timing for Your Request
At the Airport: The most common and recommended way to request extra time or preboarding is in person at the airport. This allows for direct communication with a Southwest Customer Service Agent who can assess your needs and provide the appropriate boarding pass.
Ticket Counter: If you arrive early, stop by the ticket counter after checking your bags.
Departure Gate: If you're running closer to boarding time, head directly to your departure gate and speak with the agent there.
Well Before Departure: While you cannot formally reserve preboarding or XT online in advance, you can indicate your need for assistance when managing your reservation online. This can help alert Southwest to your needs, though you will still need to speak with an agent at the airport to receive the special boarding pass.
Calling Customer Service (for information, not direct booking of extra time): If you have specific questions about your particular situation before heading to the airport, you can call Southwest Airlines Customer Service. They can provide guidance on policies and procedures.
Sub-heading: What to Have Ready
Your Flight Information: Have your flight number and confirmation code readily available.
Clearly State Your Needs: Be prepared to clearly and concisely explain why you need extra time. Focus on the functional reason (e.g., "I need extra time to get down the aisle because I use a cane and walk slowly," or "I need a specific seat for my medical device"). Remember, they cannot ask for medical proof.
Assistive Devices: If you're using an assistive device, have it with you and ready to be assessed by the agent if necessary.
Step 4: Navigating the Airport and Boarding Process
Once you have your special boarding pass, here's how to ensure a smooth journey through the airport and onto the plane.
Sub-heading: Airport Navigation with Assistance
Wheelchair Assistance: If you need wheelchair assistance to get from the curb to your gate, or between connecting flights, notify a Southwest Employee or Skycap upon arrival. They are required to provide this assistance, including helping you access key functional areas like ticket counters and baggage claim.
Escort and Navigation Assistance: For Customers with cognitive or developmental disabilities, escort and navigation assistance is available from the airport curb to and from gates and between gates for connecting flights. Remember to self-identify at all points of travel.
Security Checkpoint: While extra time is typically for boarding the aircraft, if you anticipate needing additional time or assistance navigating the security checkpoint, you can inform the TSA agents. Many airports have dedicated lines or assistance for passengers with disabilities.
Sub-heading: Boarding the Aircraft
Listen for Announcements: Pay close attention to the gate agent's announcements. They will call for preboarding and then for "XT" (extra time) boarding at the appropriate times.
Present Your Special Boarding Pass: When your group is called, present your "PRBD" or "XT" boarding pass to the Operations Agent. They will understand the designation and allow you to board.
Utilize Your Time: Once onboard, take your time to find your seat and get settled. Stow your carry-on items, secure any assistive devices, and ensure you're comfortable before the general boarding process begins.
Communicate with Flight Attendants: If you have any specific needs during the flight (e.g., assistance with the lavatory, needing your assistive device during the flight), communicate these to a Flight Attendant once you are seated. They are there to help.
Step 5: Post-Flight Considerations
Your journey doesn't end when the plane lands. Consider these points for a seamless arrival.
Sub-heading: Deplaning and Airport Exit
Take Your Time: Just as with boarding, you are not required to rush off the plane. Wait until the aisle clears sufficiently for you to deplane comfortably.
Request Assistance: If you need assistance deplaning or navigating the arrival airport (e.g., wheelchair assistance to baggage claim or ground transportation), inform a Flight Attendant before landing or upon arrival. They will arrange for assistance to meet you at the gate.
Connecting Flights: If you have a connecting flight, ensure you understand the process for receiving assistance to your next gate if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions starting with 'How to' with quick answers:
How to request preboarding on Southwest Airlines?
Speak to a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate and explain your need for a specific seat, assistance boarding, or stowing an assistive device due to a disability.
How to get extra time boarding (XT) if I don't qualify for preboarding?
Inform a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate that you need a little extra time to board and settle, and they can provide an "XT" boarding pass.
How to ensure my companion boards with me if I preboard?
One travel companion is generally allowed to preboard with you. Discuss any exceptions for additional companions with the Customer Service Agent at the gate.
How to bring a Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) on Southwest Airlines?
Your POC must be an approved model and used in battery-operated mode with sufficient battery life (150% of flight duration). See a Customer Service Agent at the airport to verify the device and get an indicator on your boarding pass. Preboarding is recommended.
How to request wheelchair assistance at the airport?
Notify a Southwest Employee or Skycap upon arrival at the airport (curbside, ticket counter) or by speaking with a Flight Attendant before landing.
How to inform Southwest about a cognitive or developmental disability for assistance?
Self-identify your needs to a Southwest Employee upon arrival at the airport, onboard the aircraft, during connections, and upon arrival at your destination. Escort and navigation assistance is available.
How to travel with a service animal on Southwest Airlines?
Only fully trained service dogs are accepted. You'll need to present a completed U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation form at the ticket counter or gate on the day of travel.
How to get a specific seat if I have a disability on Southwest's open seating flights (before 2026)?
Request preboarding, as this allows you to board early and select a seat that accommodates your disability. Remember, exit rows are not permitted.
How to find information on Southwest Airlines' disability policies?
Visit the "Accessible Travel Assistance" section of the Southwest Airlines website or contact their Customer Service for detailed information.
How to complain if I feel my disability rights were violated on a Southwest flight?
You can contact the U.S. Department of Transportation's Aviation Consumer Protection Division online (airconsumer.ost.dot.gov) or by mail. Southwest also has Customer Relations staff trained as Complaint Resolution Officials (CROs) who can assist.
