Have you ever wondered how to navigate the unique boarding process of Southwest Airlines and snag the best seat for your flight? Unlike most airlines that assign you a specific seat when you book, Southwest operates on an open seating policy. This means that once you board the plane, you can choose any available seat! While this offers incredible flexibility, it also means that getting a good seat often comes down to your boarding position.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of securing your ideal spot on a Southwest flight, from understanding their unique system to leveraging various options for a better boarding experience.
Understanding Southwest's Open Seating and Boarding Process
Southwest Airlines famously doesn't assign seats. Instead, they utilize a "boarding group" and "position" system. When you check in for your flight, you'll be assigned a boarding pass with a letter (A, B, or C) and a number (1-60). This combination dictates when you'll get to board the plane.
Group A (A1-A60): These are the first passengers to board, giving them the widest selection of seats.
Group B (B1-B60): Board after Group A. You'll still have a good chance of finding a desirable window or aisle seat, but options may be more limited.
Group C (C1-C60+): These are the last to board, typically leaving only middle seats or seats in the very back of the plane.
The earlier you board, the more choices you have!
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| How Do You Get Seat Assignments On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Secure Your Boarding Position – The Key to Your Seat!
The single most critical factor in getting a good seat on Southwest is your boarding position. Here's how to ensure you get the best possible one:
Sub-heading 1.1: The 24-Hour Check-In Dash
The standard way to get your boarding position is by checking in online.
When to Act: Online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This is a crucial window!
Be Ready: Set an alarm, mark your calendar, and be prepared to check in right at the 24-hour mark. Even a few minutes can make a difference in your boarding group.
How to Check In:
Visit the Southwest Airlines website (Southwest.com) or use the Southwest Airlines mobile app.
Select the "Check In" option.
Enter your confirmation number, first name, and last name.
Click "Check In" to retrieve your boarding pass with your assigned group and position.
Pro-Tip: The closer you check in to the 24-hour mark, the higher your chances of securing an "A" or early "B" boarding position, which translates to a better seat selection.
Sub-heading 1.2: Investing in EarlyBird Check-In (Optional but Recommended)
Don't want to worry about the 24-hour check-in scramble? Southwest offers a convenient add-on called EarlyBird Check-In.
What it is: EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in and assigns your boarding position before the general 24-hour check-in window opens. This typically happens within 36 hours of departure.
Benefits: You'll receive an earlier boarding position, significantly increasing your chances of getting your preferred seat and access to overhead bin space. This is especially useful for those who want a window or aisle seat, or if you're traveling with companions and want to sit together.
Cost: EarlyBird Check-In varies in price, typically ranging from $15 to $99 per person, per one-way flight, depending on the route.
How to Purchase: You can purchase EarlyBird Check-In at the time of booking your flight or add it later to your reservation up to 26 hours before your flight's scheduled local departure time. Availability is limited, so purchasing it earlier is always better.
Consider this option if: * You highly value seat selection. * You are traveling with a group and want to sit together. * You want to reduce stress on travel day.
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Sub-heading 1.3: Upgraded Boarding for Top-Tier Access
For the absolute best boarding positions (A1-A15), you might consider Upgraded Boarding.
What it is: Upgraded Boarding allows you to purchase a spot in the coveted A1-A15 boarding group, if available.
When to Purchase: This option is available for purchase starting 24 hours before your flight and up to 30 minutes before departure. You can usually buy it at the self-service kiosk or the gate.
Cost: The cost varies by flight, but it's typically more expensive than EarlyBird Check-In.
Benefits: Guarantees you one of the first 15 spots on the plane, offering the absolute best seat selection and overhead bin access.
Who it's for: Ideal for business travelers, those needing specific seats for comfort, or anyone who simply wants to be first on board.
Sub-heading 1.4: Leveraging Elite Status (Rapid Rewards A-List/A-List Preferred)
If you're a frequent Southwest flyer, your Rapid Rewards elite status can significantly improve your boarding experience.
A-List and A-List Preferred: Members with these statuses automatically receive priority boarding. Southwest will automatically reserve your boarding position 36 hours before departure, often landing you in an early "A" or "B" group.
Benefits: You don't need to purchase EarlyBird Check-In, as you'll automatically get a good position.
Step 2: Strategic Boarding at the Gate
Once you have your boarding pass and know your group and position, the next step is the boarding process at the gate.
Sub-heading 2.1: Lining Up – The Numbered Poles
Southwest uses numbered poles at the gate to organize passengers.
Find Your Spot: Look for the poles labeled with your boarding group (A, B, or C) and your specific position range (e.g., A1-A30, A31-A60).
Be On Time: When your group is called, find your designated place in line. Don't be late! If you miss your group, you'll board with a later group, potentially limiting your seat choices.
Sub-heading 2.2: The Boarding Order
The boarding order generally follows this sequence:
Preboarding: This is for customers with disabilities who need a specific seat, assistance boarding, or need to stow an assistive device. A Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or gate can assist with this. Only one companion may preboard with the customer.
Upgraded Boarding (A1-A15): Passengers who purchased Upgraded Boarding or Business Select fares.
A Group (A16-A60): General boarding for the rest of the A group, including A-List/A-List Preferred members and those with EarlyBird Check-In.
Customers Needing Extra Time (XT): Passengers with disabilities who do not qualify for preboarding but need a little extra time to board.
Family Boarding: Up to two adults traveling with a child aged six years old or younger may board during this time, which occurs after the "A" group has boarded and before the "B" group begins. This helps ensure families can sit together.
B Group (B1-B60): General boarding for the B group.
C Group (C1-C60+): General boarding for the C group.
Important Note: While Family Boarding is a great perk, if your entire family has "A" boarding passes (e.g., due to EarlyBird Check-In), you should board in your assigned "A" positions rather than waiting for Family Boarding to maximize your seat choices.
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
Step 3: Choosing Your Seat Onboard
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Once you're on the plane, the fun begins – choosing your seat!
Sub-heading 3.1: Scan for Your Ideal Spot
Window or Aisle? If you have an early boarding position, you'll have your pick of window or aisle seats.
Legroom: The bulkhead (first row) and exit rows offer more legroom. However, remember that exit row seats have specific requirements (e.g., you must be able to assist in an emergency), and preboarding passengers cannot occupy exit seats.
Quieter Zones: Seats over the wings tend to experience less turbulence. The front of the plane can sometimes be quieter.
Traveling Together: If you're with companions, look for rows with multiple open seats. Don't be shy about asking if someone can shift over to accommodate your group if you see a combination of open aisle and window seats with a middle seat in between. Most people are understanding.
The Back of the Plane: If you have a later boarding position, don't despair! Often, passengers fill the front of the plane first, leaving more options towards the back. You might even find an empty middle seat if the flight isn't completely full.
Sub-heading 3.2: Be Courteous and Efficient
Stow Your Carry-On: Quickly find an overhead bin near your chosen seat for your carry-on luggage.
Avoid "Saving" Seats: Southwest's policy is open seating. While some people try to "save" seats for companions, it's generally frowned upon and not permitted. If you need a seat, you're entitled to an open one.
Ask for Help: If you have special needs or require assistance, don't hesitate to speak with a Southwest Flight Attendant. They are there to help ensure everyone is seated safely and comfortably.
Step 4: Special Circumstances and Considerations
Southwest has policies in place for various passenger needs.
Sub-heading 4.1: Traveling with Children
Family Boarding: As mentioned, families with a child aged six or younger can board during Family Boarding (after the "A" group and before the "B" group). This helps ensure that the child can sit next to at least one accompanying adult.
Assistance for Older Children: If you're traveling with a child aged seven to 13 and need assistance seating them next to an accompanying passenger (14 or older), you can speak to a Gate Agent or Flight Attendant.
Sub-heading 4.2: Passengers with Disabilities
Preboarding: Customers with disabilities who require a specific seat, assistance boarding, or need to stow an assistive device may preboard. Speak with a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or gate to determine if you qualify.
Extra Time (XT) Boarding: If you don't qualify for preboarding but need a little extra time to board or get settled, you can request an "XT" boarding pass from a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or gate, allowing you to board between the "A" and "B" groups (before Family Boarding).
Sub-heading 4.3: Customers of Size
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Southwest has a "Customers of Size" policy to ensure safe and comfortable seating for all passengers.
Purchasing an Extra Seat: If you anticipate needing more than one seat (e.g., if you cannot lower the armrest between seats), Southwest encourages you to proactively purchase an additional seat.
Refund for Extra Seat: If you purchase an additional seat for comfort, you can request a refund for that extra seat after travel is complete.
Gate Assistance: If you arrive at the airport without having purchased an extra seat, discuss your seating needs with a Customer Service Agent at the departure gate. If a second seat is needed and available, you may be accommodated with a complimentary additional seat.
FAQs: Your Quick Guide to Southwest Seat Assignments
Here are 10 common questions about Southwest Airlines seat assignments, with quick answers:
How to get the best seat on Southwest Airlines?
The best way is to secure an early boarding position (A1-A15) by purchasing Business Select, Upgraded Boarding, or by being an A-List/A-List Preferred member. Otherwise, check in exactly 24 hours before your flight.
How to guarantee a window or aisle seat on Southwest?
You cannot guarantee a specific seat, but getting an early boarding position (especially A1-A15) gives you the highest chance of choosing a window or aisle seat.
How to use EarlyBird Check-In for Southwest?
Purchase EarlyBird Check-In when booking your flight or add it to your reservation up to 26 hours before departure. Southwest will automatically check you in for an earlier boarding position.
How to get a better boarding position on Southwest without paying extra?
Check in online precisely 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position will be.
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How to board with family on Southwest?
If you're traveling with a child aged six or younger, up to two adults can utilize Family Boarding, which occurs after Group A has boarded and before Group B.
How to get extra legroom on Southwest?
Aim for an early boarding position (A1-A30) to have the best chance of selecting a bulkhead seat (first row) or an exit row seat, which offer more legroom.
How to check in for Southwest flights?
You can check in online at Southwest.com or via the Southwest mobile app starting 24 hours before your flight. You'll need your confirmation number, first name, and last name.
How to find out your Southwest boarding group and position?
Your boarding group (A, B, or C) and position (1-60) will be displayed on your boarding pass once you have checked in for your flight.
How to get assistance with seating on Southwest if you have a disability?
Speak with a Customer Service Agent at the ticket counter or departure gate to inquire about preboarding or "extra time" boarding options based on your specific needs.
How to sit together on Southwest with a large group?
The best strategy is for everyone in your group to get the earliest possible boarding positions (e.g., by checking in exactly 24 hours in advance or purchasing EarlyBird Check-In). Once on board, head towards the back of the plane, where you might find more open rows.
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