Ready to elevate your inflight experience from simply flying to flying connected? If you're planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and want to stay in touch, work, or simply browse the web from 30,000 feet, purchasing Wi-Fi is your ticket to seamless connectivity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of getting online with Southwest, from preparation to troubleshooting. Let's dive in!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines
Staying connected on a Southwest flight is surprisingly straightforward. While Southwest offers a fantastic array of free entertainment options, including live TV, movies, and messaging via iMessage and WhatsApp, full internet access for Browse, email, and social media requires a paid Wi-Fi purchase. Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare for Takeoff – Get Your Devices Ready!
Before you even step foot on the plane, a little preparation goes a long way. This initial step can save you time and frustration once you're airborne.
Sub-heading: Charge Up Your Gadgets
Ensure your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged. While some newer Southwest aircraft are being retrofitted with USB-A and USB-C power outlets, it's not a guarantee on every flight. A dead battery means no Wi-Fi!
Sub-heading: Download the Southwest Airlines App (Optional, but Recommended)
While not strictly necessary for basic Wi-Fi access, the Southwest Airlines mobile app is your gateway to their free Inflight Entertainment Portal. Downloading it beforehand means you can access movies, TV shows, and music without needing a paid Wi-Fi connection. Plus, the app can often guide you directly to the Wi-Fi portal.
Sub-heading: Familiarize Yourself with Airplane Mode
You'll need to enable Airplane Mode on your device once the cabin doors close. This is a standard safety procedure for all flights. Don't worry, you'll still be able to use Wi-Fi after enabling Airplane Mode.
Step 2: Boarding and Connecting – The Initial Link
Once you're settled in your seat, it's time to establish that initial connection to the Southwest Wi-Fi network.
Sub-heading: Engage Airplane Mode
As soon as you're instructed to do so by the cabin crew, switch your device to Airplane Mode. This will disable cellular data and Bluetooth, but allow you to selectively turn Wi-Fi back on.
Sub-heading: Select "SouthwestWiFi" from Your Network List
Go to your device's Wi-Fi settings. You should see a network named "SouthwestWiFi" (or something very similar). Tap on it to connect. You won't need a password for this initial connection.
Sub-heading: Access the Inflight Entertainment Portal
Once connected to the SouthwestWi-Fi network, your device should automatically open the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal in your web browser. If it doesn't, don't panic! Simply open your web browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge, etc.) and manually type in
Step 3: Navigating the Portal and Choosing Your Wi-Fi Option
The Inflight Entertainment Portal is your hub for all things entertainment and connectivity.
Sub-heading: Explore Free Entertainment First (Optional)
On the portal's homepage, you'll see options for free entertainment, including Live TV, on-demand movies, TV series, and free messaging (iMessage and WhatsApp). Feel free to browse these options. If all you need is messaging or entertainment, you might not even need to purchase full Wi-Fi!
Sub-heading: Locate the "Purchase Wi-Fi" Option
To get full internet access, look for a prominent button or link that says something like "Purchase Internet" or "Buy Wi-Fi." This will typically be clearly visible on the main page of the portal.
Step 4: Making Your Purchase – Getting Online
This is where you'll finalize your Wi-Fi purchase and gain full internet access.
Sub-heading: Understand the Cost
As of late 2024 and into 2025, Southwest Airlines typically charges $8 per device, per flight for full internet access from takeoff to landing. This means if you have a connecting flight, you'll need to purchase Wi-Fi again for each segment of your journey. Be mindful of this if you have multiple legs!
Sub-heading: Payment Methods
Southwest generally accepts major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) for inflight Wi-Fi purchases. You'll be prompted to enter your credit card details securely within the portal. Ensure you have your credit card handy.
Sub-heading: Confirm Your Purchase
After entering your payment information, you'll likely see a confirmation screen. Double-check the details before finalizing your purchase. Once confirmed, your device should gain full internet access.
Step 5: Enjoying Your Connection and Troubleshooting (If Needed)
You're online! Now you can browse, email, and connect with the world below. However, sometimes issues can arise.
Sub-heading: What You Can and Cannot Do
While Southwest Wi-Fi is great for general Browse, email, and social media, it's important to set realistic expectations for speed and functionality. Southwest, like many airlines, prohibits access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites to maintain a stable service for all passengers. This often includes:
Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max
Video conferencing tools such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams
Heavy file downloads/uploads
You can typically use:
Web Browse
Email
Social media platforms
Light productivity tasks
Sub-heading: Troubleshooting Common Issues
"Can't connect to SouthwestWiFi network:" Double-check that Airplane Mode is on and then Wi-Fi is specifically re-enabled. Try toggling Wi-Fi off and on again.
"Portal won't load automatically:" Manually type
www.southwestwifi.com "Slow speeds or intermittent connection:" Inflight Wi-Fi can be affected by the number of users and satellite availability. Try moving closer to the aisle or a less congested area of the plane if possible. Sometimes simply waiting a few minutes can help.
"Payment error:" Re-enter your credit card details carefully. Ensure there are sufficient funds or credit available. If the issue persists, you might need to try a different card.
Still having trouble? While inflight assistance is limited, you can always try restarting your device. For persistent issues, make a note of the problem and contact Southwest Customer Service after your flight.
Special Notes for A-List Preferred Members and Business Select Customers:
If you are a Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member or a Business Select Customer, you are eligible for complimentary inflight Wi-Fi! Simply follow the connection steps (Steps 1-3), and when you reach the payment section, your complimentary access should be recognized. You might need to log in with your Rapid Rewards account information to verify your status.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about purchasing and using Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines:
How to check if my flight has Wi-Fi?
Southwest Airlines aims to have Wi-Fi on all their aircraft. While it's generally available, you can often check for Wi-Fi capability on specific aircraft types (Boeing 737-700, -800, MAX 8) through Southwest's website or by asking a flight attendant.
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards members and Business Select customers receive complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, all passengers can enjoy free access to Southwest's Inflight Entertainment Portal, which includes movies, live TV, on-demand shows, and free messaging via iMessage and WhatsApp, without a paid Wi-Fi purchase.
How to pay for Southwest Wi-Fi?
You can pay for Southwest Wi-Fi directly through the Inflight Entertainment Portal using major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover).
How to troubleshoot if Southwest Wi-Fi isn't working?
First, ensure your device is in Airplane Mode with Wi-Fi re-enabled. Try typing www.southwestwifi.com into your browser. If issues persist, try restarting your device or contacting Southwest Customer Service after your flight for support.
How to connect to Southwest Wi-Fi on multiple devices?
The paid Wi-Fi is generally per device. If you want Wi-Fi on both a laptop and a phone, you would typically need to purchase two separate $8 Wi-Fi passes.
How to watch Netflix or stream other video services on Southwest Wi-Fi?
Southwest's Wi-Fi service does not support high-bandwidth activities like streaming Netflix, Hulu, or other video services due to bandwidth limitations. They offer their own free inflight entertainment for movies and TV shows.
How to use iMessage or WhatsApp for free on Southwest?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network and access the Inflight Entertainment Portal. You'll find options for free messaging through iMessage and WhatsApp without needing to purchase the full Wi-Fi package. Note: You need to have these apps downloaded and activated on your device before the flight.
How to get a refund for Southwest Wi-Fi if it didn't work?
If you experienced significant issues with the Wi-Fi service after purchasing it, you can contact Southwest Airlines Customer Service after your flight to explain the situation and inquire about a refund. Keep any receipt or confirmation of your purchase.
How to know if my Rapid Rewards status gives me free Wi-Fi?
Only A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards members receive complimentary Wi-Fi. A-List members (without "Preferred" status) do not. You can check your Rapid Rewards status on the Southwest website or app.
How to prepare my device for Southwest Wi-Fi before the flight?
Fully charge your device, ensure your operating system and browser are up to date, and if you plan to use it, download the Southwest Airlines mobile app beforehand. This ensures a smoother connection process once you're onboard.