Flying Southwest and wondering how to turn that flight time into a personal movie marathon? You're in luck! Southwest Airlines offers a fantastic free in-flight entertainment portal that includes a wide selection of movies. Forget those tiny, expensive seatback screens – with Southwest, your own device is your personal cinema. Ready to dive in? Let's get started!
Your Personal In-Flight Cinema: A Guide to Watching Movies on Southwest Airlines
We all know the feeling: you're settled into your seat, the flight attendants are doing their safety demonstration, and you're thinking, "What am I going to do for the next few hours?" If you're flying Southwest, the answer is simple: watch a movie! Southwest has made it incredibly easy and, best of all, free to enjoy a variety of entertainment right from your personal smartphone, tablet, or laptop. No more scrambling for a magazine or trying to strike up a conversation with your sleepy seatmate.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you're enjoying your favorite flicks (or discovering new ones!) as soon as you're airborne.
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| How To Watch Movies On Southwest Airlines Flights |
Step 1: Pre-Flight Preparations – Your Device is Your Ticket!
Before you even step foot on the plane, a little preparation goes a long way. This is where you engage with your future in-flight entertainment!
Sub-heading 1.1: Download the Southwest® App (Crucial for Movies!)
This is perhaps the most important step for movie lovers. While you can access some content through your web browser, to watch the full library of movies and on-demand TV shows, you must have the Southwest® app downloaded on your mobile device or tablet.
For iOS (Apple devices): Head to the App Store.
For Android devices: Go to the Google Play Store.
Search for "Southwest Airlines" and download the official app. Don't wait until you're on the plane, as you won't have internet access to download it then!
Sub-heading 1.2: Charge Your Devices
There are no seatback screens on Southwest flights, which means you'll be relying on your own device's battery. While Southwest is actively working to install USB-A and USB-C power ports on newer aircraft, the majority of their planes currently do not have power outlets.
Make sure your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged before you head to the airport.
Consider bringing a portable power bank (fully charged, of course!) as a backup, especially for longer flights or if you plan on extended viewing.
Sub-heading 1.3: Pack Your Headphones
This might seem obvious, but it's easily forgotten! Southwest does not provide or sell headphones onboard, and they are required if you plan on listening to any audio content. Be a good neighbor and don't make everyone else listen to your movie!
Pack your favorite wired or wireless headphones.
Bluetooth headphones will work once you're connected to the Wi-Fi.
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
Step 2: Onboard Connectivity – Getting Hooked Up to the Fun
Now you're on the plane, buckled in, and ready for your cinematic adventure. This is where the magic happens!
Sub-heading 2.1: Activate Airplane Mode (But Keep Wi-Fi On!)
As soon as you're seated, and especially before takeoff, you'll need to enable Airplane Mode on your device. This is a standard safety procedure.
Go to your device's Settings.
Toggle Airplane Mode (or Flight Mode) ON.
Crucially, after enabling Airplane Mode, immediately turn your Wi-Fi back ON. Airplane Mode disables all wireless signals, but you need Wi-Fi to connect to the plane's network.
Sub-heading 2.2: Connect to "SouthwestWiFi"
Once your Wi-Fi is enabled, your device will scan for available networks.
From the list of Wi-Fi networks, select "SouthwestWiFi".
There's no password required – it's a direct connection to their entertainment portal.
Sub-heading 2.3: Access the Inflight Entertainment Portal
After connecting to the Wi-Fi network, your device should automatically prompt you to open a web browser to access the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal.
If it doesn't automatically redirect, simply open your preferred web browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, etc.) and type
www.SouthwestWiFi.com This will take you to the homepage of Southwest's entertainment portal.
Step 3: Navigating the Entertainment Portal – Your Movie Selection
Welcome to your personal entertainment hub in the sky!
Sub-heading 3.1: Locate the "Movies" Section
On the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal homepage, you'll see various options: Movies, Live TV, On-Demand TV, Music (iHeartRadio), Flight Tracker, and Free Messaging.
Tap on the "Movies" section.
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
Sub-heading 3.2: Enjoy Free Movies (Via the App!)
As mentioned in Step 1, to access the full library of movies, you'll need the Southwest® app.
The portal will likely prompt you to open the movie in the Southwest® app. If not, simply open the app directly.
Within the app, navigate to the entertainment section, and you'll find the movie library.
Browse through the selection of new releases and old favorites. Southwest regularly updates its movie offerings, so there's usually something for everyone.
Select your desired movie and press play!
Sub-heading 3.3: Exploring Other Free Entertainment Options
While movies are a highlight, don't forget the other free entertainment available:
Live TV: Southwest offers a selection of live TV channels (availability may vary, especially on international flights).
On-Demand TV: Catch up on popular TV series episodes.
iHeartRadio: Tune into a wide variety of music and podcasts for free.
Flight Tracker: Keep an eye on your flight's progress, estimated arrival time, and altitude – surprisingly engaging!
Free Messaging: Stay connected with friends and family on the ground via iMessage and WhatsApp (these apps must be downloaded and activated before your flight).
Step 4: Troubleshooting and Tips – Ensuring a Smooth Experience
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Sometimes, technology can be finicky. Here are a few tips if you encounter any issues.
Sub-heading 4.1: If the Portal Doesn't Load
Double-check your Wi-Fi connection: Ensure you're definitely connected to "SouthwestWiFi".
Clear your browser's cache/cookies: Sometimes old data can interfere.
Try a different browser: If one browser isn't working, try another (e.g., if you're using Safari, try Chrome).
Re-type the URL: Manually enter
www.SouthwestWiFi.cominto your browser.Restart your device: A quick reboot can often resolve connectivity glitches.
Sub-heading 4.2: If Movies Aren't Playing in the App
Ensure the Southwest® app is updated: Outdated apps can sometimes have issues.
Close and reopen the app: A fresh start can help.
Check for app-specific permissions: Ensure the app has necessary permissions on your device.
Sub-heading 4.3: Conserving Battery
Lower your screen brightness.
Close other unnecessary apps running in the background.
Consider using power-saving mode on your device.
Step 5: Beyond Free Entertainment – Paid Internet Access
While the entertainment portal is free, Southwest also offers paid internet access for general Browse, email, and social media.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
Sub-heading 5.1: Understanding the Cost and Limitations
Cost: Internet access typically costs $8 per device per flight.
A-List Preferred Members and Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card holders: May receive complimentary Wi-Fi access. Check your specific card benefits or status.
Limitations: To ensure a quality experience for all passengers, Southwest's paid Wi-Fi prohibits access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites, including most streaming services like Netflix, HBO GO®, and VoIP. Don't expect to stream your personal subscriptions.
Sub-heading 5.2: How to Purchase Internet Access
Within the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal, there will be an option to purchase internet access.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the payment.
Conclusion
Watching movies on Southwest Airlines flights is an excellent way to pass the time and make your journey more enjoyable. By simply preparing your device, connecting to the free "SouthwestWiFi" network, and utilizing the Southwest® app, you unlock a world of entertainment at 30,000 feet. So next time you fly Southwest, sit back, relax, and enjoy your personal cinematic experience!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to access the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal?
You can access the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal by connecting to the "SouthwestWiFi" network on your device and then opening your web browser to www.SouthwestWiFi.com.
How to watch free movies on Southwest flights?
To watch free movies on Southwest flights, connect to "SouthwestWiFi", then open the Southwest® app on your mobile device or tablet. The movies are primarily streamed through the app.
How to download the Southwest Airlines app?
You can download the Southwest Airlines app from the Apple App Store for iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices. It's highly recommended to do this before your flight.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
How to connect to Southwest Wi-Fi?
Turn on Airplane Mode, then re-enable Wi-Fi. Select "SouthwestWiFi" from your list of available networks. No password is required.
How to know if my Southwest flight has Wi-Fi?
Southwest Airlines states that their entire fleet is Wi-Fi enabled. You should be able to access the Inflight Entertainment Portal on most flights.
How to charge my phone or tablet on a Southwest flight?
As of now, most Southwest aircraft do not have power outlets. It's crucial to fully charge your devices before your flight and consider bringing a portable power bank. Newer planes are being equipped with USB-A and USB-C ports.
How to use iMessage or WhatsApp for free on Southwest flights?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, and then you can use iMessage and WhatsApp for free texting through the Inflight Entertainment Portal. Ensure these apps are downloaded and activated on your device before your flight.
How to watch live TV on Southwest flights?
Connect to "SouthwestWiFi" and access the Inflight Entertainment Portal. From there, you can select the "Live TV" option to watch available channels. Note that live TV availability may be restricted on international flights.
How to purchase internet access on Southwest flights?
Once connected to "SouthwestWiFi" and within the Inflight Entertainment Portal, you will see an option to purchase full internet access for typically $8 per device per flight.
How to troubleshoot Wi-Fi connection issues on Southwest flights?
If you have trouble connecting, try ensuring Airplane Mode is on and Wi-Fi is re-enabled, restarting your device, clearing your browser's cache, or manually typing www.SouthwestWiFi.com into your browser.
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