Staying Connected at 35,000 Feet: Your Comprehensive Guide to Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi
Ever found yourself mid-flight, yearning to send a quick email, scroll through social media, or simply check the news? The good news is, with Southwest Airlines, staying connected while cruising through the skies is easier than you might think! This guide will walk you through every step of getting online, enjoying entertainment, and making the most of your flight time.
Ready to elevate your inflight experience? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Prepare Your Device Before Takeoff – The Smart Traveler's Move
Before you even step foot on the plane, a little preparation can save you a lot of hassle. Southwest's inflight Wi-Fi experience often leverages its mobile app for certain features.
1.1 Download the Southwest® App
This is crucial for accessing movies and on-demand TV shows for free. Head to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and search for "Southwest®". Download and install it.
1.2 Charge Your Devices
While Southwest is progressively adding USB-A and USB-C power ports to its newest aircraft, a majority of their planes currently do not have them. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity and entertainment, make sure your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged before boarding. There's nothing worse than getting connected only to have your battery die!
1.3 Understand Wi-Fi Capabilities and Limitations
Southwest offers both free inflight entertainment and paid internet access.
Free Inflight Entertainment: This includes Live TV, on-demand movies, TV series, music via iHeartRadio, and free messaging through iMessage and WhatsApp. You do not need to purchase Wi-Fi to access these features.
Paid Internet Access: For full web Browse, checking emails, and social media, you'll need to purchase Wi-Fi. Southwest prohibits access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites like Netflix, HBO Go, Zoom, and other video conferencing services to maintain a stable experience for everyone.
Step 2: Boarding and Activating Airplane Mode – The Foundation of Connectivity
Once you're settled in your seat, it's time to prepare your device for inflight use.
2.1 Set Your Device to Airplane Mode
This is a standard safety protocol for all flights. Locate your device's "Settings" menu.
On iOS (iPhone/iPad): Swipe down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom for older models) to open Control Center, then tap the airplane icon. Alternatively, go to Settings > Airplane Mode and toggle it on.
On Android: Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick Settings panel, then tap the airplane icon. Alternatively, go to Settings > Network & internet > Airplane mode and toggle it on.
2.2 Turn On Your Wi-Fi
Crucially, while in Airplane Mode, you need to re-enable your Wi-Fi. Airplane mode typically disables all wireless radios, but you can selectively turn Wi-Fi back on.
On iOS: After enabling Airplane Mode, the Wi-Fi icon in the Control Center will likely be greyed out. Tap it to turn Wi-Fi back on. In Settings > Wi-Fi, you should see the option to toggle Wi-Fi on.
On Android: After enabling Airplane Mode, you can usually tap the Wi-Fi icon in the Quick Settings panel to re-enable it. In Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi, toggle it on.
Step 3: Connecting to the Southwest Wi-Fi Network – Your Gateway to the Sky
Now that your device is ready, let's get you connected to the network.
3.1 Select "SouthwestWiFi" from Available Networks
Go to your Wi-Fi settings (the same place you turned Wi-Fi back on in Step 2.2). You should see a list of available Wi-Fi networks. Look for "SouthwestWiFi" and tap on it to connect.
3.2 Access the Inflight Entertainment Portal
Once connected to "SouthwestWiFi," your device should automatically open a web browser and redirect you to the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal.
If the portal doesn't load automatically: Don't panic! Simply open your preferred web browser (Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge are recommended) and type
www.southwestwifi.com
Step 4: Choosing Your Inflight Experience – Free Entertainment or Paid Internet
You've made it to the portal! Now you have options.
4.1 Enjoy Free Inflight Entertainment
The Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal is your hub for complimentary content.
Movies and On-Demand TV: If you downloaded the Southwest® app in Step 1.1, you can access a variety of free movies and on-demand TV series directly through the app.
Live TV: Tune into select live TV channels. Note: Due to licensing restrictions, live TV may not be available for the full duration of international flights.
Music: Access music through iHeartRadio.
Free Messaging: Stay in touch with friends and family via iMessage and WhatsApp. Remember, these apps must be downloaded and activated on your device before your flight to work.
Flight Tracker: Keep tabs on your journey with a real-time flight tracker.
4.2 Purchase Internet Access (If Desired)
If you need full internet access for Browse, email, or social media, look for the option to purchase Wi-Fi on the portal.
Cost: As of 2025, Southwest Wi-Fi typically costs $8 per device, per flight. This means if you have a connecting flight, you'll need to pay for Wi-Fi on each individual flight segment.
Payment Methods: Southwest generally accepts major credit cards. While not explicitly mentioned for inflight Wi-Fi payments, their general payment methods include American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and sometimes PayPal or Apple Pay for other purchases. Be prepared with a credit card for the smoothest transaction.
Elite Status Benefits: Are you an A-List Preferred member or a Business Select Customer? If so, you enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access! Simply follow the prompts on the portal to log in with your Rapid Rewards account or provide your Business Select details to activate your free internet. A-List Preferred members can usually connect up to three devices for free.
Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues – A Smooth Flight Guaranteed
Sometimes technology can be a bit finicky. Here are a few tips if you encounter issues:
5.1 If You Can't Connect to "SouthwestWiFi"
Toggle Airplane Mode Off and On: Sometimes a simple reset of your device's network settings can resolve connection issues.
Forget the Network and Rejoin: In your Wi-Fi settings, select "SouthwestWiFi" and choose "Forget This Network" (or similar). Then, try connecting again.
Restart Your Device: The age-old solution often works!
Check for VPNs: If you use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), try disabling it before connecting to the Southwest Wi-Fi. Sometimes VPNs can interfere with initial portal redirection. You might be able to re-enable it after establishing a connection.
5.2 If the Portal Doesn't Load
Manually Enter the URL: As mentioned in Step 3.2, type
www.southwestwifi.com Try a Different Browser: If your current browser isn't working, switch to another installed browser (e.g., if you're using Safari, try Chrome).
Clear Browser Cache/Cookies: Occasionally, old data can interfere. Clear your browser's cache and cookies.
5.3 If Internet Access is Slow or Intermittent
Remember Bandwidth Limitations: Inflight Wi-Fi is shared among all passengers. Heavy usage can slow it down.
Southwest Blocks High-Bandwidth Apps: If you're trying to access streaming services like Netflix or make video calls, remember these are typically blocked to ensure a more consistent experience for everyone.
Move Closer to the Aisle (if possible): While unlikely to make a huge difference, being closer to the aircraft's internal Wi-Fi access points can sometimes help with signal strength.
Step 6: Maximizing Your Inflight Productivity and Entertainment
Once you're successfully connected, here are some tips to make the most of your Wi-Fi.
6.1 Focus on Productivity (if paid)
Since high-bandwidth activities are restricted, focus on tasks that require less data:
Catch up on emails: Clear out your inbox or draft responses.
Work on documents: Use cloud-based services like Google Docs or Microsoft 365.
Light Browse: Read articles, check news sites, or do some online shopping.
6.2 Dive into the Free Entertainment
Southwest offers a fantastic selection of free entertainment.
Watch a movie: Settle in with a complimentary film.
Binge a TV series: Discover new shows or catch up on old favorites.
Listen to music: Explore new artists or relax with familiar tunes.
6.3 Stay Hydrated and Comfortable
Even with the best Wi-Fi, flying can be dehydrating. Remember to drink plenty of water and stretch occasionally. Your well-being is just as important as your connectivity!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to access free movies on Southwest Airlines?
You can access free movies by first downloading the Southwest® app before your flight. Once connected to "SouthwestWiFi" inflight, open the app, and navigate to the entertainment section.
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
A-List Preferred members and Business Select Customers receive complimentary Wi-Fi access on Southwest flights. Additionally, holders of a Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card may receive statement credits for Wi-Fi purchases.
How to troubleshoot Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi not working?
First, ensure your device is in Airplane Mode with Wi-Fi re-enabled. Try forgetting and rejoining the "SouthwestWiFi" network, restarting your device, or manually typing www.southwestwifi.com into your browser. If you use a VPN, try disabling it temporarily.
How to pay for Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
You can purchase Wi-Fi access through the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal (
How to know if my Southwest flight has Wi-Fi?
Almost all Southwest Airlines aircraft are Wi-Fi enabled. However, you can often confirm Wi-Fi availability by checking the aircraft type on your boarding pass or asking a flight attendant.
How to use iMessage or WhatsApp on Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi?
Connect to "SouthwestWiFi," then open the Inflight Entertainment Portal. You should see an option for free messaging. Ensure both iMessage and WhatsApp are downloaded and activated on your device before your flight.
How to stream Netflix or Hulu on Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi?
Southwest Airlines generally prohibits access to high-bandwidth streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Go, and video conferencing applications to maintain stable Wi-Fi for all passengers. These services are typically not accessible.
How to connect multiple devices to Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi?
Southwest Wi-Fi is priced at $8 per device, per flight. If you wish to connect multiple devices (e.g., your phone and laptop), you will need to pay the $8 fee for each device, unless you are an A-List Preferred member (who typically gets complimentary access for up to three devices).
How to get a refund for Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi?
If you experienced significant issues with the Wi-Fi service after purchasing it, you may contact Southwest Airlines customer service to inquire about a refund. Keep your purchase confirmation or receipt handy.
How to find the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal?
Once you've connected your device to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, your browser should automatically redirect you to
