Flying with Southwest Airlines and wondering how to catch up on your favorite shows or watch a movie? You're in luck! While Southwest doesn't have seat-back screens, they offer a fantastic inflight entertainment portal that you can access right on your personal device. So, let's get you set up for an enjoyable flight with all the entertainment you could want!
Your Guide to Watching TV on Southwest Airlines
Say goodbye to boredom on your next Southwest flight! With a little preparation and these simple steps, you'll be streaming movies and live TV in no time.
Step 1: Prepare for Takeoff – Get Your Device Ready!
Before you even step foot on the plane, this is the most crucial step. Southwest's entertainment is all accessed through your own gadgets.
Download the Southwest App: This is essential for accessing some of the free movies and on-demand TV content. Head to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download the official Southwest Airlines app. Do this before you leave for the airport, as internet access might be spotty or unavailable once you're in the air.
Charge Your Devices: There's nothing worse than getting settled only to realize your battery is at 10%. While Southwest is working on adding USB-A and USB-C power ports to newer planes, many aircraft still do not have them. So, make sure your phone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged to enjoy uninterrupted entertainment.
Bring Headphones: This is a courtesy to your fellow passengers and a necessity for you to hear any audio. Southwest does not sell headphones onboard, so pack your own!
Step 2: Onboard Connectivity – Getting Wired Up (Wirelessly!)
Once you're settled in your seat and the cabin doors are closed, it's time to connect to the inflight network.
Turn on Airplane Mode: As soon as you're instructed, set your device to airplane mode. This is standard safety protocol.
Enable Wi-Fi: Even in airplane mode, you can still enable Wi-Fi. Go to your device's settings and turn on Wi-Fi.
Select "SouthwestWiFi": From the list of available Wi-Fi networks, you'll see "SouthwestWiFi". Tap to connect to it. You don't need a password for this step.
Step 3: Accessing the Entertainment Portal – Your Gateway to Fun
Now that you're connected to the network, it's time to dive into the entertainment.
Open Your Browser: Your device's web browser might automatically open to the Southwest Airlines Hotspot portal. If it doesn't, simply open your preferred browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.) and type southwestwifi.com into the address bar.
Explore the Portal: Welcome to your inflight entertainment hub! Here you'll find a variety of options:
Free Live TV: Southwest offers several live TV channels, including popular ones like ABC, CBS, CNBC, CNN, ESPN, and FOX. Keep in mind that live TV availability might be limited on international flights due to licensing restrictions.
Free On-Demand TV Series: Catch up on episodes of various TV shows. The selection changes periodically, but often includes popular series.
Free Movies: There's a wide selection of movies, from new releases to classic favorites. Remember, for some movies and on-demand TV content, you'll need the Southwest Airlines app that you downloaded in Step 1.
Free Music: Tune into iHeartRadio for a variety of music genres, podcasts, and more. If you already have the iHeartRadio app, you can access your personalized music and playlists.
Flight Tracker: Want to know how much longer until you land? The flight tracker keeps you updated on your journey.
Free Messaging: Stay in touch with friends and family via iMessage and WhatsApp. These apps must be downloaded and activated before connecting to the Southwest Wi-Fi.
Step 4: Internet Access (Optional) – For Browse Beyond Entertainment
While the inflight entertainment is free, if you need full internet access for Browse the web, checking emails, or social media, there's a small fee.
Cost of Internet: Internet access on Southwest flights costs $8 per device, per flight. So, if you have a connecting flight, you'll need to pay the $8 fee for each leg of your trip.
How to Purchase: Within the Southwest Inflight Entertainment Portal, you'll find an option to purchase internet access. Simply follow the prompts to complete your purchase.
Free Internet Access: There are a couple of ways to get free internet access on Southwest:
A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved A-List Preferred status with Southwest Rapid Rewards, you get complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card: Holders of this card can pay for Wi-Fi, and the charge will be reimbursed as a statement credit, up to 365 times per year.
Bandwidth Restrictions: Be aware that Southwest prohibits access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites (like Netflix, HBO Max, and VoIP services like Zoom) to ensure a stable connection for all passengers.
Important Considerations for a Smooth Experience
Aircraft Specifics: While most Southwest aircraft are Wi-Fi enabled, there can be exceptions. It's always a good idea to ensure your flight offers these services, though it's rare for them not to on domestic routes.
International Flights: On international flights, the free live TV and iHeartRadio services may not be available for the full duration of the flight due to licensing restrictions. Internet access is typically available only during the domestic portion.
Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues, try disconnecting and reconnecting to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, or closing and reopening your browser. If problems persist, a flight attendant may be able to offer limited assistance.
By following these steps, you'll transform your Southwest flight into your personal entertainment lounge. Enjoy your journey!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about watching TV and using Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines:
How to connect to Southwest Wi-Fi?
To connect, turn on airplane mode, then enable Wi-Fi on your device, select "SouthwestWiFi" from the available networks, and open your browser to southwestwifi.com.
How to get free Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
A-List Preferred members receive free Wi-Fi. Also, holders of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card can get Wi-Fi charges reimbursed. All passengers can access free entertainment (movies, live TV, on-demand TV, music, texting) without purchasing internet.
How to watch movies on Southwest Airlines?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, access the inflight entertainment portal via southwestwifi.com, and select movies. For some movies, you will need the Southwest Airlines mobile app installed on your device.
How to watch live TV on Southwest Airlines?
Connect to the "SouthwestWiFi" network, go to southwestwifi.com, and select the Live TV option. A selection of channels like ABC, CNN, ESPN, and FOX is typically available.
How to download the Southwest Airlines app for entertainment?
Search for "Southwest Airlines" in the Apple App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices) and install the official app before your flight.
How to troubleshoot Southwest Airlines inflight entertainment?
First, try turning airplane mode off and on, then reconnecting to "SouthwestWiFi." If that doesn't work, close and reopen your web browser or the Southwest app. Ensure your device's operating system is updated.
How to know if my Southwest flight has Wi-Fi?
Most Southwest flights are equipped with Wi-Fi. You'll typically be informed onboard, or you can check with a gate agent or flight attendant if you're unsure.
How to charge devices on Southwest Airlines flights?
Currently, most Southwest aircraft do not have power outlets or USB ports. It is highly recommended to fully charge all your devices before boarding. Newer planes are gradually being equipped with USB-A and USB-C ports.
How to send messages on Southwest Airlines flights?
Once connected to "SouthwestWiFi" and the inflight portal, you can send messages for free using iMessage (for Apple devices) or WhatsApp. Ensure these apps are downloaded and activated on your device before your flight.
How to access internet for work or Browse on Southwest Airlines?
After connecting to "SouthwestWiFi" and opening the portal at southwestwifi.com, you can purchase full internet access for $8 per device, per flight. Note that some high-bandwidth applications are blocked.
