Do you just sit wherever you want on Southwest?

**Do you just sit wherever you want on Southwest?**

Southwest Airlines is known for its unique seating policy. Unlike most other airlines, Southwest doesn’t assign seats. Instead, passengers are assigned a boarding group (A, B, C) and a number within that group. When it’s time to board, passengers can choose any available seat on the plane. This can raise questions for first-time Southwest flyers or those who are used to the traditional assigned seating model.

**First Explaining the Seating Policy on Southwest Airlines**

The open seating policy on Southwest Airlines can be a bit confusing for those who have never flown with the airline before. However, it’s actually quite simple. Passengers are assigned a boarding group and a number within that group based on when they check in for their flight. The earlier you check in, the earlier you board the plane and have more seat options to choose from. Once on board, you can select any available seat, unless it’s designated as a premium seat or saved for a passenger with a disability. This flexibility allows passengers to choose a seat that best suits their preferences, whether it’s a window seat, an aisle seat, or towards the front or back of the plane.

**Frequently Asked Questions about Seating on Southwest Airlines**

1. Are there any reserved seats on Southwest Airlines?

Yes, Southwest Airlines offers the option to purchase upgraded boarding, which allows passengers to secure a better boarding position and have first pick of available seats.

2. Can I save a seat for someone else?

No, saving seats on Southwest Airlines is discouraged as it goes against their open seating policy. Each passenger should choose their own seat when boarding the plane.

3. What if I don’t get a good seat?

Even if you’re in a later boarding group, there are still plenty of good seat options available. Some passengers prefer to sit towards the back for quicker boarding and unloading, while others prefer the front for quick exits.

4. Can I pay extra for a specific seat?

Southwest Airlines does not offer the option to pay extra for specific seat assignments. All seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. What if I have a disability and need a specific seat?

Passengers with disabilities can pre-board the plane to ensure they have access to the seats that best accommodate their needs.

6. Can I switch seats after I’ve already sat down?

As long as the plane is still boarding and there are available seats, passengers are welcome to move to a different seat.

7. Can I sit with my travel companion?

Southwest Airlines does not guarantee that passengers traveling together will be able to sit together, so it’s best to board as early as possible to increase the chances of finding adjacent seats.

8. Can I choose a seat online before the flight?

Southwest Airlines does not offer the option to choose seats in advance. Boarding positions are assigned at the time of check-in, which can be done 24 hours before the flight.

9. What happens if the flight is full and there are no seats available?

Southwest Airlines operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so if the flight is full, passengers may have to take the next available flight.

10. Are there any benefits to the open seating policy?

The open seating policy allows for quicker boarding and deplaning, as passengers can choose any available seat without having to navigate around assigned seating arrangements.