How does Southwest A List boarding work?

How does Southwest A List boarding work?

Southwest A List boarding is a unique system implemented by Southwest Airlines to provide priority boarding for its frequent flyers. With this program, A List members are given the advantage of boarding the aircraft before general passengers. But how does Southwest A List boarding work? Let’s dive into the details.

To become eligible for A List boarding, passengers must reach a certain level of qualification. Southwest Airlines offers two tiers of A List membership: A List and A List Preferred. To achieve A List status, passengers need to fly 25 qualifying one-way flights or earn 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year. On the other hand, A List Preferred requires 50 qualifying one-way flights or 70,000 tier qualifying points in a year.

Once passengers achieve A List or A List Preferred status, they are automatically upgraded to enjoy priority boarding benefits. Priority boarding means these passengers can choose their preferred seat and board before general passengers. A List members can board before the B and C groups, while A List Preferred members have the advantage of boarding ahead of everyone else, including A List members.

Frequently Asked Questions about Southwest A List boarding:

1. How do I become eligible for Southwest A List boarding?

To become eligible for Southwest A List boarding, you need to achieve either A List or A List Preferred status. This can be done by flying a certain number of qualifying one-way flights or accruing a specific amount of tier qualifying points within a calendar year.

2. What are tier qualifying points?

Tier qualifying points are the points earned on Southwest flights that count towards achieving A List or A List Preferred status. These points are separate from Rapid Rewards points, which are earned for redeeming flights or through other offers.

3. Can I earn tier qualifying points on flights booked with points?

No, tier qualifying points can only be earned on flights booked with cash fares. Flights booked with Rapid Rewards points or any other form of reward currency do not count towards earning tier qualifying points.

4. Is there an annual fee for A List membership?

No, there is no annual fee associated with Southwest A List membership. The qualification for A List and A List Preferred status is solely based on flying activity or tier qualifying points earned within a calendar year.

5. How do I know if I have achieved A List status?

Once you meet the criteria for A List status, Southwest Airlines will automatically upgrade your account. You can check your status in your Southwest account online or through the Southwest mobile app.

6. Can I bring a companion with me during A List boarding?

Unfortunately, A List boarding benefits do not extend to any companions traveling with you. However, if you are an A List Preferred member, you can still bring a companion with you in the priority boarding group.

7. What happens if I have A List status but my companion does not?

If you have A List status but your companion does not, you can still board together during the A List boarding group. This applies to both A List and A List Preferred members.

8. Can I use A List boarding when traveling on international flights?

Yes, A List boarding can be utilized on both domestic and international flights operated by Southwest Airlines. However, it may vary depending on the airport and local regulations.

9. Can I use A List boarding on codeshare flights?

No, A List boarding benefits do not apply to codeshare flights operated by partner airlines. It is only applicable to flights operated by Southwest Airlines.

10. What happens if I achieve A List Preferred status?

When you achieve A List Preferred status, you not only gain the privilege of boarding ahead of A List members but also enjoy additional benefits like priority check-in, access to the preferred security lane (where available), and a 100% earning bonus on Rapid Rewards points.

11. Do A List members have guaranteed access to overhead bin space?

While A List members do get early access to the aircraft, Southwest Airlines does not guarantee the availability of overhead bin space. It is always recommended to arrive early to ensure a hassle-free boarding experience.

12. Can I still participate in family boarding if I have A List status?

Yes, A List members are still eligible to participate in family boarding after the A group has boarded. Family boarding is a separate process, and families with children under the age of six can take advantage of this option.

In conclusion, Southwest A List boarding provides priority boarding benefits for frequent flyers who achieve A List or A List Preferred status. These passengers enjoy early access to the aircraft, allowing them to choose their preferred seats and avoid the hassle of searching for overhead bin space. With Southwest A List boarding, frequent flyers can enhance their travel experience and make their journey even more convenient.