What Boarding Position Do You Get with Early Bird Check-In Southwest?
Southwest Airlines is well-known for its unique boarding process, which uses a boarding position system rather than assigned seats. With the Early Bird Check-In service, passengers can enhance their chances of securing a favorable boarding position. But what exactly is the boarding position you get with Early Bird Check-In? Let’s explore.
Early Bird Check-In ensures that you’re automatically checked in for your Southwest flight 36 hours before departure, prior to general check-in. This service comes at an additional cost and can be purchased during the initial booking process or added later through the Southwest Airlines website or customer service. Once you’ve completed your check-in with Early Bird, you will receive a boarding position within the range of A1 to B60.
By being among the first to check in, Early Bird Check-In passengers are typically assigned a boarding position within the A group. This grants them the advantage of boarding the aircraft ahead of others, allowing for a wider selection of seats and more storage space for carry-on luggage. However, it’s important to note that while Early Bird Check-In can improve your boarding position, it does not guarantee an A group boarding position. The exact position you receive may still vary based on factors such as the number of passengers with pre-existing boarding numbers or those who purchased upgrades.
FAQs about Early Bird Check-In and Boarding Positions:
1. What is the cost of Southwest’s Early Bird Check-In service?
The price of Early Bird Check-In varies depending on the flight and route. It typically ranges from $15 to $25 per person each way. It’s important to note that this cost is in addition to the regular ticket price.
2. When does Early Bird Check-In become available?
Early Bird Check-In is available for purchase from the time you make your initial flight reservation until 36 hours before departure. It is recommended to purchase it as early as possible to increase your chances of obtaining a favorable boarding position.
3. Can I cancel or change my Early Bird Check-In?
Yes, you can cancel or change your Early Bird Check-In up to 36 hours before the departure time. However, keep in mind that Southwest Airlines does not provide refunds for this service.
4. Are there any restrictions on the use of Early Bird Check-In?
Early Bird Check-In is not available for unaccompanied minors, group bookings of 10 or more passengers, and those who require a specific seat due to disabilities or medical conditions. It is also subject to availability on certain international flights and codeshare flights.
5. Can I purchase Early Bird Check-In at the airport?
No, Early Bird Check-In can only be purchased online through the Southwest Airlines website or customer service. It is not available for purchase at the airport ticket counters or kiosks.
6. Does Early Bird Check-In guarantee me an A group boarding position?
While Early Bird Check-In improves your chances of obtaining an A group boarding position, it does not guarantee it. Factors such as the number of passengers with pre-existing boarding numbers or upgrades may still impact your assigned position.
7. Do I need to check-in again if I’ve purchased Early Bird Check-In?
No, if you’ve purchased Early Bird Check-In, you do not need to check-in again manually. The service will automatically check you in 36 hours prior to the flight’s departure time.
8. Can I change my seat after purchasing Early Bird Check-In?
Yes, you can change your seat after purchasing Early Bird Check-In. However, changing your seat will not affect your boarding position.
9. What happens if I miss my flight?
If you miss your flight, your Early Bird Check-In fee will be forfeited. Southwest Airlines does not provide refunds or rebooking options for missed flights.
10. Can I transfer my Early Bird Check-In to another passenger?
No, Early Bird Check-In is non-transferable and only valid for the passenger who purchased it. It cannot be transferred to another passenger or used for a future flight.
11. Is Early Bird Check-In available on international flights?
Yes, Early Bird Check-In is available on most Southwest Airlines international flights. However, it is subject to availability based on the specific route.
12. Can I purchase Early Bird Check-In for a connecting flight?
Yes, Early Bird Check-In can be purchased for both domestic and international connecting flights. However, it’s important to note that the boarding position for each connecting flight will be assigned separately.
Remember, with Early Bird Check-In, you increase your chances of being assigned a better boarding position, giving you more flexibility and choices when selecting your seat on Southwest Airlines.
