Who gets to board first on Southwest?

Who gets to board first on Southwest?

When it comes to boarding an airplane, Southwest Airlines has a unique system in place. Unlike many other airlines, Southwest does not assign specific seats to its passengers. Instead, they use a boarding process based on groups and numbers. The boarding order is determined by the type of ticket purchased, loyalty status, and a few other factors. Let’s take a closer look at who gets to board first on Southwest.

The A-List and A-List Preferred Members

Southwest Airlines has a frequent flyer program called Rapid Rewards. Within this program, there are two tiers known as A-List and A-List Preferred. These members enjoy priority boarding privileges. A-List and A-List Preferred members are allowed to board before general passengers and are assigned a boarding position in the A group. This means they have a higher chance of securing their preferred seats and storing their carry-on luggage conveniently.

Business Select Passengers

Business Select is a fare category available for purchase on Southwest Airlines. Passengers who choose the Business Select fare are entitled to a few additional perks, including priority boarding. Business Select passengers are assigned a boarding position in the A group, which ensures they can board before others who are not part of A-List or Business Select.

EarlyBird Check-In

While A-List members, A-List Preferred members, and Business Select passengers are guaranteed priority boarding positions, other passengers can improve their chances by purchasing EarlyBird Check-In. EarlyBird Check-In is an optional add-on that can be purchased for a fee. With EarlyBird Check-In, passengers receive an automatic check-in and are assigned a boarding position before those who checked in online at the 24-hour mark. However, it’s important to note that EarlyBird Check-In does not guarantee a specific boarding position, and it is subject to availability.

Family Boarding

Southwest Airlines also offers a Family Boarding policy, which allows families with children aged six or under to board between the A and B boarding groups. This provides families with the opportunity to find seats together and get settled before the majority of passengers board.

Companion Pass Holders

Another privilege on Southwest Airlines is the Companion Pass, which allows a designated companion to fly for free with the pass holder. Companion Pass holders are also granted priority boarding and can board with their A-List or A-List Preferred boarding position.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I become an A-List member?

To become an A-List member, you need to earn 35,000 tier qualifying points or fly 25 qualifying one-way flights in a calendar year.

2. Is there a fee to join the Rapid Rewards program?

No, joining the Rapid Rewards program is free. Passengers can sign up on the Southwest Airlines website.

3. How much does EarlyBird Check-In cost?

The cost of EarlyBird Check-In varies depending on the flight. It can range from $15 to $25 per passenger, one-way.

4. Can I purchase EarlyBird Check-In at the airport?

No, EarlyBird Check-In can only be purchased online when booking your flight or added later through the Southwest Airlines website.

5. Can I board early if I have a Southwest credit card?

Having a Southwest credit card does not automatically grant you priority boarding. However, the card may enable you to earn Rapid Rewards points, which can contribute to reaching A-List or A-List Preferred status.

6. Are there any restrictions on Family Boarding?

Family Boarding is available for families with children aged six or under. Each adult can board with up to two children.

7. What if my flight is delayed or rescheduled?

If your flight is delayed or rescheduled, Southwest will make necessary adjustments to your boarding position based on the new departure time.

8. Can I bring a carry-on bag even if I board in the later groups?

Yes, Southwest Airlines allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item regardless of their boarding position.

9. Can I change my boarding position?

Once your boarding position is assigned, it cannot be changed. However, you can improve your position by purchasing EarlyBird Check-In if available.

10. Can I pay for priority boarding at the gate?

No, priority boarding options like Business Select and EarlyBird Check-In must be purchased before arrival at the airport.

11. What if I have a connecting flight with Southwest?

If you have a connecting flight with Southwest, your boarding position will remain the same as your original flight.

12. Can I still check-in online if I have EarlyBird Check-In?

Yes, EarlyBird Check-In passengers can go through the online check-in process, but their boarding position will already be assigned due to the EarlyBird Check-In purchase.