Why Southwest just broke its 50-year boarding tradition
Southwest Airlines pioneered the low-fare, no-frills airline model. But Southwest is now ending open-seat boarding, a distinct part of its successful ...
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Southwest assigned seats - 10 things to know with detail
Southwest Airlines does not assign seats: Unlike many other airlines, Southwest operates on an open seating policy. This means that passengers do not have assigned seats when they check in for their flight.
Boarding positions are determined by check-in time: Passengers are assigned a boarding position based on the time they check in for their flight. Earlier check-ins typically result in better boarding positions and access to preferred seats.
EarlyBird Check-In: Passengers can purchase EarlyBird Check-In for an additional fee to secure a better boarding position. This can be a convenient option for travelers who want to ensure they have an earlier boarding position.
Business Select fares: Passengers who purchase a Business Select fare are automatically assigned one of the first boarding positions. This can be a good option for business travelers or those who prefer to have priority boarding.
Group boarding: Southwest typically boards passengers in groups, with positions A1-A30 boarding first, followed by positions A31-A60, and so on. This helps to organize the boarding process and ensure a smooth experience for all passengers.
Choose your own seat: Once onboard, passengers are free to choose any available seat on the aircraft. This allows for flexibility and the ability to sit with traveling companions or in a preferred location.
Exit row and premium seats: Southwest offers exit row and premium seats for an additional fee. These seats typically offer more legroom and other amenities, making them a popular choice for passengers looking for added comfort.
Family boarding: Southwest allows families with children under the age of six to board between the A and B groups during family boarding. This can be a helpful option for families traveling together.
Seat saving: Southwest does not allow seat saving, so passengers should be prepared to choose their seat quickly once onboard. This helps to ensure a fair and efficient boarding process for all passengers.
Be prepared for the boarding process: Since Southwest does not assign seats, it's important to be prepared for the boarding process and know where you want to sit once onboard. Arriving early for check-in and considering options like EarlyBird Check-In can help ensure a smooth experience.