Does Southwest Airlines offer first class seating?

If you are a frequent flyer, then surely you might be interested to know about the seating options in Southwest Airlines and, at the same time, what would be their take on premium travel. Does Southwest Airlines have a first class? Southwest Airlines is one of the carriers which work differently than most other airlines.

Southwest Airlines First Class Seating: What to Expect

Unlike other major carriers, Southwest Airlines does not provide an availability of classic Southwest Airlines first class seating. Their business model is based on offering travel experiences at very low costs, no-frills, and, therefore, their aircraft are configured as single class. However, features and perks do make the experience of passengers who may want extra convenience and comfort a little better.

Southwest Airlines’ Single-Class Configuration

Open Seating Policy:
Southwest adopts an open seating policy, where any passenger can choose his seat on a first-come-first-served basis. This can be considered to be at the two extremes of airlines with dedicated cabins for first-class passengers with assigned pre-selected seats.

No Upgrades
Because all the seats on the Southwest planes are within the same class, there are no upgrades to first or business class. Instead, the focus is placed on ensuring that every passenger has a uniform experience while traveling.

Options for First-Class at Southwest Airlines

Although Southwest Airlines does not have a first-class service, it does have benefits for its passengers that are desirous of some sort of luxury service:

Business Select Fares:

• Priority Boarding: Those passengers holding Business Select fares get priority boarding; they board the flight first; they get to choose seats.
• Extra Perks: The passenger holding Business Select earns higher Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent; they get complimentary premium drinks.
• Flexibility: Tickets are refundable and changeable without fees.
• EarlyBird Check-In:

Passengers can pay a small fee to ensure an earlier boarding position, thus increasing their chances of getting a seat with extra legroom or a seat of choice.

Preferred Boarding:

Is offered at the gate, for sale; A1-A15 early boarding positions; aisle or window seats

Southwest Airlines v. First Class

Southwest does not offerSouthwest Airlines first classseating. Instead, the airline has embraced simplicity and been a leader in making customer-friendly policies:

• No Change Fees: It is advantageous to the traveler because he is allowed to change or cancel his reservations without paying extra penalties, unlike in many airlines’ first-class ticket policies.
• Free Checked Bags: Every passenger gets two free checked bags – something that was unbelievable a while ago in air travel in general.
• Consistent In-Flight Experience: Every seat offers the same comfort standard with standard legroom and recline.
  For the weary traveler who wants flexibility and affordability, Southwest Airlines provides an experience head-on with the high-end perks of first-class travel:
• Affordable Pricing: Competitive fares bringing value without the high price tag on tickets for first class.
• Customer-Centric Policies: Flexibility in booking, liberal baggage allowances, and good customer service make Southwest extremely popular.
• Community Atmosphere: Open seating creates a more relaxed, warm, inclusive atmosphere on board.

How to Make Your Southwest Experience Fabulous

Even in the absence of a Southwest Airlines first class cabin, you can make your Southwest flight a premium experience:

• Book Business Select: For a Hassle-free Experience
• Upgrade at Check-In: For Priority Boarding to Gain Entry into Your Seat Earlier
• Pack Wisely: Use your free checked bag benefit to enhance your traveling experience

Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Airlines First Class

• Does Southwest Airlines offer first class?
  No, Southwest only has one-class seating; however, Business Select does offer premium privileges.
• What is Business Select on Southwest Airlines?
  Business Select is Southwest’s highest tier of the fare, which comes with priority boarding, more Rapid Rewards points in your account, and free drinks.
• Do I have a option of Southwest Airlines first class?
  Southwest does not come with the option for an actual first-class seat, but you can pay for priority boarding to upgrade the experience of your flight.
• Are the Southwest Airlines seats comfortable?
  For domestic flights, Southwest offers a standard comfort, with a consistent legroom in the cabin and significant recline in all seats.
• What is EarlyBird Check-In on Southwest Airlines?
  EarlyBird Check-In automatically gives you a better board position at an additional fee, thus making you more likely to get your preferred seat.

Final Thoughts on Southwest Airlines First Class

Southwest Airlines does not carry a traditional first-class. However, the airline offers a range of services aimed at making travel easier and more enjoyable for the passenger. Benefits of Business Select, as well as more flexible policies, ensure that every passenger enjoys superior service without having to pay the high price for a first-class ticket.

Book your next flight to score low fares on Southwest Airlines. Travel booking and plans can be done, or call in for general assistance at Fly Travel Board +1 (844) 539-5787. Have an affordable, customer-friendly travel experience today!