Book a Southwest Airlines flight? Well, you’re probably in question as to the Southwest Airlines seat selection process. If you want the great seat, Southwest airlines operates on an open seating policy. There is, therefore, a need for understanding when and how you can choose your seat. Here’s all you should know about getting the seat you want on your Southwest Airlines flight.
Why Southwest Airlines Seat Selection is Unique?
Most airlines are different because South West Airlines do not practice assigned seating. In fact, the SouthWest Airlines seat selection operates on an open-seating method. Passengers board the flight in groups of several hundred people. Once these passengers get onto a particular flight, they can sit in any seat of choice aboard. This means that the seat you’ll sit in depends on your boarding position. Your boarding position depends on when you check in or bought an upgrade to a better boarding position.
How Does Southwest Airlines Seat Selection Work?
Southwest assigns boarding positions in one of three groups, A, B, or C. The later your assigned boarding group and position, the later you’ll board and the fewer choices of seats may be available. If you are in Group A, you can choose from the best selection; if you are in Group C, you will not have as many options.
To best utilize Southwest Airlines seat selection, check in early or pay for upgraded boarding. Here are the choices:
1. EarlyBird Check-In
EarlyBird Check-In means Southwest Airlines will automatically check you in up to 36 hours prior to your flight. It does not give you an A boarding position but makes it more likely, so you get more opportunities at your seat.
2. Upgraded Boarding
If you want to lock in a confirmed A1-A15 boarding position, Southwest does have the option of Upgraded Boarding, which can be purchased on your day of travel, if available. It’s also a great way to ensure you get a window or aisle seat or are closer to the front of the plane.
3. Business Select® Fares
Business Select fares have the highest boarding priority and are secured within A1-A15 positions. This is perfect if you want the best seat selection and added perks, such as free premium drink and extra Rapid Rewards points.
When Can You Check-In for Southwest Airlines Seat Selection?
Southwest Airlines opens its seat selection according to the boarding group established at check-in. Find when to check in for the best seats: Find when to check in for the best seats:
General Check-In: You can check-in online or through the Southwest application up to 24 hours before your flight and reserve your boarding position. Furthermore, you have to check in correctly at exactly the 24-hour mark for you to have a better chance of getting an earlier boarding group.
EarlyBird Check-In ®: EarlyBird Check-In ® allows you to check into a flight automatically up to 36 hours before hand. That’s a great lead in the race against all the other general check-ins. It is one of the simplest ways of making boarding position better without having to memorize when it is time to check-in on your own.
Business Select® and Upgraded Boarding: Passengers that book Business Select or Upgraded Boarding are confirmed in the highly coveted A1 through A15 boarding positions, regardless of the time of check-in.
Is Southwest Airlines Seat Selection Right for You?
Southwest’s open seating : It is a fun and efficient way to board if you’re flexible about where you sit, but if you have special preferences – like an aisle seat or sitting with friends or family – you’ll want to check in early or invest in EarlyBird Check-In or Upgraded Boarding.
If you would like a window seat or more legroom, plan ahead for that. Noting that passengers with special needs require more time or help are seated first and that can be quite convenient for those requiring help.
Frequently Asked Questions about Southwest Airlines Seat Selection
- Does Southwest Airlines assign seats?
No, Southwest Airlines does not assign seats beforehand. The passenger chooses seats in the order received for boarding. - Can I buy my way to choose my seat on Southwest?
Southwest doesn’t allow preassigned seating, but you can upgrade to EarlyBoarding and Business Select, which enables you to board early and have your choice of seats. - How do I get the earliest possible board times on Southwest?
Checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight is your best possible option. Or, you can purchase EarlyBird Check-In to automatically check-in 36 hours prior and get the best possible board time. Another option is to buy Upgraded Boarding. - Can I sit with my family on Southwest flights?
Southwest allows families with children under the age of 6 to board between Group A and Group B, that way the family is much more likely to sit together. - Is EarlyBird Check-In worth it?
If having a good seat is important to you, if you like the convenience of automatic check-in then EarlyBird Check-In may be worth the cost to you.
Maximize the Benefits of Southwest Airlines Seat Selection
Southwest Airlines seat selection can make or break your trip. By checking in early or by purchasing one of Southwest’s boarding options, you can lock in the seat of your choice. Are you having some trouble booking your flight or do you just want to guarantee a hassle-free flight? Call Fly Travel Board at +1 (844) 539-5787 cand get connected with a travel specialist who’s here to assist you in booking your flight, provide tips on redeeming your Southwest Airlines gift cards and answer any questions you have regarding flying with Southwest.
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