How Does Southwest Boarding Work?

Southwest Airlines does not assign seats. Passengers board in a specific order and choose any available seat once on the plane.

Have you ever wondered how Southwest boarding groups turn seat selection into a stress-free game? No seat assignments, no last-minute scrambles—just an innovative system that keeps things smooth. But how does it all work? Let's unlock the secrets so you can board like a pro and claim the perfect seat with ease.

How does boarding work on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines is transitioning from open seating to assigned seating starting in early 2026. Passengers will select seats during booking, with premium options offering extra legroom for an additional fee. A-list and Southwest A-list priority boarding members will enjoy complimentary access to preferred and extra-legroom seats, respectively. Despite these changes, Southwest boarding groups will continue to offer two free checked bags and maintain its customer-friendly policies.

FlyO Tip: Pay $30 per segment to grab an A1-A15 spot, ensuring early boarding and better seats.

What is Southwest boarding policy?

Southwest uses an open seating policy with three Southwest Airlines boarding groups (A, B, C) and numbered positions (1-60). Southwest boarding groups allow all passengers to board in order and choose any available seat. Southwest Airlines early bird boarding group B is an option for those who want an improved position without manual check-in.

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Southwest Family Boarding Policy

Southwest family boarding policy ensures families with young children can sit together. Here's what you need to know:

• For kids 6 or younger: Up to two adults can board after Group A and before Group B to sit together. If you have Group A passes, board at your assigned spot.
• For kids 7 to 13: Southwest will try to seat them next to an adult (14+) if you ask, at no extra cost.

Need help? Just talk to a Gate Agent or Flight Attendant before Southwest boarding time.

Southwest Military Boarding Policy

Southwest Airlines groups proudly support active-duty U.S. military members. 🇺🇸 If you have a valid military ID but did not receive an A-list Southwest Boarding Pass, you are welcome to board between Groups A and B. Simply check in at the gate, and the staff will assist you for a smooth boarding experience.

Read More: How Can I Book Southwest Multi-City Flights?

How many boarding groups does Southwest have?

Southwest Airlines has three boarding groups: A, B, and C, with positions 1-60 in each. Passengers board in order to choose any available seat. Early check-in or upgrades can improve your position.

FlyO Tip: Most travelers can use a mobile boarding pass! Exceptions include lap infants, Unaccompanied Minors, specific international routes, and military and government fares.

How to get better Southwest boarding positions?

To improve your Southwest boarding positions, check in exactly 24 hours before departure, purchase Southwest Airlines early bird boarding, or upgrade to Southwest priority boarding. Passengers can also buy Southwest Upgraded Boarding (A1-A15) within 24 hours of departure.

Here's the Southwest boarding order for all passengers, from first to last:

• Preboarding: Passengers needing extra time or disability accommodations board first. Request Southwest Airlines preboarding at the ticket counter or gate. A companion may join, but exit-row seating is not allowed.
• Group A (A1-A15): Includes Business Select passengers, elite flyers, and those who purchase Upgraded Boarding. A16-60 follows in order.
• Other Passengers with Disabilities: Those needing extra time (but not preboarding) board after Group A and before Family Boarding. Request assistance at the gate.
• Family & Military Boarding: Families with children 6 or younger and active-duty military in uniform board before Group B.
• Groups B & C: General boarding continues numerically from Southwest Boarding Group B 30 Position to C60. C group usually boards last on full flights.

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FlyO Tip: Flying with 10 or more people? Southwest's Group Travel Program offers discounts, flexible booking, and no blackout dates. Easy and affordable.

How do you get a boarding pass for Southwest Airlines?

You can get your Southwest Airlines boarding pass by checking in online at the official website or through the mobile app starting 24 hours before departure. You can also print it at an airport kiosk or request one at the ticket counter.

Here's how you can access your boarding pass:

✔ Online/Mobile App: Check in at the official website or the Southwest app 24 hours before departure and download the Southwest Air Boarding Pass Print.

✔ Airport Kiosk: Enter your confirmation number or scan your ID at a self-service kiosk to print your pass.

✔ Ticket Counter: Show your ID or booking details at the Southwest ticket counter to get your pass.

Learn More: Southwest Airlines Liquid Policy, Rules & Restrictions!

How to get Southwest Airlines priority boarding?

Want to get the Southwest Airlines boarding procedure? Southwest Airlines provides multiple ways to secure priority boarding and get better seat options:

• Southwest App – Receive a check-in reminder 24 hours before departure.
• EarlyBird Check-In – Enjoy automatic check-in before the standard 24-hour window.
• Upgraded Boarding – Upgrade to an A1-A15 position when available, starting 24 hours before departure.
• Business Select – Get a guaranteed A1-A15 boarding spot for priority seating.

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FlyO Tip: Cancel your wanna get away fare at least 10 minutes before departure to avoid losing all unused funds as a no-show passenger.

How to qualify for early boarding on Southwest Airlines?

You can qualify for early boarding by purchasing business select fares, upgrading to an A1-A15 position, or having an A-List/A-List preferred status. Passengers requiring preboarding due to disabilities receive a PRBD-marked pass.

Read More: Southwest Airlines Pet Policy: How to Fly with Your Furry Friend?

What are some of the best tips to board faster on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines has an open seating policy, meaning the earlier you board, the better your seat choices. Here's how to secure a significant Southwest boarding number:

1️⃣ Book Business Select

Want to be among the first on the plane? Business select fares guarantee an A1-A15 boarding spot, giving you priority access to better seats and overhead bin space.

2️⃣ Upgrade Your Boarding Position

Didn't book business select? No worries! You can pay $30-$80 per segment at check-in (if available) to upgrade to an A1-A15 spot and board earlier.

3️⃣ Check-in Exactly 24 Hours Before Departure

Since Southwest assigns boarding positions based on check-in time, setting a reminder to check in at the 24-hour mark can help you snag a good spot.

4️⃣ Purchase EarlyBird Check-In

For $15-$25 one way, Southwest will automatically check you in before the 24-hour window, giving you a better position than those checking in manually.

5️⃣ Earn A-List or A-List Preferred Status

Frequent flyers who qualify for A-List or A-List preferred get priority check-in and early boarding, ensuring a better boarding position without needing EarlyBird Check-In.

6️⃣ Take Advantage of Family Boarding

If you're traveling with a child under 6, your family can board between A and B groups, even if you didn't score an A boarding pass.

7️⃣ Request Preboarding if Needed

Passengers with disabilities or special needs can request preboarding at the gate and receive a PRBD-marked boarding pass for early access. However, preboarders cannot sit in exit row seats.

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Learn More: What is Allowed in Carry-On Baggage on Southwest Airlines?

Closing Thoughts

Mastering the Southwest Airlines boarding process ensures a stress-free journey with the best seat choices. Knowing the rules gives you an edge, whether you're aiming for Southwest priority boarding, family boarding, or prime Southwest boarding groups.

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