How Does Southwest Boarding Work? Process, Seating, and Family Group Tips Explained

How Does Southwest Boarding Work?

Flying with Southwest Airlines can feel refreshingly different or slightly confusing if you’re used to assigned seats. So, how does Southwest boarding work? Unlike most major U.S. airlines, Southwest doesn’t assign seats in advance. 

Instead, it follows a unique open seating policy where your boarding group and position determine when you board and which seats are available. This system rewards passengers who check in early or purchase upgrades, allowing them the first choice of seats.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain how Southwest boarding works, break down the boarding process and seating system, and share helpful tips for families, groups, and parents traveling with kids.

 Whether you’re a first-time Southwest flyer or a frequent traveler wanting to optimize your boarding experience, this article will help you navigate the process with confidence and ease.

Section	Short Overview
How does Southwest boarding work	Southwest uses open seating no assigned seats. Boarding order decides seat choice.
Boarding System	Groups A, B, C, and numbers (1–60) decide when passengers board.
Check-In Time	Check in 24 hours before the flight for a better boarding position.
Open Seating	Pick any seat when boarding; early boarders get the best spots.
Better Boarding Options	EarlyBird Check-In, Business Select, Upgraded Boarding, and A-List Status.
Family Boarding	Families with kids 6 and under board between Groups A and B.
Preboarding	Available for travelers with disabilities or medical needs.
Boarding Order	Preboarding → A Group → Family Boarding → B Group → C Group → Standby.
Seating Tips	Front = fast exit, Exit rows = legroom, Middle = quieter, Back = family-friendly.
Traveling with Kids	Bring snacks, toys, and car seats; board early for seats together.
Conclusion	Know groups, check in early, and plan for a smooth Southwest experience

Understanding the Southwest Boarding System

Southwest’s boarding process is simple once you understand the basics:

• Instead of assigned seats, passengers are given a boarding group and position (for example, A30 or B12).
• This combination determines when you board and which seats are available when you enter the aircraft.

Boarding Groups

• Southwest divides passengers into three boarding groups: A, B, and C.
• A Group boards first, after preboarding passengers.
• B Group boards after A.
• C Group boards last.

Boarding Positions

• Each boarding group has numbers ranging from 1 to 60.
• Your exact number determines when you line up within your group.
• For example, A10 boards before A45, and B5 boards before C20.
• Your boarding position appears on your boarding pass when you check in.

The Importance of Check-In Time

Your Southwest boarding position depends entirely on when you check in—not when you booked your ticket (unless you paid for an upgrade).

When Check-In Opens

You can check in 24 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure using the Southwest app, website, or an airport kiosk.

Why Timing Matters

The earlier you check in, the lower your boarding number and the better your seat selection. Even a few minutes of delay can move you from Group A to Group B or C.

Pro Tip: Set a Reminder

Set an alarm for exactly 24 hours before your flight so you can check in immediately and secure the best boarding position.

How Open Seating Works?

Southwest’s open seating policy is a key part of how its boarding system operates and helps answer the question, “How does Southwest boarding work?” Unlike most airlines, there are no assigned seats on Southwest flights; you simply pick any available seat once you board. 

Travelers can choose from window, aisle, or middle seats, and those who board earlier enjoy the best selection. This open seating approach offers flexibility, especially for solo travelers who can easily find preferred spots. However, families and groups may find it challenging to sit together if they board later, as popular seats like the front rows and exit rows fill up quickly.

Ways to Get a Better Boarding Position?

There are several ways to improve your boarding group and position. Some options are free, while others require a small upgrade.

• EarlyBird Check-In costs between $15 and $25 per person, per flight. It automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, giving you an advantage over standard check-in passengers. Typically places you in Group A or early Group B. Ideal for convenience or family travelers.
• Business Select Fare is Southwest’s top-tier fare option that guarantees an A1–A15 boarding position. It includes a complimentary premium drink and priority security access, making it best for business travelers or anyone who values early boarding.
• Upgraded Boarding is available at the gate if A1–A15 spots remain. You can purchase it for an additional fee, making it a great last-minute upgrade if you missed EarlyBird Check-In.
• A-List and A-List Preferred Members are frequent Southwest flyers with elite status who receive automatic early check-in and priority boarding at no extra cost, ensuring better seat options.

Southwest Boarding for Families

Southwest has one of the most family-friendly boarding policies among U.S. airlines.

Family Boarding Policy

Families with children aged six and under can board between the A and B groups. This gives parents time to find seats together, even if they didn’t purchase EarlyBird or Business Select.

Family Boarding Tips

Check in early anyway; sometimes A-group positions are still available.

Bring snacks, tablets, or quiet toys to keep children entertained.

Choose seats near the back if you prefer proximity to other families and restrooms.

If seats together aren’t available, flight attendants often help find spots nearby.

If Your Child Is Seven or Older

The family boarding policy no longer applies once your child turns seven. In that case, consider Early Bird Check-In for your group or purchase upgraded boarding at the gate.

Preboarding and Special Assistance

Some passengers qualify for preboarding before everyone else.

• Who Qualifies for Preboarding
  • Available for passengers with mobility limitations, disabilities, or medical conditions that require extra time.
  • Must be requested at the gate before boarding begins.
• How Preboarding Works
  • Preboarding passengers board before Group A and can choose any open seat, including front rows or aisles.
  • If needed, one travel companion may board with them.
• Preboarding Etiquette
  • It should only be used by passengers who genuinely qualify.
  • Intended for accessibility, not convenience or preference.

Understanding the Boarding Order

Knowing the order helps you anticipate when you’ll board and which seats might remain available. The typical Southwest boarding sequence begins with preboarding passengers, followed by Business Select travelers, A-List and A-List Preferred Members, EarlyBird Check-Ins, Family Boarding (for families with children six and under), and then Groups B and C. Standby passengers board last if seats remain.

Seating Strategies That Work

Choosing your seat strategically can make a big difference in comfort and convenience.

Best Seats on Southwest

Front rows let you deplane quickly.

 Exit rows provide extra legroom (available only to passengers aged 15 or older).

 Aisle seats offer easy restroom access.

 Window seats are perfect for rest or scenic views.

If You Want to Sit Together

Board early in Group A or during family boarding.

Head toward the rear; those seats fill last.

Ask politely if someone can switch seats with you to sit beside a child.

If You Want a Quieter Flight

Avoid the front galley and back restroom areas.

Choose the middle rows for less traffic and noise.

Tips for Traveling with Kids

Flying with children can be smoother when you plan and take advantage of Southwest’s flexible policies.

Smart Family Travel Tips

Bring a car seat or an FAA-approved harness for toddlers.

Pick an aisle-and-window combo to keep kids secure.

Pack entertainment, snacks, and small activities for the flight.

Use family boarding to secure seats together before the plane fills.

Bonus Advice for Older Kids

If your children are older than six, you may not qualify for family boarding. Sitting toward the rear rows can help, as middle seats there often stay open longer.

Conclusion

Understanding how Southwest boarding works can make your travel experience far more efficient and enjoyable. While the airline’s boarding process may seem unconventional at first, it’s designed for simplicity, fairness, and flexibility.

Once you know how groups, positions, and open seating operate, finding your preferred seat becomes easy. Whether you’re traveling solo, with children, or in a large group, success comes down to timing and preparation, checking in early, booking together, and taking advantage of Southwest’s family and group-friendly policies.

By mastering how Southwest boarding works, you can board confidently, secure a comfortable seat, and enjoy a smooth, stress-free start to your flight.

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