Ever wonder why Southwest doesn’t have seat numbers when you check in? That’s their open seating policy in action. I learned this the hard way when I showed up late for a flight to Denver and ended up in a middle seat between two snoring passengers. Not fun.
How Southwest's Unique Seating System Actually Works
Southwest’s seating policy is completely different from other airlines. No assigned seats at all. Instead, you get a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position number (1-60). Your boarding group determines when you get on the plane. A-group boards first, then B, then C. Within each group, it's numerical order.
My first time flying Southwest, I totally misunderstood the boarding process. I had a B15 boarding pass and thought I could just jump in whenever. Big mistake. I ended up scrambling for overhead bin space and sitting near the bathrooms.
Breaking Down Boarding Groups
| Boarding Group | Approximate Boarding Position | Seat Availability |
|---|---|---|
| A1-A60 | Boards first | Any seat including exit rows and front cabin |
| B1-B60 | After A-group | Limited window/aisle seats, mostly middle seats remain |
| C1-C60 | Last to board | Middle seats only, possible separated groups |
Here's the deal: if you’re in C-group, don’t expect to sit with your travel buddies unless you pay for upgrades. The Southwest seating policy really pushes you to check in exactly 24 hours before departure.
Pro tip: Set multiple alarms for check-in. I use my phone calendar AND Alexa reminders because once I missed check-in by 10 minutes and got stuck with C-group. Never again.
Getting the Best Spot: Your Upgrade Options
Want A-group? You've got paid and free options. Here’s what actually works based on my 20+ Southwest flights last year:
EarlyBird Check-In: Is It Worth $25?
EarlyBird automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure. Sounds great, but...
- Usually lands you in early B-group (positions B1-B20)
- Does NOT guarantee A-group
- Not refundable if flight changes
Personally, I think EarlyBird is overrated unless you absolutely can’t check in yourself. I’ve seen families pay $100+ for EarlyBird only to get B15-B30 positions.
Upgraded Boarding: The Secret Weapon
This is how you grab A1-A15 positions:
- Available at airport ticket counter/gate day of flight
- Cost: $30-$50 per person each way
- Limited availability (first come, first served)
Real talk: I once scored A3 position for $40 on a packed flight to Vegas. Totally worth it for overhead space alone. But you gotta ask early - they only sell about 15 upgrades per flight.
Free Ways to Beat the Southwest Seating System
You don’t always have to pay. Here’s how to work the Southwest seating policy in your favor:
Business Select Tickets
These include:
- Guaranteed A1-A15 boarding
- Free premium drink
- Same-day flight change flexibility
Costs about 30-40% more than Wanna Get Away fares. Only makes sense for business travelers - vacationers should skip this.
A-List Status Perks
Fly 25 one-way flights or earn 35,000 tier qualifications annually and you get:
| A-List Benefit | Regular Passenger | A-List Member |
|---|---|---|
| Boarding Position | Based on check-in time | Auto A1-A36 boarding |
| Same-Day Changes | $0 fee but fare difference | Free confirmed changes |
My cousin flies weekly for work and swears by A-List. Says it’s the only reason she tolerates the Southwest seating policy.
Family Boarding and Special Situations
Traveling with kids? Southwest has a hidden gem:
- Family boarding occurs after A-group but before B-group
- Available for adults traveling with children 6 and under
- Maximum two adults per child
Watch out: I've seen gate agents turn away families with older kids during family boarding. If your kids are 7+, you need to check in together like everyone else.
Preboarding for Disabilities
Southwest offers preboarding for passengers who:
- Need specific seats due to disabilities
- Require assistance boarding/stowing equipment
- Need to board before the crowd for medical reasons
Just notify gate agents - no documentation required. Much simpler than other airlines.
Southwest vs Other Airlines: Seating Showdown
| Airline | Seating Model | Seat Selection Fee | Family Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest | Open seating policy | Free (via upgrades) | Family boarding |
| Delta | Assigned seats | $10-$50+ | No special boarding |
| United | Assigned seats | $8-$60+ | Children under 12 seated with parents |
| American | Assigned seats | $9-$75+ | Children under 15 seated with parents |
The Southwest seating approach saves money but adds boarding stress. I prefer it for short flights but hate it for cross-country trips.
Southwest Seating Policy FAQ
Can I save seats on Southwest flights?
Technically no, but people try. I once saw a guy put coats on three seats "for his family." Caused a 10-minute argument. Don't be that person - the unwritten rule is one passenger can save one seat.
What happens if I'm traveling with a group?
Check in together at exactly 24 hours pre-flight. If anyone misses the check-in window, they'll board later. For large groups (6+), assume you'll be split up unless you all get A-group positions.
Are exit row seats available to everyone?
Yes! Unlike other airlines, Southwest doesn't charge for exit rows. Just be physically capable and willing to assist in emergencies. First come, first served during boarding.
What's the best seat on Southwest planes?
Personal preference really. I love exit rows for legroom. Window lovers should aim for rows 8-10 on 737-800s - best views. Avoid seats near lavatories unless you enjoy smell and traffic.
Seating Survival Guide: Pro Tips from Frequent Fliers
After dozens of Southwest flights, here's my battle-tested advice:
- Check-in hack: Use multiple devices at T-24 hours. Phones often check in faster than computers
- Gate agent magic: If traveling with teens, politely ask if they can board with you during family boarding. Sometimes works!
- Seat maps matter: Study your aircraft type (700 vs 800 vs MAX) - exit rows vary
- Late flight trick: Flights after 8pm often have lighter loads - better seat options even with B-group
Fun fact: Southwest’s open seating policy actually speeds up boarding by 15% compared to assigned seating. But man, it feels chaotic when you're dragging carry-on through a packed aisle!
The Dark Side of Open Seating
Let's be real - the Southwest seating policy isn't perfect. My pet peeves:
- "Seat hoarders" who spread belongings across multiple seats
- The mad scramble when Group B boards - feels like Black Friday at Walmart
- No guarantee of sitting with your travel companions
- Limited overhead space for C-group passengers
Last Thanksgiving, I witnessed two passengers nearly come to blows over an overhead bin. The Southwest seating approach definitely creates tension.
Is Southwest's Policy Changing Soon?
Rumors swirl every year about Southwest assigning seats. But based on their 2023 investor report:
- No plans to eliminate open seating
- Testing assigned seats on Hawaii routes? (Unconfirmed)
- Potential family seating guarantees by 2024 due to new DOT regulations
Personally, I doubt they'll fully abandon their signature system. The Southwest seating policy is too central to their brand identity.
Final Thoughts: Making Peace with Open Seating
The Southwest seating policy is like Marmite - you love it or hate it. After initially despising it, I've learned to game the system:
- Always set check-in alarms
- Consider Upgraded Boarding for flights over 3 hours
- Embrace middle seats for short hops
- Travel light to avoid bin stress
Would I prefer assigned seats? Absolutely. But Southwest's prices and flexibility keep me coming back. Once you master their unique Southwest seating approach, it's not so bad. Well, except when you're stuck in 32F next to a crying baby. But that's air travel for you.
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