Process of Seat Selection on Southwest Airlines from Airfare Policies's blog

One of the frequently asked questions by travelers flying with Southwest Airlines is: "Can you pick your seats on Southwest?" The answer lies in the unique boarding and seating process that Southwest employs, distinct from most other airlines. This article aims to demystify the seat selection process on Southwest-operated flights, providing passengers with a clear understanding of how to secure their preferred seats.

Understanding Southwest's Open Seating Policy

Southwest Airlines operates on an open seating policy, which means there are no pre-assigned seats. Once onboard, passengers have the freedom to choose any available seat. This approach offers a degree of flexibility that is quite rare in the airline industry, where assigned seating is the norm.

Boarding Process

The key to getting your preferred seat on Southwest lies in the boarding process. Southwest's boarding positions are determined by the order of check-in. The earlier you check in, the earlier your boarding group and position, which subsequently allows you earlier access to the cabin to choose your Southwest Airlines seat.

Onboard Seat Selection

Once you step onto the plane, you can select any open seat. Whether you prefer a window, aisle, or middle seat, you're free to make your choice based on what's available at the time of boarding. You can also decide whether you want to be at the front, middle, or back of the plane. Just remember to stow your carryon items in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Strategies for Securing Your Preferred Seat

Since there are no extra fees for seat selection on Southwest, your strategy for securing your preferred seat largely depends on obtaining a favorable boarding position.

EarlyBird Check-In

For those who want to improve their chances of getting a preferred seat, Southwest offers EarlyBird Check-In. This paid service automatically checks you in 36 hours before your flight, giving you a better boarding position and, consequently, a broader selection of seats to choose from when you board.

Checking in Early

Without extra services, the best way to get a good seat is to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight, as this is when check-in opens for all passengers. Being prompt can secure you a better position in the boarding queue.

Business Select Fare

Another option is purchasing a Business Select fare, which guarantees you one of the first boarding positions. This is a more costly option but can be valuable for those who have specific seating preferences or need to ensure they have space for carry-on luggage overhead.

Conclusion

The question "Can you pick your seats on Southwest?" opens up an exploration into the airline's unique and customer-friendly seating policy. By allowing passengers to choose their seats upon boarding, Southwest provides a flexible and straightforward approach to air travel. Whether you're a planner who prefers to secure your seat with EarlyBird Check-In or a more spontaneous traveler who's comfortable selecting from what's available when you board, Southwest's seating policy is designed to accommodate a variety of preferences and ensure a comfortable journey for all passengers.