How early should I get to Southwest flight?


How early should I get to Southwest flight? When do I need to arrive at the airport for my Southwest Airlines (WN) flight? Suggested arrival time: 2 hours before scheduled departure time for US domestic flights. 3 hours before scheduled departure time for international flights to/from the US.


What questions does Southwest ask for pre boarding?

When a Customer requests to preboard, our Employees will ask 1) do you need assistance boarding the aircraft? and/or 2) do you have a specific seating need to accommodate your disability?


Can you see how full a Southwest flight is?

As such, we do not publish flight loads. If for any reason you're uncomfortable traveling in the current environment and would like to discuss the flight load of your upcoming flight, we strongly encourage you to reach out to our Customer Service Department via any of the options below. Email here.


Is 1.5 hours early enough for flight?

The General Guideline for How Early You Should Get to the Airport. Generally speaking, most airlines advise that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to a domestic flight, and at least 3 hours prior to an international flight.


What happens if you don t check in 2 hours before your flight?

First, check-in closes an hour or two before flight departure; if you're not checked in by then, either through the app, online, or in person at the airport, you may not be able to get a boarding pass to get through security and will likely miss your flight.


Why do international flights arrive 3 hours early?

Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport three hours before departure for international flights. It's common for international flights to start boarding earlier than domestic flights (the aircraft are often larger and have higher passenger capacities), which accounts for the earlier recommendation.


Do I really need to arrive 3 hours before a flight?

The general guideline on how early to get to the airport for a domestic flight is 2 hours. However, those traveling at a very busy time of year or out of a large airport might want to allow more time.


What is the fastest way to check-in on Southwest?

If you purchase EarlyBird Check-In, we'll automatically check you in and reserve your boarding position 36 hours before you flight's departure. This is before our general 24-hour check-in begins.


Does Southwest assign seats?

At Southwest, we let you sit where you like. We don't assign seats on our flights, so feel free to sit in any available seat once you board the plane. We have a quick, easy, and efficient boarding process. Look at your boarding pass to find your assigned boarding group (A, B, or C) and boarding position (1 - 60).


What time should I be at the airport for a 6AM flight?

For starters, consider booking flights as early in the morning as you possibly can. Not only will this help you avoid potential delays, but it can also save you time in traffic. If you book a 6AM domestic flight, for example, you'll need to arrive at the airport by 4AM.


Should I check in online or at the airport?

Checking in online is far more convenient than checking in at the airport. However, if you have to check in special luggage such as bulky goods or a pet, you should rather use the classic method.


Can I arrive 45 minutes before my flight?

To check-in and check bags at the airport, you must be there a certain amount of time before scheduled departure: Within the U.S. – 45 minutes. To or from destinations outside the U.S. – 60 minutes.


Why does Southwest not assign seats?

Southwest Airlines has long argued that its unassigned seating policy is popular with passengers and facilitates speedier boarding. That means planes spend less time at the gate and more time in the air generating Southwest money. Over the years, the airline has tinkered with the no-system boarding system.


How do I get priority boarding on Southwest?

How to get Southwest priority boarding
  1. Purchase EarlyBird Check-In.
  2. Purchase Upgraded Boarding.
  3. Book the right fare class.
  4. Carry select Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards.
  5. Reach elite status with Southwest.
  6. Travel as a family.
  7. Use your military benefits.


How early is too early for a flight?

There's no fixed time given by the airport stating how early passengers can go through the security check. But for a guarantee of minimal stress, arriving 2-4 hours early is recommended. If you want, you can even travel 6 hours ahead. It's wise to give yourself some cushion for ease of mind.


Is Southwest a good airline to fly?

Southwest Is A Safe Airline
They are a favorite among travelers looking for cheap flights without having to compromise on comfort or security. According to the most recent list of the world's safest airlines, Southwest was ranked in the top 15 airlines in the world in 2021, even beating out Delta, American, and United.


Do you really need to arrive 2 hours before a flight?

Generally speaking, most airlines advise that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to a domestic flight, and at least 3 hours prior to an international flight. That said, there are many factors to consider that will help you decide how much time you should budget for at the airport.


Is 2.5 hours enough time for international flight?

The General Guideline for How Early You Should Get to the Airport. Generally speaking, most airlines advise that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to a domestic flight, and at least 3 hours prior to an international flight.