Why does Southwest use open seating?

Why does Southwest use open seating? Southwest's original goal was to turn planes quickly because a plane on the ground doesn't make money. So they offered sit-anywhere seating to try to make the process quick and easy, and on short flights people don't care as much.

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As such, we do not publish flight loads.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.

Did Southwest ever have first class?

The seats in Southwest's first class aren't any different in comfort or size than those in the rest of the aircraft. It's the complimentary offerings and extra security that puts Southwest first class above the rest of the fares.

Are all seats on Southwest the same?

Southwest's planes feature a few different types of interiors, but unfortunately there's no way of really knowing which type you'll have until you board. Within each, almost all seats on the plane are pretty much the same, with the exception of the bulkhead and exit row(s).

Can I upgrade my boarding position on Southwest after check-in?

Yes, CSAs can process the Upgraded Boarding purchase either at the ticket counter or gate. If the Customer's itinerary contains multiple flights, will Upgraded Boarding apply to every flight in their itinerary? No, Upgraded Boarding is sold separately per Customer per segment.

How strict is Southwest with family boarding?

Up to two adults traveling with a child six years old or younger may board during Family Boarding, which occurs after the “A” group has boarded and before the “B” group begins boarding. There should be enough open seats to enable the child to sit next to at least one accompanying adult.

Does Southwest ever overbook?

Overselling a flight can occur because of weight restrictions and aircraft type changes. We don't overbook as part of our philosophy of Customer-friendly policies. Will I be compensated for an oversold flight? When appropriate, we'll offer compensation when a flight is in an oversale situation.

Can you save seats on Southwest?

Re: Saving Seats Unfortunately, there's no policy to enforce. Officially, Southwest has no policy for or against seat saving, and in practice actively allows it. Reps will even suggest that passengers save seats for later boarding companions.

Is Southwest or Delta better?

If you're choosing between Delta and Southwest When you factor in earnings rates, basic economy considerations, in-flight entertainment and pet friendliness, Southwest just edges out Delta.

Is Group B good on Southwest?

If you have a B group boarding position, the chances are good that you'll still be able to get a window or aisle seat or find 2 seats together if you're traveling with a companion. Hot Tip: If you are in the B group (or even one of the first numbers in the C group), head to the back of the plane.

Is Southwest a good airline to fly?

Is Southwest upgraded boarding worth it?

Who should do it? A ticket upgrade may make sense if any of the following are true: You like the idea of boarding the plane quickly so you can choose your preferred seat and are guaranteed an A1 through A15 boarding position. You want to maximize the Rapid Rewards points that you earn.

Does checking in early get you a better seat on Southwest?

Customers who purchase an Anytime fare will automatically be checked in to their flight 36 hours prior to scheduled departure—that's 12 hours before our traditional 24-hour check-in. You will receive an earlier boarding position, improved seat selection, and earlier access to overhead bins.