(August 10, 2023) When it comes to flying, one of the aspects that passengers often have strong opinions about is seat selection. We’re used to the routine of choosing our seats either during the booking process or having them assigned to us closer to the travel date. However, there’s an outlier in the airline industry – Southwest Airlines. This unconventional carrier offers a different approach to seating that has both its proponents and its critics.
The Open Seating System
Southwest Airlines (LUV) is known for its open seating system, a departure from the norm of assigned seating that most major airlines follow. Instead of choosing a seat during booking or getting one assigned closer to departure, Southwest passengers select their seats as they board the plane. This system can be a source of both excitement and anxiety for travelers, offering a unique flying experience that sets Southwest apart from its competitors.
The Boarding Group and Number Game
When you fly with Southwest, you’re assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a number from 1 to 60. Those who need extra assistance are given priority boarding in the A1-15 group. High-tier members of the Southwest Rewards loyalty program are also automatically checked in, usually securing them a spot in the A group. If they miss the A group, they’ll join the B group just ahead of families traveling with young children.
For passengers without loyalty status, check-in begins 24 hours before the flight. The order in which you check-in determines your boarding position. This means that forgetting to check in right at the 24-hour mark could leave you at the back of the line, possibly resulting in a middle seat and limited overhead bin space.
Options for Better Seating
If you’re eyeing a more favorable boarding position, Southwest offers a couple of options. Unsold A1-15 positions are available for purchase up until flight time, and there’s the “Early Bird Check-In” service. This service automatically checks you in and generally gets you a spot in the A group.
Changes in the Air
However, change is on the horizon for Southwest’s seating system. Starting August 15, the airline will adjust its offerings. An internal memo states that Early Bird Check-In will no longer be available on all flights. This means that some passengers looking to purchase it might find it unavailable. The memo also mentions the airline’s efforts to modernize customer experience and align its fare and ancillary products with its strategic priorities.
This adjustment may guide passengers towards more expensive fare options like Business Select or Upgraded Boarding, both of which remain subject to availability. Passengers purchasing “Anytime” fares will still have Early Bird Check-In included as part of the fare benefits.
The Potential Impact
This change raises some questions about the implications for Southwest passengers. On one hand, it offers the possibility of generating more revenue for the airline. On the other hand, it ensures that passengers who invest in Early Bird Check-In won’t be left disappointed if they end up with a less favorable boarding position.
As Southwest Airlines continues to evolve, these changes reflect its commitment to its strategic priorities and customer experience enhancement. Travelers will need to adapt to these adjustments and explore the options that best suit their travel preferences and priorities.
So, the next time you find yourself booking a flight with Southwest Airlines, embrace the open seating experience. Whether it’s a dash to the front of the line or a laid-back stroll towards the back, it’s all part of the journey that sets Southwest apart from the rest of the airline industry.