Everything About Southwest Airlines Seating | FaresMatch

Southwest Airlines Seating – What You Need to Know

Blog       Southwest Airlines Seating – What You Need to Know


southwest-airlines-seating

Going to fly with Southwest Airlines and not sure about the seating and other things which are important for your comfort means you need to check everything about Southwest airlines seating. Understanding the seating process helps you have a comfortable and stress-free journey. Unlike other airlines, the airline does not offer assigned seating, but there are still some methods to secure the best seats for your needs. Whether you are looking for extra legroom, a window view, or seats together with family, here is everything that you should know.

1. Best Seats on Southwest Airlines

Yes, the aircraft are typically Boeing 737 models, offering different seating experiences based on your preferences. There are also different rows and seats in the airline.

Front Rows and Exit Rows

First is the front rows and exit row. The extra legroom and faster exit after landing. Therefore, this is the most premium seating option that you can choose for the booking of Southwest Airlines flights.

Aisle Seats

These seats are good for easy access to the restroom; if you don’t walk so long for the restroom again and again, then Aisle seats are the right choice for you to enjoy quick boarding and deplaning.

Window seats

Window seats at Southwest Airlines are perfect for travelers who enjoy the view or prefer to rest.

Back Rows

The back rows of Southwest Airlines are often the last to fill up, giving you a higher chance of securing an empty seat next to you.

2. How to Get the Best Seat on Southwest Airlines?

Another thing is the best seat on Southwest Airlines. Since Southwest uses an open seating policy and your boarding position to determine your seat choice, here is everything to know.

Early Check-In

You need to do the early check-in first because the online check-in opens 24 hours before departure. The earlier you check-in, the better your boarding position.

Purchase Early Bird Check-In

There is also a paid option for passengers. These options automatically check you in before general check-in and improve your boarding position.

Fly Business Select

Passengers in Business Select Fares can also get priority boarding, which guarantees early access to seats. You need to sit near the front for a quick exit, and if you want to get off the plane faster, aim for seats near the front.

3. Southwest Airlines Seating for Families and Groups

There are different types of seating options available for the family and groups, and here are these -

Family Boarding – Families with children 6 years or younger can board between Group A and B, ensuring they sit together.

Saving Seats – While unofficial, many travelers save seats for family or friends. This works best when boarding in an earlier group.

Companion Pass Seating: If you have a Companion Pass, both travelers should check in simultaneously for better seat choices.

4. Extra Comfort & Accessibility Seating

You can get the extra comfort and accessibility seating with the priority seating because the airline accommodates passengers with disabilities and special needs and allows them to pre-board. You can also choose the exit row seats and available to travelers who meet the safety requirements (must be 15+ and physically able to assist in emergencies). Another seat is a bulkhead seat, which is located at the front of the cabin; these seats offer more legroom but have no under-seat storage.

The Bottom Line

Flying with Southwest Airlines means understanding its open seating policy, where passengers choose their seats after boarding. While there are no assigned seats, passengers can still get the best spots by checking in early, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, or flying Business Select.

For extra comfort, the front rows and exit rows offer more legroom, while aisle seats provide easy access to the restroom. Window seats are great for travelers who want a view or prefer to rest, and back rows might be the best option for securing an empty seat next to you. Families with children under 6 can board earlier to sit together, and passengers with disabilities get priority seating. By planning ahead, passengers can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.

FAQs

Does Southwest Airlines assign seats?

No, Southwest Airlines follows an open seating policy, meaning seats are chosen after boarding, based on boarding position.

How can I get a better seat on Southwest Airlines?

Check-in as early as possible (24 hours before departure) or purchase EarlyBird Check-In to get a better boarding position.

What are the best seats on Southwest Airlines?

The front rows and exit rows offer extra legroom, while aisle seats provide quick access to the restroom. Window seats are great for enjoying the view, and back row seats might have empty spots next to them.

Can families sit together on Southwest flights?

Yes! Families with children under 6 can board between Groups A and B to ensure they sit together.

Does Southwest Airlines offer priority seating?

Yes, passengers with disabilities can pre-board, and Business Select passengers get priority boarding to choose their seats early.

Latest Blogs