While flying with Southwest Airlines, the most amazing feature is its boarding process. Unlike other airlines, Southwest manages a first come, first serve boarding policy and has different Southwest Airlines Boarding Groups. This might seem a little confusing. But once you understand the technicalities of Southwest boarding groups, the process will look a lot simpler. Whether you are a first-time traveller or a frequent flyer, this blog will guide you through the details of the Southwest Airlines boarding process, group, benefits and more. Southwest Airlines Group Boarding has many advantages. Let’s take a closer look at the details of Southwest Boarding Groups and its whole working system to maximize its utilization.
How Many Boarding Groups Are Offered By Southwest Airlines?
Southwest Airlines assigns three boarding groups (A, B, or C). There are six check-in batches under these A1 to A30, A31-A60, B1 to B30, B31-B60, C1 to C30, and C31-C-60. These groups divide all passengers into different sets. The sets might influence your sitting and give you a better boarding experience. Here is some detailed information about Southwest Boarding Group.
- Group A
Group A, the first boarding group, consists of early check-in, business affairs, and A-list members. Thus, group A members get to board the plane as soon as possible and can choose the seat that is suitable for them.
- Group B
Southwest Airlines Early Bird Boarding Group B, boards the plane after Group A and offers general boarding passes. These boarding passes are given when the passengers are eligible for early check-in but are in Group A. But if you upgrade your pass, you can move to Group A.
- Group C
Group C is the final Boarding Groups Southwest Airlines. The passengers who have checked in late or have bought ‘Want Get Away Fares’ are included in this group. It offers the cheapest price for the tickets. The passengers in this group are the last ones to make their seat choices.
What is the boarding order with Southwest Airlines?
While traveling with Southwest, it is important to know the boarding order on Southwest. The passengers must know it to complete the boarding process precisely.
Preboarding-
Passengers who require help with disabilities, families with children under six or unaccompanied minors get early boarding. This makes sure that you get sufficient time to settle comfortably.
Family Boarding and Seating-
Traveling with Southwest Airlines boarding groups, family, and seating includes a six-year-old or a younger child. For further information, you must check the official website, but here are some important points to focus on.
- If two adults are travelling with a six-year-old, they will receive family boarding facilities and Group A or B boarding services in a blink.
- The passengers can take open-boarding seats to sit with their children. All you have to do is elect a family boarding group and boarding passes. Then, they can board according to the assigned boarding positions.
- When travelling with a 13-year-old child, passengers can request a seat for the child next to them without any extra charges.
Business-
While flying with business class fares, passengers can board the plane after the preboarding group and select their preferred seats in the front row. Passengers might also get boarding sequences through general boarding, early-boarding or late arrivals. Then, complete the Boarding Groups Southwest Airlines easily.
Can A Passenger Upgrade Their Boarding Position?
Yes, the passengers are allowed to upgrade their boarding position with Southwest Airlines boarding groups. You can go for ‘Upgraded Boarding Position’ at the airport ticket counter or from the departure gate. This can be done on the departure day or 24 hours before the departure. You can also buy early-bird check-in. You might not get Group A boarding position but will definitely get to board before the other passengers.
Understanding the process of Boarding Groups Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines boarding groups process might be a little complicated, but it can be made simpler with the points below.
- Seat Selection- Always decide your preferred seats beforehand. The best seats on Southwest Flights are generally in the exit rows or the bulkhead seats. These seats have more legroom space and are in the front of the plane.
- Walk Fast on the Aisle- After you board the airplane, walk fast down the aisle to search for your preferred seat. This way, your boarding will be much smoother.
- Quickly Store your Luggage- Try keeping your carry-on bag quickly to avoid blockage in the aisle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Southwest Airlines Boarding Groups may appear very complex, but one should understand the pattern of Groups A, B, and C. The Group A boards are first, then Group B, while Group C boards are last. Families, passengers who need assistance, and business class passengers are boarded first. Those wanting to upgrade may buy early check-in or upgraded boarding. By planning, choosing your seat, getting through the aisle quickly, and storing luggage in an efficient manner. You can make boarding a simpler and more enjoyable experience.
Read More: Southwest Airlines Group Travel