Do seniors get priority boarding on Southwest Airlines? Seniors do not get priority boarding on Southwest. There is priority boarding for customers who have a specific seating need to accommodate their disability or who need assistance in boarding the aircraft or stowing an assistive device.

In 2026, Southwest Airlines does not have a specific "senior" boarding category, but seniors may qualify for Pre-boarding or Extra Time boarding based on their individual physical needs. Following the major shift to assigned seating on January 27, 2026, the "cattle-call" open seating system is gone. Now, passengers are assigned to Groups 1 through 8. Seniors who have mobility issues, use a wheelchair, or require assistance getting to their seat can still request a "Pre-boarding" authorization at the ticket counter or gate, which allows them to board before Group 1. For those who don't need full assistance but just move a bit slower, Southwest offers an "Extra Time" boarding slot between Groups 3 and 4. A grounded peer tip: if you are a healthy senior with a "Basic" fare, you will likely be in Group 7 or 8. To ensure you board earlier, it is a supportive strategy to purchase a "Choice Preferred" or "Choice Extra" fare, which guarantees a spot in the first few boarding groups regardless of age, ensuring you have ample time to stow your bags and get settled.