How do I get an early bird check from Southwest?

EarlyBird Check-In can be purchased on Southwest.com®, over the phone, and on the app up to 36 hours prior to a flight's scheduled local departure time, depending on availability. If EarlyBird Check-In is available, you may Purchase EarlyBird Check-In here.



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Southwest Airlines will limit its popular EarlyBird Check-In feature as part of its effort to overhaul its flying experience. Going forward, the airline is limiting the number of EarlyBird Check-In spots available to purchase on certain flights, routes, or days, Southwest confirmed to Travel + Leisure.

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Although Southwest priority boarding isn't based on the cabin class you fly, you can get the perk by:
  1. Purchasing EarlyBird Check-In or Upgraded Boarding.
  2. Carrying a credit card that offers priority boarding benefits.
  3. Purchasing a higher fare ticket.
  4. Being an elite member.


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All passengers flying in a premium cabin get priority boarding. But the group you'll be assigned to depends on which class of service you're flying. Passengers in the front cabin board with Group 1.

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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 that case, you'll board before Family Boarding, between the A and B groups.

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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.

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Senior Fares apply only to those in the traveling party who are age 65 or over. Southwest Airlines has other discounted fares for those not meeting the above age requirements.

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However, Southwest quietly announced on its website that it will phase out the senior fares this December. “As of December 11, 2019, Senior fares are no longer available for purchase,” Southwest wrote on its site. “Our customers mean everything to us.

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No. Southwest does not offer senior fares. Learn about the fare types that Southwest offers today.

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Economy passengers, including those with basic economy fares, can purchase a priority boarding add-on to enter the plane with Group 4. You can't purchase this upgrade during the initial booking process, so you'll need to add it during check-in, online or at the airport.

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You can buy Priority Boarding for one flight or your entire trip. Priority Boarding may not be available on all flights.

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If you need your carry-on bag during a long layover or prefer not to wait at a late-night baggage claim after a long day of flying, then purchasing a priority boarding upgrade may be well worth it. In essence, purchasing priority boarding is staking claim to readily accessible overhead bin space.

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Southwest® Upgraded Boardings: Each anniversary year you will be reimbursed for the purchase of up to four Upgraded Boardings which are positions A1-A15.

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Those assigned Zone A (listed on your boarding pass) are the first group of passengers to board the plane, but EarlyBird DOES NOT guarantee you Zone A boarding.

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At Southwest, we let you sit where you like. We don't assign seats on our flights, so feel free to sit in any available seat once you board the plane. We have a quick, easy, and efficient boarding process. Look at your boarding pass to find your assigned boarding group (A, B, or C) and boarding position (1 - 60).

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Southwest will accept the first two checked bags for free provided that the bags do not exceed 50 lbs and 62 inches (L+W+H). Overweight items from 51-70 pounds will cost $100.

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United Airlines United Airlines offers the best deals for seniors citizens of 65 years or older. This discount is applicable to certain destinations only. You can connect with the airlines for the complete details. Ask the airline to make your reservation as a senior.

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Public transportation – buses, metros, and trains are often the cheapest type of transportation available. Carpooling services – if you're traveling long-distance consider using apps like BlaBlaCar or Moovit to cut down on costs. Renting bikes – keep fit and save money by cycling around the town.

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