When a Customer requests to preboard, our Employees will ask 1) do you need assistance boarding the aircraft? and/or 2) do you have a specific seating need to accommodate your disability?

To qualify for pre-boarding on Southwest in 2026, the Operations Agent at the gate will typically ask if the customer needs assistance boarding, stowing accessibility equipment, or requires a specific seat to accommodate a disability. Southwest’s policy is based on self-identification; passengers with disabilities who need additional time or a specific location—such as the front of the plane for proximity to the lavatory or for easier transfer—may board before Group A. One travel companion is permitted to board with the qualifying individual. It is important to note that this is different from TSA PreCheck, which is a security screening benefit. For pre-boarding, you should speak with the agent at the gate before the general boarding process begins to ensure your needs are documented and that you are ready when the "Pre-boarding" announcement is made.