Southwest Airlines provides the best services and flexibility, but sometimes it’s boarding process can be confusing. This airline doesn’t assign seats during the flight booking like other flight carriers. Additionally, the time at which passengers check in determines their positions in the specified boarding groups (A, B, and C). Southwest’s EarlyBird Check-In services are useful in this situation. In this blog, you get to know about EarlyBird Check-in, how it works, its fees, and other information.
What is Southwest EarlyBird Check-In?
EarlyBird Check-In is an optional service provided by Southwest Airlines for travelers comfort. Additionally, passengers can secure the early boarding without checking manually exactly 24 hours before the departure. When passengers purchase Early Bird Check-In, Southwest automatically assigns their boarding position 36 hours before their flight, and they can get their desired seating place.
In case the flight will depart at 6:30 a.m., EarlyBird Check-in removes the rush allowing you to check in 12 hours before standard check-in. Meanwhile, passengers having non-priority tickets like Wanna Get Away Fares also get more chances to obtain preferred seating. It’s particularly beneficial for those who are busy, anxious travelers and are traveling with their families.
How Does Southwest’s EarlyBird Check-In Work?
While boarding the flight, you can take advantage of Southwest’s optional Early Bird Check-In services. It increases your chances of obtaining a better seat by automating the check-in procedure.
- To take advantage of this service, choose Southwest Early Bird Check-In when making your reservation.
- Instead of the customary 24-hour pre-flight check-in, the system automatically checks you 36 hours before your flight if you have chosen to do so.
- You will receive an email well in advance having the details of your boarding position. Meanwhile, printing your boarding permit will be convenient.
- It improves the chances of obtaining an early slot but doesn’t ensure an “A” boarding position.
Purchase the services: You can add EarlyBird Check-In to your reservation during the beginning of the booking process or at a later time, as long as it is at least 36 hours before your flight.
Automatic Check-In: Once you have purchased the early check-in feature, it will automatically get you checked within 36 hours before the departure.
Boarding Group Assignment: Your boarding group and position will be based on the time you purchased EarlyBird Check-in and your fare type.
Enjoy Early Boarding: In early boarding, you can board the plane sooner and select your preferred seat.
How Much Does EarlyBird Check-In Cost?
EarlyBird Check-In cost per person for each flight is $15 to $25. Meanwhile, its prices may vary depending on the route and passenger demand. While the price may seem modest, it can add up for families or travelers having multiple connecting flights.
Who Should Consider Southwest EarlyBird Check-In?
While Early Bird Check-In isn’t for everyone, it is particularly valuable for passengers who are:
Families traveling with young children may want to choose secure seats together without relying on Southwest’s family boarding, which is between Group A and Group B.
Business travelers are professionals who need to sit closer to the front for quicker deplaning. Additionally, it can be done through EarlyBird check-in boarding positions.
Travelers with preferences are particular about getting a window or aisle seat or avoiding the middle seat. You can improve your chances of obtaining the seats you want by using early bird check-in.
Those who value convenience forget to check in at the 24-hour, which can result in a less desirable boarding position. EarlyBird Check-In can eliminate this problem.
When is EarlyBird Check-In Not Worth It?
Short Flights: The selection of seats might not matter so much for the passengers if they are traveling on a short-distance flight.
Low-Demand Routes:-If the flight is not fully booked, you will likely find a good seat even without EarlyBird Check-In, making it not worth it for the passengers.
Budget Travelers: If passengers are traveling on a tight budget, the added amount might not be suitable for them.
Tips for Maximizing EarlyBird Check-In
Book Early: The passenger who has purchased the EarlyBird Check-In should secure the best boarding position as soon as possible within the services.
Combine with Other Perks: Southwest Rapid Rewards members or those with a business-selected fare can further enhance their experience.Be Strategic with Connections: If you have multiple connecting flights, decide whether EarlyBird Check-In is necessary for each part of your journey.
Conclusion
Southwest’s check-in feature offers a stress-free way to improve your travel experience by securing an earlier boarding position. While this early check-in feature is not essential for everyone. However, Passgeners with families, frequent flyers, or anyone who values convenience can consider it. Before your next trip, weigh the cost and benefit of Southwest EarlyBird Check-In; this may make your journey smoother to your destination.
Frequently Asked Question
If you buy your ticket more than 36 hours before the flight’s scheduled departure time. This feature will check you in 36 hours early by default.
You get an earlier boarding position, gaining chances to choose your desired available seat and earlier access. Meanwhile, EarlyBird Check-In also doesn’t ensure a place in group A boarding for travelers.
If EarlyBird Check-in is available, it will automatically check you in and assign your boarding place. Additionally, it can be done twelve hours before public boarding, or thirty-six hours before your aircraft departs.
Passengers on daytime flights can check their bags at least four hours before departure or as soon as the airport ticket office opens. However, they should make sure to allow enough time for their bags to be checked and loaded into the plane.
