Southwest Airlines Best Seats Guide For Open Seating

Southwest Airlines has long been famous for its unique open seating policy, where passengers choose their seats upon boarding based on their position in line. This system rewards early check-in and strategic planning, allowing savvy travelers to claim window seats, extra legroom spots, or rows with quick service. While Southwest is transitioning to assigned seating starting January 27, 2026, current flyers through early 2026 can still master the open seating game to ensure comfort on every flight.

Understanding the boarding groups—A, B, C—and positions 1-60 is key. Preboarding goes first for those with disabilities or unaccompanied minors, followed by Group A (1-60), priority passengers like A-List members and families with young children, then Groups B and C. Your boarding position, printed on your pass like ‘A45’, dictates your choice. This article breaks down how to land in early Group A, pick the best seats for your needs, and leverage perks amid the shift to assigned seats.

Understand Southwest’s Boarding Process

Southwest boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, but unlike assigned-seat airlines, you pick any available spot (except exit rows requiring FAA eligibility). Lines form without stanchions currently, and you board in numerical order within your group. This first-come, first-served approach fills the front first, often leaving rear seats emptier on partially full flights.

• Preboarding: Disabilities, assistive devices, unaccompanied minors.
• Group A (1-60): Earliest general boarders.
• Priority: A-List, military, family boarding (kids 6 and under).
• Group B (1-60): Mid-tier.
• Group C (1-60): Last general group.

Check-in exactly 24 hours ahead assigns your group—aim for A1-A15 for prime picks. Online or app check-in is crucial; airport check-in risks later groups.

Check In Online Exactly 24 Hours Before Your Flight

The single most important hack: log in at T-24 hours (22 hours for international). Southwest’s system opens check-in precisely then, and positions fill in seconds. Set multiple alarms, use the app, and refresh relentlessly. Travelers report snagging A1-A10 consistently with practice.

Pro tips:

• Enable notifications for exact timing.
• Check in for your whole party at once.
• If traveling with kids, note family boarding after A but before B.

This free method beats paid options for budget flyers, though competition is fierce on popular routes.

Get EarlyBird Check-In

For reliability, buy EarlyBird Check-In ($15-$25 one-way), automatically checking you in 36 hours early for A1-A15 positions. It’s per person, per flight, and ideal for groups or peak times. Many find it worth the cost for stress-free boarding.

Book EarlyBird during reservation or later via Manage Reservations.

Opt for Business Select or Upgraded Boarding

Business Select fares guarantee A1-A15, priority boarding, premium drinks, and 12 Rapid Rewards points per dollar. Upgraded Boarding ($30-$80) post-check-in bumps you to A1-A15 if available. Best for full flights or when T-24h fails.

A-List elite status (25 flights/year) or A-List Preferred (100 segments) auto-assigns early A groups, free forever. Credit cardholders like Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier get perks too.

Book the First Flight of the Day

Morning flights have fewer no-shows and delays, leading to better availability. Less competition for early check-in positions means easier A-group entry. Data shows first flights often have open middle seats mid-cabin.

Other Ways to Improve Your Boarding Position

Beyond basics:

• Elite Status: A-List boards post-A, Preferred even earlier.
• Military: Active-duty get priority after A.
• Families: Kids 6/under board after A with adults.
• Companion Pass: Travel with points-earner for shared benefits.

Under assigned seating (post-Jan 27, 2026), elites select Preferred/Extra Legroom seats free at booking.

Know Where the Best Seats Are

Best seats vary by plane (737-700, -800, MAX 8) and needs. Front fills first; back may stay emptier.

For Extra Legroom

On 737-700: Row 12A (window with space due to missing 11A), Row 11B/C (2-seat row), exit rows (strong passengers only). On -800/MAX 8: Rows 14/15 equivalents. Avoid last row (no recline).

For Quick Service

Rows 1, 9, 17—service zones start here for fastest drinks/snacks.

For Empty Middle Seat

Party of 3: Grab a row. Solo/duo: Window in back half. Avoid aisles.

Bathroom Access

Front has one; back has two on -800, drawing crowds.

No Recline Needed

Last row or pre-exit row.

Seating Changes Coming January 2026

Southwest ends open seating Jan 27, 2026, introducing assigned seats: Standard (rear), Preferred (front standard), Extra Legroom (up to +5″ pitch, front/exits, perks). Select at booking based on fare/status.

• Basic: Assigned at check-in/gate.
• Choice Preferred/Extra: Pick any available.
• Elites: Free Premium/Extra selections.

Families prioritized together, especially kids under 13.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best way to get a good seat on Southwest right now?

Check in online exactly 24 hours before departure for the earliest Group A position.

Does EarlyBird Check-In guarantee Group A?

Yes, typically A1-A15, checked in 36 hours early.

Are there seats with extra legroom on Southwest?

Exit rows and specific spots like 12A on 737-700; more formalized post-2026.

Will Southwest keep open seating forever?

No, assigned seating starts January 27, 2026.

Can families sit together?

Family boarding after A now; assigned together post-2026, prioritizing young kids.

What if my flight is full?

Early boarding still key; back may have fewer options.

Master these tips for comfort on Southwest, whether open or assigned seating. Plan ahead, check status, and fly happy!

This article is general information, not personal financial advice. Consider your own situation, or speak with a licensed adviser, before acting on it.