Claire Thompson
Southwest Airlines offers an optional add-on called EarlyBird Check-In, which provides ticket holders with automatic check-in starting 36 hours before the flight's departure. This service, which costs $15 to $25 one-way, assigns passengers a boarding number before the general 24-hour self-check-in period. However, there is uncertainty about the future of this service. While some sources indicate that it will be discontinued on certain flights, Southwest Airlines has not provided clear information on whether and when the EarlyBird Check-In option will be discontinued.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| EarlyBird Check-In Availability | Available during or after booking |
| EarlyBird Check-In Fee | $15-$25 one-way |
| EarlyBird Check-In Purchase Time | Up to 36 hours before the scheduled flight |
| Standard Check-In Time | 24 hours before the flight |
| Boarding Process | Group-based (A, B, or C) |
| Assigned Seating | Not available; passengers choose their seats |
| EarlyBird Check-In Benefits | Automatic check-in, higher boarding number, and more seat options |
| Assigned Seating Implementation | Starting January 27, 2026 |
| EarlyBird Check-In Status | Unclear if it will continue after the assigned seating changes |
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What You'll Learn
Southwest Airlines' EarlyBird Check-In is an optional add-on
Southwest Airlines has a unique boarding process that differs from other major airlines. Instead of reserving a specific seat when booking a flight, passengers are assigned a boarding position within one of three groups: A, B, or C. This means that A1 will be the first to board, followed by A2, and so on. This process can be confusing for first-time Southwest flyers, and this is where EarlyBird Check-In comes into play.
EarlyBird Check-In is an optional add-on offered by Southwest Airlines that provides passengers with automatic check-in starting 36 hours before the flight's scheduled departure time. This is 12 hours before the general 24-hour check-in period. The fee for EarlyBird Check-In varies depending on the route and demand but typically ranges from $15 to $25 for a one-way trip. It is important to note that EarlyBird Check-In is non-refundable, unless the flight is cancelled by Southwest.
By purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, passengers can secure an earlier boarding position, increasing their chances of getting their preferred seat. This is especially beneficial for those who want to sit with their travel companions or avoid the middle seat. However, it is not necessary to purchase EarlyBird Check-In to achieve this, as passengers can also check in exactly 24 hours before departure to improve their chances of getting their desired seat.
The value of EarlyBird Check-In lies in the convenience and peace of mind it offers. With EarlyBird Check-In, passengers don't have to worry about checking in exactly 24 hours before departure to secure their preferred seat. This can be especially useful for those who have busy schedules or tend to forget to check in. However, it is worth noting that starting in 2026, Southwest Airlines will be transitioning to assigned seating, which may reduce the value of EarlyBird Check-In for some passengers.
In conclusion, Southwest Airlines' EarlyBird Check-In is an optional add-on that offers convenience and a higher chance of getting a preferred seat. While it comes at an additional cost, it can be beneficial for those who value a stress-free travel experience and want to ensure they sit with their travel companions. However, with the upcoming changes to assigned seating, passengers may want to reconsider the add-on's value proposition.
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EarlyBird Check-In pricing
Southwest Airlines' EarlyBird Check-In is a paid service that automatically checks passengers in 36 hours before their flight, improving their boarding position and increasing the likelihood of securing preferred seating. The service is available for purchase during or after booking.
The price of EarlyBird Check-In depends on the length of the route and the popularity or demand for the service on each specific route. Prices typically range from $15 to $25 for a one-way trip. For round-trip tickets, you need to purchase EarlyBird Check-In for each leg separately.
It's worth noting that EarlyBird Check-In is non-refundable, even if you cancel your flight within 24 hours. This is because the service involves advance processing that provides benefits such as early boarding positions. Once purchased, the advance allocation is considered a completed service.
While EarlyBird Check-In improves your boarding position, it doesn't guarantee that you will be the first to board the plane. Your place in line will depend on how many Business Select tickets were purchased on your flight.
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Boarding process and seat selection
Southwest Airlines' boarding process is slightly different from other airlines. They don't assign seats, so passengers are free to sit anywhere they like once they board the plane. The check-in window opens 24 hours before the flight, and your check-in time determines your boarding position. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position will be.
Passengers with eligible reservations can check in online or via the Southwest app. After checking in, you can print or download your boarding pass, which will have your boarding position on it. This consists of a letter (A, B, or C) and a number (1-60).
Southwest Airlines offers EarlyBird Check-In as an optional add-on. This feature provides automatic check-in starting 36 hours before the flight's scheduled departure time. EarlyBird customers are checked in and assigned a boarding number before the standard 24-hour check-in period. This means they get a higher boarding number and a better chance of securing their preferred seat on the plane. The fee for EarlyBird Check-In is typically $15-$25 one-way and is non-refundable unless the flight is canceled by Southwest.
Starting with flights on or after January 27, 2026, Southwest Airlines will transition from open to assigned seating. Customers will be able to choose their seats at the time of booking for most fares. The boarding structure will also change from the current A/B/C groups with numbered positions to a new system using Groups 1 through 8.
The boarding process for Southwest Airlines typically begins with pre-boarding for passengers who require specific seating due to disabilities or those needing assistance. Then, the gate agent calls boarding positions in batches of 15, starting with A 1-15 (usually reserved for Business Select passengers), followed by A 16-30 and A 31-60. Once the A group has boarded, the monitor changes to B 1-30, and the process continues until all passengers have boarded.
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EarlyBird Check-In availability
Southwest Airlines' EarlyBird Check-In is an optional service that automates your check-in process and improves your chances of getting a better seat. It is available for purchase during the checkout process on www.southwestvacations.com. It can also be purchased after booking your vacation package on www.southwest.com up to 36 hours before your scheduled local departure flight time. The fee for this service ranges from $15 to $25 per person each way and is subject to change.
To purchase EarlyBird Check-In, visit Southwest.com or use the Southwest mobile app. As you complete your booking, a pop-up or notification will appear, asking if you would like to add EarlyBird Check-In. Select "yes" and continue with your purchase. If you are booking over the phone, the agent will ask if you would like to add this feature before finalizing your transaction.
It is important to note that EarlyBird Check-In does not guarantee an 'A' boarding position. Instead, it increases your chances of getting an early slot. Your boarding number is based on when you bought EarlyBird Check-In and your fare type. Even with EarlyBird Check-In, you may end up in 'B' if demand exceeds the available 'A' slots. Therefore, the sooner you purchase it, the higher your chances of getting your desired seat.
Additionally, EarlyBird Check-In is non-refundable, even if you cancel your flight within 24 hours. This is because the service involves advance processing that provides benefits such as early boarding positions. Once purchased, the advance allocation is considered a completed service, and refunds are typically not offered if you cancel your flight.
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Assigned seating and its impact on EarlyBird Check-In
Southwest Airlines has a unique approach to seating and boarding. Unlike most airlines, Southwest does not assign seats. Instead, passengers line up at the gate according to their boarding position and are then free to choose any available seat on the plane. The boarding positions are assigned by Group (A, B, or C) and Position (1-60), with boarding occurring in that order.
The EarlyBird Check-In is an optional service provided by Southwest Airlines that allows passengers to check in to their flight 36 hours prior to scheduled departure. This is 12 hours before the standard check-in window, which opens 24 hours before the flight. The EarlyBird Check-In guarantees customers a better boarding position, which is assigned based on the fare type purchased. This service is particularly useful for passengers who are particular about their seat and want to secure their preferred spot. It is also beneficial for those who want to avoid the stress of checking in exactly 24 hours before departure.
The impact of the EarlyBird Check-In on assigned seating is that it improves the likelihood of obtaining a desired seat. With the early check-in, passengers can secure a boarding position in the A Group, which grants them first access to the plane and the widest choice of available seats. This is especially advantageous for larger groups travelling together, as it increases the chances of them being able to sit together.
However, it is important to note that the EarlyBird Check-In does not guarantee an A Group boarding position. Other factors, such as the fare type purchased, also influence the boarding position. Additionally, passengers with priority boarding, such as those who have purchased a Business Class fare or are A-List Members, will already have early boarding and may not need the EarlyBird Check-In.
The EarlyBird Check-In service is available for purchase during or after booking a flight, with prices typically ranging from $15 to $25 for a one-way trip. It is important to consider that this service is non-refundable, even if the flight is cancelled within 24 hours.
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Frequently asked questions
EarlyBird Check-In is an optional add-on that provides the ticket holder with automatic check-in starting 36 hours before the flight’s scheduled departure time. This means that customers who purchase this add-on will be checked in and assigned a boarding number before the general 24-hour check-in period.
The cost of the EarlyBird Check-In starts at \$15 per person one-way, but the price can vary depending on the length of the route and the popularity or demand for EarlyBird Check-In on each specific route.
You can purchase the EarlyBird Check-In during or after booking your flight. If you are purchasing it after booking, you can do so up to 36 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time. You can buy it on the Southwest website or app.
It is unclear when Southwest Airlines will stop selling the EarlyBird Check-In. In August 2023, there were reports that the airline would no longer sell the EarlyBird Check-In for all trips. However, as of January 2026, the EarlyBird Check-In is still available for purchase.
