How do I check in with Southwest Airlines?

Skip the queue waiting for your turn to appear for the check-in process. You can escape the queue using the online mode with a mobile app or website. The process is relatively simple. Southwest Airlines facilitates check in online 24 hours before the flight departure, and you can go directly to the gate after discharging the bag. Besides these, you can also check in at the airport through a self-service Kiosk, curbside check-in, & ticket counters. The check-in window opens around the clock and will remain upto 10 hours before the departure.

What is the fastest way to check in on Southwest?

The airline allows passengers to access the entry pass through online and mobile applications, which is the most convenient and comfortable way. They do not need to stand in a line, which saves their time and effort. The entry pass will be sent to their registered e-mail address. The online check-in gives them more time to relax before the flight. 

Southwest Airlines check-in Online

The airline's online check-in allows passengers to check their baggage prior, make a meal choice, and access the entry card.

here's how the online check-in process begins - 

• Go to the official page.
• Tap on the check in link. 
• Input the details as PNR confirmation, First Name, and Last Name. 
• Tap on the Check-in button to move ahead. 
• Follow the instructions promptly and complete the process. 
• Now, the entry card will be available online.

Mobile devices 

The airlines allow you to check in your application through mobile applications. Download the application to your phone, be it an Android device or an iPhone. It's easy. The instructions are required to be followed stepwise - 

• First, download and install the application on your mobile devices.
• Open the application. 
• Make a reservation, and check in on the flight. 
• Review your ticket status and see your name, gate number, and other information. 
• Download the entry card. 

If you are talking about using mobile apps for check-in, yes, you can. The airline's app allows easy access to entry cards. You Can download the App on an Android or iOS device.

Self Service Kiosk

The option is available when you arrive at the airport. The self-check in kiosks at the airport let passengers process their air carrier check in requests smoothly. Thus, they can acquire a entry card from the machine. The facility is available for both domestic and global flights. 

Here’s how you can process your requests with Self-service Kiosks –

Follow the steps carefully to accomplish the check in at the self-service kiosk - 

• At first, find the automatic check-in kiosk machine. 
• Please provide the number or photo ID you used during the booking and the confirmation PNR of the booking information. 
• Select your preferred seat.
• Now, you can access the entry pass check-in through the printout. 

Curbside Check-in 

Southwest Airlines curbside check in is available at selected airports across the U.S., which gives a check-in facility to passengers who have confirmed airline bookings and are traveling with hand luggage only. You need your photo ID, reservation code, and flight number. Go to the airport page to find out the preceding check in and other requirements. 

With the above-mentioned, you can easily complete your check in process. So, it's upto you which option you want to select. 

Know more about the Southwest Airport Check-In and Time

• Carry your travel documents along with you, including your passport, reservation code, government-issued photo ID, or printout copy of the ticket. The desks will remain open 3 hours before the scheduled departure. 
• The check-in online begins 24 hours before the scheduled departure and closes upto 10 minutes before the flight leaves. 
• Passengers start boarding after half an hour before the scheduled departure time. 
• All travelers must acquire the entry pass at the gate area for southwest boarding 10 minutes before the flight's scheduled departure time. 
• Passengers can cancel the reservation at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure of the flight. 

What is Southwest early bird check-in? 

Southwest's early bird check-in is an add-on service that provides an automatic check-in facility. The service will remain open 36 hours before the scheduled departure. Passengers can check in automatically for 15 USD to 25 USD one-way. You must also clear all your queries by contacting the airline's check-in desk. 

When you don’t need Early bird check-in

Being a passenger, you do not require early bird check-in if -

• you have a business fare ticket.
• having A-list status preference.
• You are a parent traveling with children who are six years old or younger.
•  Procure southwest unaccompanied minor service.
• looking for special assistance with Southwest Aircraft. 

About the Southwest Entry pass

Southwest Entry Pass is an important document that lets you board the plane and save a seat. It requires information such as name, departure time, and flight number. The pass has a unique barcode scanned by the airport personnel to be assured of the plane details and seat allotment. You can procure the entry card through various options available both online and offline, including a website or mobile app and at the airport. The airline allows three boarding groups, including (A, B, or C) and a 1-60+ position upon boarding. 

• Your boarding pass displays your distinct group and position combination, and it shows that you have a reserved spot at the gate in the group.
• Upon calling your boarding group, locate a place in the queue and board the aircraft. 

The aircraft offers open seating, where you can select an available seat and store your carry-on items under the seat before you. 

Note - It is highly advisable to check in as soon as possible 24 hours before. 

Boarding Pass Check-In Tips

Here are a few tips that you must acknowledge during the check-in process –

• Make sure you have your entry card when you reach the gate area. 
• Also, you must arrive at least 10 minutes before the airplane’s departure time. If you arrive late, your reservation may be canceled, and you may not seek a refund. 
• You can download, print, or email the entry pass. 
• Carry a printout from the check-in kiosk that would be enough for you. 
• You must arrive beforehand and complete all the requirements so you may have enough time to check in baggage, go through security checks, and so on. 

Preboarding for disabled passengers

The airline's policy offers the option of prior check-in. However, several guidelines must be adhered to. This is in the traveler's favor, so they must remain aware. 

Passengers with specific seating requirements, such as people with disabilities or requiring assistance in getting to their seats, can board with a travel companion for aid. Pre-boarding customers can board with a travel companion for aid, but they are prevented from setting it in an exit row. At the departure gate, a customer service agent can assist you with support. You must pass through the queries to verify whether you are eligible. You will get a entry pass marked with PRBD. This helps the operation agent to know that you can preboard. 

Preboarding for other Passengers

Besides disability, a passenger can acquire boarding benefits, which are as follows -

• Group A16-30 is usually assigned to the A-list or passengers requiring additional time. It includes family members and travelers who have bought Early bird check in. 
• Regardless of assigned boarding position, family, active military, and A-list travelers need a preboard option. It may involve family boarding with an under-6-year-old child. 
• Group B1-60, where travelers usually check in 24 hours before 24 hours of departure. 
• The Group C1-60 is when you haven't checked in before. 

How early do I need to check-in at Southwest Airlines?

According to the airline's guidelines, you can check in at the airline 24 hours before and upto 2 hours before the scheduled plane departure. A passenger must consider these to prevent any sort of hassles. 

What is the Southwest Airlines Check-in Policy?

According to the Airlines check-in policy, you may find the following guidelines under the terms - 

• Southwest online check in begins 24 hours before the plane departure. 
• The early bird check-in service ranges from 15 to 25 USD per passenger each way. 
• Travelers can choose to check in early and prioritize their boarding position.
• A passenger can apply for check in online or via mobile app, early bird check-in, or at the airport through a self-service kiosk, curbside, or airport ticket counter. 
• You can also sign up for the Rapid Rewards program, which lets you earn points for flights and other purchases to get preboarding. You can use these points to buy priority boarding passes, or you can become eligible for A-list status, which enables you to get automatic priority entry on all your flights. 
• Southwest Airlines doesn't assign seats at check in as it follows an open-seating plan.

Conclusion - Hope through this page now, you have become well aware of the valuable information regarding the check-in process. Certainly, you will find the check in process quite easy.  If you need further information, you can consider visiting the airline's official page or contacting the customer service representative.