Flying with Southwest Airlines can feel a little different—especially when it comes to getting on the plane. That’s because the Southwest Airlines boarding process doesn’t involve assigned seats like most other carriers. Instead, passengers are divided into boarding groups (A, B, and C) and numbered within those groups. Your position depends on when you check in, your ticket type, or whether you’ve paid for extras like EarlyBird Check-In. Once your group is called, you simply pick any available seat when you board. While the Southwest Airlines boarding process might seem unusual at first, it’s actually straightforward once you get the hang of it—and it offers a fair chance to grab your preferred spot on the plane.
What Are Boarding Groups?
A, B, and C are the three primary groups into which Southwest divides its passengers. The numbers in each group range from 1 to 60. For example, you might be A15, B30, or C55. When it’s your turn to board, you can be identified by your group and number. You can board the aircraft earlier and get better seats if your number is lower!
How Do You Get a Good Group?
Here’s how you can end up in a better boarding group:
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Check in early – You can check in starting 24 hours before your flight. Do it right on time!
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Buy EarlyBird Check-In – This checks you in automatically before others.
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Buy a Business Select fare – You’ll get a spot in A1–A15.
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Be an A-List member – Southwest’s frequent flyers get earlier boarding too.
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Special boarding – Families with small kids or people with disabilities may board earlier.
What Do A, B, and C Mean?
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Group A: You’ll board first and get the best seats. Great for overhead bin space too.
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Group B: You’ll still get a decent seat, especially if your number is low.
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Group C: You’ll board last, and may end up with a middle seat or have to check your bag.
Tips for a Smooth Boarding
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Set a reminder to check in 24 hours before your flight.
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Pay for EarlyBird if you don’t want to worry about checking in.
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Get to the gate early and be ready when your group is called.
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Be polite and follow the instructions—they help the process go smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Although the boarding procedure on Southwest may be unusual, it’s actually quite easy once you figure it out. Just keep in mind to be prepared to board, know your group, and check in early. You can start your journey off smoothly and stress-free with a little preparation.
