Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

I want to fly out of Islip. I have never flown Southwest before. I have flown other airlines that allow you to get your seat assignment ahead of time. I always pick a window seat as it helps me feel less dizzy etc.

In looking at the Southwest page I see they board by group? Does this mean you have no control over where you sit? Any tips for getting into the first boarding groups?

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

I flew Southwest once and it was the most pleasant airport experience of my life!!! Your grouping depends on when you check in at the airport. I think you could pay an extra 5 or 10 before the day of your flight to ensure you get the 1st or 2nd group. Then once you are at the terminal and it is time to board they will ask the 1st group to line up in numerical order (your boarding pass will have a # on it). When you actually board the plan you take any seat you want. It sounds a lot more confusing than it really is. Much easier than the usual way when the gate attendants are calling rows and everyone gets up.

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

I fly Southwest a lot. Depending on when you check-in, you'll be assigned a letter and a #. The A group boards first, in numerical order, followed by B & C.

If where you sit is really important to you, or if you want to make sure you're not separated from your traveling companions, you might want to pay the $10 for the early bird check-in. This will most likely guarantee you an "A". You can check in online 24 hours prior to your flight, and this usually gives you an A or one of the first B spots as well.

ETA: I'd probably skip the early bird as long as you don't need an aisle seat, and if you're traveling alone or don't mind the possibility of being separated from whoever you're flying with. I have gotten a C and been able to sit with my husband before, it all depends on how full the flight is and how many solo travelers vs. groups there are.

Message edited 4/11/2012 4:10:11 PM.

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

Try to check in as soon as you can online and you should be good. I always get the seat that I want when I check in online within the first few hours allowed.

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

ok thanks!
I guess it is alot easier than I was thinking.

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

Definitely easy! I normally fly Southwest and have no problems with check in or getting a seat.

Definitely check in 24 hours before. That way you have a better chance at getting an "A" group boarding pass. Then you have a great selection of seats.

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

I"ve flown with them once and it was pick your seat when your group is called. My dad flies with Southwest out of Islip a couple times a month and they are very reliable and very rarely have delays, so that's a plus!

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

Flying out of Islip is fantastic!!! I agree with others that the important this is that you check in online as close to 24 hours before as you can. This way you will board as part of group A and will most likely be able to sit where you want. I forgot to check in until way after the 24 window opened and got group B. Because I was flying with a baby, I was able to board with my DH and DS AFTER group A but BEFORE group B and we all sat together. I think you should be fine.

Honestly, flying out of Islip is so easy and stress free. No crowds or long lines. My dad was delayed by an hour once when he flew but it was no biggie.

Re: Who flys Southwest airlines- I have a few questions?

I flew SW last week. On the way out, I clicked "check-in" online exactly 24 hours before and got in the A group. On the way back home, I also clicked "check-in" exactly 24 hours before and I got the last of the B group. I have flown them before and never had issues, except delays!