As a result of its unconventional approach, Southwest Airlines has become one of the most popular airlines in the United States. They do not impose change costs, do not charge checked baggage fees, or give seat assignments themselves. Their boarding process is unique, and people get boarded in different groups and then can choose from any seat available. So, how many boarding groups does Southwest have, and how does the boarding system work there?
Southwest has three boarding groups, named A, B, and C. Southwest divides its passengers into three groups — A, B, and C — and assigns each passenger a number in the range of 1 to 60. Then it gives a unique board number, which is a combination of group and passenger numbers like A5, B15, or C40.
Then the passengers are called into groups of 30 and then broken into smaller blocks. Then the passengers reach the plane and choose any seat among the seats available.
This is how boarding in Southwest works. Let’s get to know more about it.
How many boarding groups does Southwest have?
Southwest divides its passengers into three boarding groups, named A, B, and C. Then it assigns them numbers from 1-to 60. Every group has a reason to be assigned. However, apart from the A, B, and C groups, it has two special groups too. Let’s get to know them about in detail:
The A Group:
People with seats in A1-A15 are the first to board Southwest aircraft. These seats are often occupied by elite Southwest fliers and those who pay more for tickets or boarding. The remaining members of the A group are A16-60.
When purchasing a ticket, the insanely expensive Business Select tickets offer preferred boarding spots. Superior to Early Bird and even superior to A-List. Business Select passengers are assigned boarding spots A1 through A15.
Preboarding Group:
Southwest gives priority boarding to those with special seating requirements, boarding assistance, extra time, or assistance stowing an assistive device. To be included in this group, you must speak with a Southwest customer care representative at the ticket counter or departure gate and request preboarding.
Family and On-Duty Military Personal:
If you are travelling with a kid younger than 6 years old, you and up to one additional adult can board before the B group during Family Boarding. During this time, military personnel in uniform may also board.
The B and C groups:
It’s time for the B group to go, so everyone else can get on board. There’s also a C group for flights with a lot of people on board. Both groups begin at position 1 and work their way up to position 60.
How many seats are in each southwest boarding group?
Each boarding group has 60 seats. In each group, the airline assigned 60 numbers, meaning A group is assigned with 1-60. Similarly, B & C are assigned 1-60. The plane is boarded according to group priority; therefore, A1 will board first, and C60 will board last.
Does Southwest have assigned seats?
No, there is no assigned seating system in Southwest. They will assign you a group between A, B, and C with a number from 1-to 60. Then, you will board the flight as per your group and the number assigned. After this, you can sit on any seat available on the flight.
This gives you the opportunity to sit in the seat you want.
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Can I upgrade my boarding position on Southwest after check-in?
Yes, you can upgrade your boarding position on Southwest after check-in, but it will cost you some amount. Upgraded boarding can be requested at the counter when you arrive at your gate. If seats in A1-A15 are still available, you can upgrade your boarding pass for either $30 or $40.
It is possible that if the flight is short on elite fliers or Business Select passengers, some of these seats will be available to purchase after the 24-hour check-in window opens. Then, you will have access to better seats when you get on the plane.
How can I get the best boarding group?
If you purchase or upgrade to Business Select, you can board with the greatest group on Southwest. Upgrades cost between $30 and $50 for each section. Having an A-List status can also help you secure a better spot on the plane.
Although it is not assured, purchasing EarlyBird will boost your chances of getting into the first boarding group.
Bottom Line
This was all about boarding groups on Southwest airlines. Now you know how many boarding groups does Southwest have? Next time you plan to travel through Southwest airlines, keep in mind to reach early or buy an early bird ticket to get A group for better seating.
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FAQ’s
How many groups does Southwest have for boarding?
Southwest has three boarding groups named A, B, and C. Southwest organizes its passengers into three groups, A, B, and C, and assigns each a number between 1 and 60. The system then assigns a unique board number consisting of the group and passenger numbers, such as A5, B15, or C40.
How many boarding groups does Southwest airlines have?
Southwest has three boarding groups labeled A, B, and C. Southwest classifies its passengers into three categories: A, B, and C, and assigns each passenger a number between 1 and 60. The board number is then assigned, which is a combination of the group and passenger numbers, such as A5, B15, or C40.
The passengers are then called in groups of 30 and divided into smaller blocks. The passengers then board the plane and select any available seat.