Airlines are continuously adapting novel means to offer an enhanced travel experience to passengers. Especially, in an era marked by technological advancements and increased customer expectations, they are bound to introduce innovative services and this also helps them stay ahead of the curve amid cut-throat competitive scenarios. Southwest Airlines is also one such carrier which keeps evolving with new trends. It has also introduced a unique service called Early Bird Check-In that simplifies the boarding process for you.
This blog delves on what Early Bird Check-In is, how it works, its benefits, costs, and more!
Read on!
How Does Early Bird Check-in Work?
This is an exclusive service introduced by Southwest Airlines to enable various benefits for travelers. Here’s what you can expect:
Automatic Check-in
You are automatically checked in and assigned the boarding position within 36 hours of the departure time of your flight. So, that happens 12 hours before the usual boarding positions are made available. No matter whenever you choose to print your boarding pass, the boarding position gets confirmed for you by the airline.
Better Boarding Position
You have the benefit of better seat selection options, which helps you grab the best seat. But this service doesn’t ensure an A boarding position.
Early Access to Overhead Bins
When you are able to board earlier, you can definitely gain quicker access to overhead bin space to place your carry-on bags.
This feature is absolutely recommended for families, business travelers, and those who prefer extra comfort during their flight journey.
Southwest Early Bird Check-in Cost
The pricing begins at US$15 and goes up to US$99 for a customer on a one-way flight basis, but this service is subject to availability. Please bear in mind that the cost may also depend on the length and popularity of the flight for each side (one or two way).
There could be additional or optional travel costs involved with your flight. You are advised to read complete details on the website of Southwest Airlines.
Early Bird Check-in Purchase
You can buy the EarlyBird Check-in service if you have purchased Wanna Get Away® or Wanna Get Away Plus® fare type through Southwest Airlines website, the Southwest mobile app, or via phone. At the same time, this service must have been purchased up to 36 hours before the flight’s scheduled local departure time. All the eligible passengers on the same itinerary as yours must also purchase it.
Please Note: 1. If you purchase the Anytime Fare Type then the Early Bird Check-in feature comes included with the same. So, the benefits automatically start coming to you. However, an Anytime fare purchased within 24 hours of the departure time of your flight will not bring you the Early Bird Check-in benefit. Thus, you must try purchasing between 36 and 24 hours before the flight’s departure.
2. Besides, if there are changes in the itinerary due to operational issues, the airline’s team makes sure to secure the best available boarding position for you at the time of re-accommodation.
Important Points to Remember
Here are certain key factors you must keep in mind while planning to purchase the Early Bird Check-in service.
- If you are flying on a Southwest Airlines partner flight then you won’t be eligible to purchase this service. Even if it is added to an existing itinerary, it can only be purchased for select passengers on that itinerary.
- The benefit of priority boarding already comes included if you opt for the Business Select® fare type. It is offered when you are a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred or A-List Member. Even if you are flying on a booking including an A-List Preferred or A-List Member then also you can enjoy priority boarding.
- If you cancel your flight, your EarlyBird Check-In service purchased for the same will be forfeited.
Early Bird Check-in Refunds
Although these purchases are non-refundable as per the airline’s policy, there are certain scenarios when you are eligible to get refunds.
Take a look below!
Case 1
When the airline itself cancels a flight, a refund for this service purchased by Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fare type customers is processed. It takes seven business days to process the refund in case you made the payment via your credit card. You can connect with the airline if you do not receive the refund within this time limit.
Case 2
If the airline delays or changes the flight significantly, which means any of these situations occurs for three or more hours for domestic flights, and for six or more hours for international flights, and then you also find it suitable to cancel your booking then the airline processes a refund with respect to the flight ticket(s) not used by you.
Who Must Not Purchase the Early Bird Check-in Service?
You must not purchase the Early Bird Check-in service if:
- You are traveling on the same flight booking as an A-List or an A-List Preferred Member. This is because priority boarding is already included.
- You are reserving a flight for an Unaccompanied Minor, as they are already made to preboard the flight.
Concluding Lines
No wonder Southwest Airlines Early Bird Check-In service proves to be a game-changer for travelers seeking a seamless boarding experience. It just takes a small additional charge to enjoy priority boarding and a more relaxed travel journey. This service is especially significant for families, busy working professionals, and anyone looking to make the most of their time.
By understanding how the Early Bird Check-in works, you can definitely go ahead with elevating your flight journey with Southwest Airlines and begin your trip on the right note. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or not, you may choose to purchase this service and get in touch with the airline’s team for assistance. Get to know the benefits well for best decision-making. Joyful travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are quick answers to certain usual queries raised regarding the Early Bird Check-in service provided by Southwest Airlines. Take a look!
This is a special service introduced by Southwest Airlines to help you enjoy automatic check-in, better boarding position, and earlier access to overhead bins on the aircraft. This service is subject to availability.
The Southwest Early Bird Check-in cost is US$15-US$99 per customer for one-way.
Yes, this service automatically checks you in within 36 hours of the scheduled departure time of your flight.
You must purchase this service up to 36 hours before the scheduled local departure time of your Southwest flight.
This service is non-refundable by Southwest Airlines. But, if a flight is cancelled, delayed, or changed by the airline, it might issue a refund under certain circumstances or conditions.
If you purchase the Southwest Anytime fare, the early bird check-in is included in it. You can also enjoy priority boarding automatically on purchasing the airline’s Business Select® fare, as you are a Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred or A-List Member. Even if you travel on a reservation including an A-List Preferred or A-List Member then also you can enjoy this benefit.
