Priority Boarding for Families- Why Southwest Airlines Gives Families the First Seat on Board

Do families board first on Southwest? This question often arises among frequent flyers and families traveling together, as they seek to ensure a smoother and more comfortable experience. Southwest Airlines, known for its friendly service and budget-friendly fares, has a unique boarding process that raises this question. Let’s delve into the details and find out if families truly board first on this popular airline.

Southwest Airlines operates on a boarding process called “Boarding Bowl,” where passengers are divided into groups based on their A-List status, EarlyBird® Check-In, and Boarding Priority. The airline does not have designated family boarding, but it does provide a family boarding option for families traveling with young children or those needing extra assistance.

Here’s how the family boarding process works on Southwest Airlines:

1. Boarding Priority: Families with young children or those requiring extra assistance can request a Boarding Priority pass. This pass allows them to board the aircraft before the general boarding groups, ensuring they have more time to secure their seats and settle in before the flight takes off.

2. A-List and EarlyBird® Check-In: Families who have A-List status or have purchased EarlyBird® Check-In can also board the aircraft before the general boarding groups. This gives them an advantage in securing the best seats and having more time to settle in.

3. General Boarding: After the family boarding priority group, passengers are divided into three groups based on their boarding priority status. The first group includes A-List members, EarlyBird® Check-In passengers, and those with Boarding Priority passes. The second group consists of all other A-List members, and the third group includes everyone else.

So, do families board first on Southwest? The answer is yes, but only if they have requested a Boarding Priority pass or have A-List status or EarlyBird® Check-In. While Southwest Airlines does not have a designated family boarding group, the airline provides options for families to board earlier than the general boarding groups, ensuring a more comfortable and less stressful experience.

It’s essential for families to keep in mind that boarding times can vary depending on the specific flight and the number of passengers. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to arrive at the airport early and take advantage of the family boarding options available to make the most of their travel experience on Southwest Airlines.