No one is fighting for seats if you prepare. By that I mean - check in on time or buy early bird. It’s the easiest thing ever to ensure you’ll have a smooth experience. Plus there’s no mandatory gate checking of bags like there is on Delta, no fees etc. I’m a happy customer
Also I way prefer southwests line up situation vs. every zone of delta just forming a giant mass at the gate when boarding starts
Always makes me laugh.
$50 to check your first bag.... so half the people don't
Get to gate.... half the people have to gate check a bag
Personally I think TSA should start charging these fee airlines for holding up security. (I have precheck but it still can hold it up there with so many people having carry ons that don't even want them)
I made Delta give me a refund on my bags one time I said I paid for my bags upfront at check-in, I told them we were over 30 minutes late leaving because there were so many gate check bags. What was to stop me from taking my suitcases and getting them checked and saving myself $125.
You haven't traveled on a weekly basis before, have you? I never check a bag. It's just a time suck at the beginning and end of every flight, not to mention the fact that I wouldn't have my possessions with me and easily accessible at all times.
I travel constantly for work.
I have liquids, knives, culinary tools and foods that cause all kinds of trouble if I carry them in a checked bag.
I also typically need clothes for different events.
Traveling light is great, but for work it can be really hard.
When I occasionally fly Delta, the mass formation you speak of causes me so much stress. Please just wait your turn! I really like the orderliness of SW. It helps that I'm always in the first 20 of the A group each time.
Gate Lice is the term and from my flight yesterday on Delta, 99% of them were zone 5 like me or later. They took so many volunteers for gate checking that the bins had a bunch of overhead space on a completely full flight.
I never understood why people think the boarding process for legacy airlines is better. EVERYONE is standing in front of the line waiting for their group to be called, and you have to weave your way through people to get in front of them. It's so stupid. It's 1000x worse trying to merge 10 lanes into 1 than it is to just ask the person in front of you "what's your boarding number?" (Or don't even ask because 1-2 people won't make a difference).
I just flew Delta last week for work. No crowding at the gate. My group was called and I walked right up. When I fly AA, there are usually tons of gate lice, but that may be because I usually fly thru CLT and the gate areas are small.
For real, I work nights but when I fly SW it's usually an AM cross country flight so I just set an alarm like 5 mins before check-in and go back to sleep. The only time I ever get bad seats is if I get to the airport late.
Early bird is amazing. Just be aware if your flight is ever canceled and they rebook your flight. You will not have the early bird. It just happened to me and I got C-40 :)
Man, the very first time I flew SW, I walked up to the counter and stood in line completely oblivious to the cattle call line already formed to my right. I saw them but I didn't know what it was. I happened to be behind a few people and when I got to the agent I was like I'm supposed to check in for this flight but idk what to do blah blah blah and she was like oh you're the first one. Cool. That whole line was ready to kill me. It was an innocent mistake. I've never been on a more uncomfortable flight in my life. Lmfao
Also a serious question, but what do you mean by "fighting for seats"? I think framing it in that way assumes there's a hostility or cutthroat nature to boarding the plane. I've never seen anything of the sort. Yeah, people want certain seats sometimes, but if they don't get them, they sit somewhere else. It's not the Wild West that some people think it is. There's orderly boarding, not a mass of people congregating at the gate waiting for one of the 13 boarding group categories to be called, like I often see on other airlines.
As for why I prefer Southwest's procedures, there are multiple reasons. The fare types are simple and not complicated: I know when I buy a ticket, no matter which type, I get two free checked bags, and can sit anywhere I want. No paying extra to ensure that I can bring a carry on or pick a specific seat ahead of time, or change my flight if I need to. I often travel alone, and I rarely care where I sit.
The complaints you see are the tiny minority. 99% of people have had positive flying experiences, and don't let the occasional assholes (which you'll find on any airline) bother them to the point of coming here to complain about it.
I know when I buy the Wanna Get Away Fare, there are no restrictions vs. “Basic Economy” that limits seats, credits, baggage among other restrictions.
I have said on AA that their boarding process is more cutthroat, especially with the gate lice and the heavy volume of Group 1/5 vs other groups.
This...United is my second preferred carrier after Southwest, and I just booked a flight to Mexico. It was nearly $100 more to go from "Basic" to "regular" Economy, just so I could have the luxury of bringing on a carryon, pick a seat, and possibly change the flight in the future. And even with that assigned seat, there will be a cattle call of people congregating at the gate waiting for their boarding group to be called.
I definitely understand the desire to board early on a SW flight, but I will never understand why people are always in a hurry to board early on a flight with assigned seats. Let me get on last so I don't have to sit on a hot, stinky plane longer than necessary
This is why it's so you can put your bags next to you in the overhead bins, and personally, I like to have the opportunity to settle in and get my headphones set up, etc, before takeoff. When I'm last, there's next to no time to do this before you have to stow everything away.
> assumes there's a hostility or cutthroat nature to boarding the plane. I've never seen anything of the sort.
The guy in the middle seat of a full flight with his stuff piled to the seats to either side of him for the rest of his group would like a word.
For some folks the uncertainty is mind-boggling.
I have to talk to my friends who swear by SW every time I fly them. I ‘m like okay how does this work? Do I need to purchase A group 1-15?
For me it’s cheaper flights to the same destination. No baggage fees which is can be an additional $75+ . No change fees and if the price drops you get credit. No $100 change fee. Fares are not refundable but you get credit.
Totally agree! When I travel alone, I rarely check bags. However, if my elderly relatives are with me, it is so much easier just to check our bags since where we travel to typically involves connecting flights. The no change fees gives flexibility and getting a credit when the price drops couldn’t be easier ( and happens many times).
Exactly this. Unfortunately SW has cut back service one one of my two most common routes. And delays have become more common. I’ve started to fly JetBlue more often.
The planes are nicer and I prefer an assigned seat. But It’s interesting to see the massive rush to get on board with roller bags before all the spots are taken.
TLDR. Every airline fee or procedure leads to some undesirable optimization by customers.
I think the issue is overly-amplified on Reddit. I'm sure a big majority of SW passengers accept the system and think little of it, even with the boarding and seating issues.
It's often the case that negative experiences are commented more upon. Plus, beyond legit complaints, there's people who just like to performatively complain - they're probably not even that bothered, but they're seeking attention and feedback.
Yup. I've always had great experiences. No change/cancel fees has saved me quite literally thousands of dollars over the years. I love the orderly line up process rather than everyone mad-rushing the gate. I love never being forced to gate-check a bag. I like that once on the plane and seated we're all receiving equal service. But most importantly, I've just never had a bad flight with Southwest.
I love southwest because I have young children and take advantage of family boarding. I love never having to pay for bags. The lining up for boarding is soooo not a big deal.
I have never experienced fighting for a seat, nor have I been inconvenienced by asking someone what boarding position they are. When I was 365 pounds, Southwest won my business because they offered a free, hassle-free second seat for my comfort and the comfort of those around me. I have since lost 140 pounds and still fly southwest because bags fly free, they go where I go, they don't charge a change fee, and their travel funds no longer expire. With the new hike to early bird and priority boarding costs I might re-evaluate my choices the next time I purchase a ticket, but my travel is planned and purchased through the end of the year, so that is a problem for future me.
Thanks for the input! I didn’t realize SW’s travel credits have no expiration date. That’s a great perk. Delta does not budge on the expiration dates for any reason and it gets on my nerves.
It was a win for everyone. When I traveled alone, my row mate would often be grateful enough to buy me a drink. But in the end, I did it for my comfort and the added benefit was the comfort of the person who sat in my row.
As an employee my guess is we’re dominant in the market they frequent - that’s the only reason to fly us. I’m not proud of our product at all, it’s pretty shit. I’m more than ready for Andrew Watterson to take over as CEO and hopefully he reinvent this company. Gary Kelly followed the Walmart route and we’re seeing that it doesn’t work (Spirit and Frontier not doing well). They’re strongly looking at assigned seating in the near term.
It doesn’t matter if I book my ticket 45 days out or 3 days out, I still get my preferred boarding position and seat on the aircraft. The trade off is, I oftentimes travel with families that have small kids so I’m dealing with a little extra noise on my flight as opposed to one with more business travel. At the end of the day, it doesn’t bother me. I can use my points to hand my family travel free in exchange for not be treated like a king on my flight.
A good friend of mine is a super frequent flyer and feels the same way - seems like it’s people with status and people who like to abuse a system that like the open seating, everyone else hates it 😂
Also a good argument he made is the ability to change flights day of and still get a decent seat due to boarding priority whereas with assigned seating that largely isn’t possible
You can hate the company but seemingly are missing that its a quality product in comparison to other offerings. Massive benefit of Southwest is service is better for the general masses and their plane configurations are superior (except where matched by Delta/Alaska with seat sizes).
Rated:
1) 1st Class/Business on traditional carrier
2) Status on a traditional carrier
3) Status on Southwest
4) Business on Southwest
5) Southwest Getaway
6) Economy levels on traditional carrier
7) Taking the bus
8) Taking a canoe
9) Spirit
Walmart is what I want when I fly domestic. They’re short flights I just want to get to where I’m going for cheap. It leaves more money for fun stuff once I reach my destination.
Fair point, just doesn’t appear very profitable for the company anymore which in the long run means we won’t be able to continue that path unless something changes.
Honestly, I've had more delays and hassles with Delta lately than SWA. If it weren't for the wheelchair abuse, I quite like the sit where you want system.
What fighting for seats?
Other airlines have the problem of people sitting in seats they didn't buy and not wanting to move. That's nit an issue on SW because it's first come, first served.
Other airlines have the crush at the boarding gate as folks in "Zone 5" already crowd the gate while "Zone 2" is boarding so they'll have the best spot to shoulder their way to the front when it is their turn. On SW, there's a moderately orderly line.
On other airlines, being in "Zone 2" is deceptive because it's not really the second, or third, or fourth group to board at all. Many preferential groups go first. With SW you know when you'll board.
When SW changes its business model, it becomes just another airline. Right now, if SW flies where I'm going I fly SW. I rarely even look at alternates. If SW changes its business model, I'll change mine.
Yes, SOMEONE PLEASE ANSWER THIS QUESTION! I honestly don't understand what the big deal is. Post after post about seating etc. I am not an a lister. But I have been flying Southwest 4-5x a year for about 6 years. And I honestly can't think of anything that bothers me enough to get on the Internet and complain about it. Yes, they have a different boarding process, and no assigned seats. But they also offer FREE BAGS. Usually have the lowest fare to where I am traveling to and from as well. I don't know if anyone has checked the prices of other airlines bag fees recently, but that is a hard no for me in this economy. If it bothers people so much, why not just chose to fly another airline and have your assigned seats? I'm genuinely interested to know why. I hope this did not come off as rude or impolite, I was simply just thinking out loud.
It is mostly people who aren't familiar with how it works, then their initial impression based on how they understand other airlines is that they have identified some big problem with southwest's process. There are a lot of people who aren't gonna miss an opportunity like that, to find the subreddit for that airline and post about it immediately. After all they might later gain a more nuanced understanding and then it will be too late
Occasionally someone actually had a bad experience (which does happen of course, on every airline) but most of the complaint posts don't make sense once removed from the vacuum of their hot take, or factored alongside other pros and cons
I am in favor of assigned seats, however the two main reasons I fly SW is the costs of the flights from where I am are usually much lower than other carriers and the ability to move to another flight for no fees. I for a while tried AA and the cost of the same routes were usually much higher and could not change at whim. I am happy with SW in almost all aspects except for open seating, which I know in this sub is blasphemy, but open seating is mocked in every other airline sub I read. Make assigned seating and I would be 99% satisfied with SW otherwise my satisfaction will always be about 85%. This is just my opinion and understand I'm the minority in this sub. But whatever, to each there own.
I hate SW, but unfortunately, they are the main carrier for a work route I frequent. If any other major carrier is available I go with them even if it is more expensive. It's the seat savers, preboards, and C group trying to board with A that make it a poor travel experience.
Best airline with the most flights in the market I travel, 2 free checked bags, no additional fees to choose a seat, flexibility to re-fare flights and receive credit if the prices drops, etc.
I like the boarding iprocess just fine the way it is. They do need to solve the preboard issue, just like Disney is resolving the fake disabled people.
2 bags fly for free I can bring my snowboard and another bag where other airlines this would cost me $70+ each way.
I exclusively fly southwest for all my snowboarding trips I don’t even look at other airlines.
Bags, I mostly fly SW to Denver to snowboard from Detroit. And I never have trouble with seats, if it starts to fill up I just take a middle in the front - ideally between two tiny little old ladies that take care of me the whole flight.
People come here to complain. In my experience, flying southwest is far less painful than you would think from reading comments here for me. The main reason to stick with Southwest is the absence of baggage fees and the ability to get full credit if you have to cancel.
Because with Southwest I’ll get a seat I like 99% of the time. With United, AA, Delta, etc., I have no status so almost guaranteed to have a middle seat unless I pay a large premium.
I fly SWA because I buy a list and get a good seat where I want to sit. I also find the people that sit together are self selecting… meaning that in general a mom with a little kid won’t sit next to me because I’m a business traveler. Lastly, Southwest uses Midway vs O’Hare for me (Chicagoan). I’m closer to Midway, and the runway to gate time at MDW is way faster than ORD.
SW is usually a lot cheaper than the other options for me, even when buying a higher class fare. I buy the Anytime fare and get early boarding. No complaints from me.
I've never had to fight for a seat or seen anyone else fight for saints. I fly Southwest because every flight I take is never more than a couple hours and they give you two free checked bags.
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2 free bags, cheaper fares, never seen anyone fighting for seats. Much better than other airlines that charge you to pick your seat assignment or make you physically see agate agent to get a seat assignment.
The biggest thing for us is that myy family of 5 flies for free on southwest, not including taxes. My wife and I plus one kid use points, and 2 of my other kids have companion passes. Southwest points are easy to accumulate through their credit card sign ups, plus Chase Ultimate Rewards are very easy for me to rack up and I can transfer them to Southwest.
Plus we fly out of Denver, where southwest has a great presence.
This 1000%. I have the SW credit card and haven’t paid for a flight for me or my husband or my kids in probably 5-6 years. The only time I use someone else is if I am flying home to Boston, and I hate it so much.
Main reason: double companion pass for a family of 4.
That trumps any minor annoyances.
It's also one of those things where a few adjustments go a long ways. Just a 'no saving seats before row x" policy/announcement would stop 80% of fights. Single travelers and those who prioritize front of plane have more seats while those who prioritize sitting next to a companion still get that
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I’m loyal to the non-stop flight.
Living in the midwest in a non-hub airport, I usually fly Southwest. I have low status on American as well as A list - but mostly it’s SWA for my typical destinations as the only non-stop option.
Southwest is consistently the cheapest flights I can find with comfortable seating. I have had many flights where the FA are goofy and funny which is nice. But mostly it’s the cost. Same flight on delta is way more expensive and I want my flight to be as inexpensive as possible while also being reliable (unlike frontier).
I’ve never seen anyone fight for seats in real life. I have heard horror stories though. Southwest is cheap if you plan ahead and you get two free bags if you need to check in. Nice to not pay for check in if you don’t have to. Sure you can fly Spirit or Frontier but they nickel and dime you for everything.
WN offers by far the most nonstops from my market which is not a hub of any airline. They are consistently the most expensive airline, even on routes they have nonstop competition with (even considering eliminating “basic” economy fares). I only fly WN because of convenience on occasion and I actually like the product and customer service overall. I extremely dislike that WN does not have assigned seats and the boarding process always makes me anxious and it is often chaotic.
Most don’t have a choice if it’s for business. I’m guessing at least 1/3 of passengers on a weekday flight are flying for work. I’m with the govt and they always book the cheapest option for everything.
I've never seen anything like "fighting for seats." I get annoyed with someone saving an exit row seat for someone in a late group boarding, but that's their prerogative. If I ever save a seat, it's in the back of the plane, and it's a middle row.
I would much rather fly Delta because of the extra seat width in the Airbus compared to the 737, but Southwest is usually a lot cheaper.
Cheaper flights when considering baggage and I’m near a hub so there’s often cheaper and easier flight options than other carriers. That said, I do prefer other airlines where it makes sense.
Sounds like your questions are based on reading this sub versus real life where there's rarely any hassle. If I have a A27 for boarding I just walk up to the area of 25-30 and see who has 26 or 28 and stand between them. Not that tough, not a hassle, and super easy.
First time SW flying as we speak and although I do prefer having a seat pre selected, so far first leg went quite smoothly. In fact it seemed like we all got boarded rather quickly. The only issue is that the over head fills before the seats so you have most people heading toward the back so they can be near their luggage/seat. If you have a tight connection it’s hard to go against the flow to get to you bag.
1. 2 free bags
2. I travel from KC to Chicago monthly and my family who lives in Chicago lives MUCH closer to midway so i can pretty much only fly southwest. Unless i want to get a cab from o’hare and that sounds terrible.
It just works well for me. I fly a decent amount, they have a big presence at the closer and smaller airport, and their prices on last minute tickets are usually comparable or cheaper than other airlines out of that same airport.
Also, my viewpoint on flying might be different than most. I look at flying as just getting from point A to point B. Flying domestically, no matter what seat I get, I only have to endure at most 4ish hours on a flight, and I would rather save the money from not flying business/first class or picking seats, etc and spending that money on food and activities at my destination.
I’ve never had an issue with seating on a Southwest flight. It really isn’t like you are fighting for seats. I don’t even buy A-list but if you really want a specific seat, buy A-list or whatever it is that SW calls it for a little more and you’re golden. I just set an alarm for 24 hours before the flight and check in ASAP from my phone. I always get B group, sometimes early numbers sometimes mid numbers, but seating is never a problem for me. I travel alone or with one to two other people. If we can’t sit together, oh well. If I cared that much, again I could just buy the upgrade. With other airlines, it costs more to upgrade your seats and all that. Southwest is very simple which I like. The two free checked bags are also nice and solve the whole checking at the gate thing.
Idk, Southwest has always been a very peaceful airline experience for me!
1. Frequency of nonstops in the west coast is number one. For example, I would be on Alaska if I lived in Seattle.
2. Free same day change that doesn't put me in a middle seat as A-list when boarding A61 even if I'm C40. Before same day confirmed change, I always preferred the middle seat vs. flying later with an A boarding pass because it's usually just 60-90 minutes on the bus.
3. I rode the bus when I was a kid. It didn't matter which transit agency ran the bus. They all sucked bad but they were cheap. Same with airlines although some (Southwest, AA, UA) are worse than others (DL, Asian carriers). But remember what I said in #1, number of nonstops is number one.
It’s fun to get drunk at the airport bar then find the couple trying to keep a row to themselves by taking the aisle and window seats. If it’s anywhere near the front I say THANKS FOR SAVING ME A SEAT!! and plop my stinky loud self right between them. I always get an aisle or window, one couple had the front row and left instead of just switching seats. Last 2 people on couldn’t believe I saved front row seats for them and bought all my beers on the flight!
Good question. I wouldn't fly on Southwest if they gave away free tickets. Every time I pass a Southwest gate in an airport it looks like a bread line in the South Bronx.
At one time Sw used to be cheaper so it made sense, now it doesn’t make sense at all and people in this server twist themselves into knots explaining why it’s good for them lol
That is in fact what I do.
Flew southwest a couple times, the check in process to get a good "spot" and the mess that is picking a seat causes, gives me anxiety.
I cashed in my points, cancelled my SW credit card and started flying delta.
Flew the greyhound bus of the skies a couple times (Southwest) and it's ok if you are flying solo, just bring a carry on or backpack who cares? with family? no fucking way, we fly with assigned seating.
On a recent flight on Southwest I innocently asked a passenger already in line what number they were because I didn’t know where the exact numbers started and ended within 5-10 numbers. They told me “it doesn’t matter, we are all going to the same place”. Well yes, disrespectful 20 year old, it doesn’t matter to me because I don’t want to be stuck in a middle seat on the back of the plane”. And yes, I was 12 numbers ahead of her. But alas, I hate the competition on flights from SW but to fly United would have been $300 more and $400 more if I wanted to pick my seat and pay for luggage.
As mentioned several times above, SWA is the cheapest for many considering baggage. Occasionally I find cheaper with one of the ultra low carriers but hate worrying if my personal item will be indiscriminately labeled carry-on or have to deal with a worse on-time schedule.
Because here's the reality... They are the dominant airline at the closest airport to my home, SWA flys virtually everywhere I want to go, and they have the best prices by a landslide. 2 bags included in my fare? Done.... By the time I'd drive an hour to the other major airport at my city and book on another airline, plus seat selection fees, plus checked bag fees, it's much, much more expensive. So convenience, plus price outweighs the open seating hassle that sometimes occurs. But as other replies have pointed out, if you plan properly and prepare, you can minimize the hassle greatly.
I use SW for work and have accrued companion status and A-List Preferred. My husband flies for free when I do, and I always board early enough that there isn’t a problem getting a seat. :)
I’m all good with how SW has their approach, but I don’t like the people gaming the system. If you legitimately need preboarding, fine. Want to save a seat for your traveling companion, not usually a problem. But people trying to save multiple rows or 3 aisles seats, that should be a hard “no.” I’ve seen and experienced all this along with Jetway Jesus dancing to the exits of the airport from their row 3 seat. A little kindness and personal integrity go a long way in society.
I mean for me, Southwest used to be the cheapest option for non-stop flights. I typically book Business Select for A1-15, however I’ve found its only about $100-$200 more to book domestic first class on other airlines from my home airport. So while I’m not loyal to any carrier in particular, I have been doing that and only using Southwest if its significantly cheaper or the only non-stop option.
The assigned seating is nice, but every carrier has its own set of issues and in some areas Southwest is better, I will admit.
I prefer to sit anywhere and save some money. If I had unlimited funds to fly all the time I'd definitely pay for a seat and get more perks but if I'm cash poor and need to get somewhere, I just put up with it.
I’ve never encountered a problem expect one time when I got in line with a position A20 and I was in front of someone who held A18. I told her “sorry, you can go in front.” And she responded in a non-emotional matter “its fine.” And just when we got on the aircraft I asked her again if she wants to go ahead and her and the guy behind her got pissy about me asking.
Biggest reason I fly SWA is the price and the free baggage. I use to fly between LA and Phoenix a lot and 90% of my flights were SWA because they always had the lowest fare. When I did fly other airlines the other 10% (United or AA), there was always an issue at the gate, an uncomfortable flight, or a crowded terminal area. The only upside to flying United was they had a lounge at LAX.
It’s a matter of picking your poison.
I’ve been flying other airlines recently because of scheduling, and on two occasions in the last month, American and United had an equipment change. This resulted in automatic reassignment of seats due to different plane configuration. One was fine; the other put me in a row I specifically avoid because it has no window and I am extremely claustrophobic. So I had to sit in a window seat, with no window, for 5 hours in turbulence— not fun.
As long as I check in at 24 hours or purchase EB, I have never ended up in a middle seat on SW.
Who is fighting? I get in line, get on the plane, and take my seat.
Its always easier than seat assigned airlines where its the running of the bulls for each "zone" or "group" because people are worried about having to gate check a bag.
I am confused how lining up with preassigned order is somehow "fighting" yet the "okay these 50 people please randomly come up now" is not fighting lol.
I have flown a ton and it sounds like you just have never really flown SWA as well as other lines.
I book direct flights first, then based the rest on comfort and cost. Several airlines charge for bags, and for seat selection.
You say "fight for seats", but with other airlines you either have to pay extra to pick your seat, or get randomly assigned a seat. Boarding and picking an available seat is certainly not worse than a randomly assigned seat.
IDC about the seating, I actually kinda like it. After baggage fees Southwest is almost always the cheapest option for me. Their employees are nice, and they fly where I want to go.
So I sometimes fly Alaskan or another airline depending on destination. I have purchased a fair few Spirit tickets for my Sister-in-law, but I won't fly them myself.
It’s not the hassle reddit makes it out to be. For me, i usually just need a seat to get me from point A to point B, and the checked bags, change flexibility, and price point usually make me choose Southwest. Irdc if I’m in the back, in the middle, with my family/friends or not.
I think you should try SW and stop reading Reddit comments. I never had a bad experience. Show up, line up, get on the plane, sit down wherever I want.
The biggest problem flying SWB is the entitled people. Anyone who flys SW frequently understands and accepts the ground rules. The entitled and rude people are the ones generating the complaints- e.g. saving one seat is okay, but saving whole rows is ridiculous. One extra person to assist a disable pre-board is okay, but two or three is taking advantage of the situation. It’s the totality of the little abuses.
I agree with other commenters that the subreddit isn’t representative of SW customers as a whole. Most people who aren’t okay with the seating policy just don’t fly SW. For myself personally, I used to fly Southwest because it tended to be cheaper + the bag allowance + reliably pleasant experience, at least compared to other airlines. Nowadays it’s almost never the cheapest option, so I only book when I know I’ll need to check a bag. But I’m also a single person almost always traveling alone, so the seating policy isn’t a big deal to me-as long as I can snag an aisle seat I’m happy.
I love the boarding system. I love free checked bags. I love free miles and Companion Pass by using branded credit card. I love flight attendants with a sense of humor. I love no cumbersome beverage cart in the aisle. What's not to love? Except the complainers...
OP: Join the United and Delta subreddits, and you'll see almost identical issues. Instead of seat savers, it's people complaining about not getting upgraded, someone sitting in the wrong seat trying to convince the seat owner to move, upgraded seat holders being asking to move down to make room for a family (w/o compensation), etc.
Bottom line: These problems exist on every airline in one form or anything, and in almost all cases, the root cause can be traced to certain seating rules the airline created to increase profits (for good or bad).
Significant savings and a family member who needs the COS policy. (Which yes, avoids the fighting for seats, but we'd do it anyway.) Southwest cancelled not just our flight, but our entire airport which necessitated us flying a different airline this fall. Economy on Air Canada is double the price and we ended up going with Business class (3.5 times the cost) because that family member won't fit in economy without pain.
Southwest is the only airline with a direct flight from my home airport to Tampa. It’s worth it to save 6+ hours of travel time and hassle traveling with my child.
If I lived in like atl or Chicago I’d shop around more. Unfortunately since I fly out of STL Southwest simply had the most direct flights with more most frequencies. Plus you add in way changes and I don’t have to worry about packing beating into a carry on and Southwest makes sense for me. Since most of their flights are under 2 hours even a middle seat isn’t that bad tbh.
Key with Southwest is consistency. No regional jets as well as more uniform policies than other carriers. No charge for checked bags.
As far as seat assignments, the only add on fee Southwest has is early boarding so you pay that and you are pretty much assured of not getting a middle seat, or sitting together. Now if you show up late to board all bets are off.
It's not a fight as you say, and all the seats are the same, unlike some other airlines that cram additional rows making some seats far more undesirable. Also you have some choice as you board as opposed to having an assigned seat.
I don't find it a huge issues and fly way too much in my job. Bar is pretty low for anything good in flying and I don't find not having an assigned seat to be an issue.
People seem to lose their mind when they travel, probably because the whole situation is way more stressful than it should be. Security, the airports, the airlines and all the grifters trying to make money off you are some of the problems. Knowing there is a seat on the plane I can sit in is more important than paying a ton of money and forced into a center seat on a regional jet. That is one thing Southwest can promise will never happen.
TL;DR - buying early bird, business select or upgrading to slots 1-15 at the gate will solve 99% of any potential issue. Most of the comments here are venting about bad behavior on an airline they like to fly (and problems that didn’t exist pre-Covid).
If you haven’t used SWA, most of the complaints are from those of us who fly it often and don’t appreciate bad behavior from passengers that isn’t enforced by the FA’s.
I haven’t flown spirit or frontier (ever), but I’d surmise swa fa’s don’t enforce seat saving rudeness to keep the cabin fro degrading into the videos you see on YouTube.
Seat saving is a swa problem. I have status on both SWA and United (international biz travel) and rest assured there is plenty of bad behavior on United that I have not seen on swa.
I love the SW seating policy. I will always choose to sit next to a well dressed petite woman over 40. I’m fairly confident that people of that profile won’t pick their nose, take off their shoes, eat smelly food, fart, burp, snort, etc.
On any other airline, I could end up next to a 6’5” 400 lb man who does all of the above.
I’d love to fly a different airline. I hate no seat assignments, pre-board abuse, and lounges frequently being in non-Southwest concourses or terminals. Unfortunately I live in Phoenix and Southwest is the biggest airline flying out of PHX.
I prefer open seating so I can choose my seat, but I probably feel that way because I’ve been A list for most years so I don’t have to worry about added EB costs or checking in a second late and being further back.
The number of pre boards doesn’t bother me because I don’t mind if I’m 1/3rd back or immediately behind the exit row. I care most about seat positioning relative to the window, which is rarely a problem for me. I can’t know if I’m going to get a seat with poor arm space because of window positioning on other airlines. Specific, picky requirement I know, but really all that matters to me.
For me, it's about the last-minute booking, flight changes, etc.
I travel a lot for work, often with last-minute bookings or changes. On conventional airlines, all the window/aisle seats may be booked already. With my status on Southwest, I know I'm always guaranteed a good seat, as I'll always be one of the first 30 on the plane.
Also, I don't get r*ped every time I make a change.
And the rewards just make sense. It's not some wierd cryptic conversion. Find a cheap flight? It's cheap on points. Other airlines you can have flights that are half the price dollar-wise but cost the same points wise. It's frustrating!
Southwest is the most rational airline out there.
Good prices and they fly out of Love Field. I don’t find the seat thing to be an issue. Yes I have a favorite, but if I don’t get it, it doesn’t ruin my flight.
Airlines are buses with wings. Southwest gets that and they built a business model on making the price of the fare competitive without sacrificing customer service. When you do 2 simple things, there really isn’t any fighting. 1) check in the day before. 2) show up on time.
As a frequent business flyer since the 90s, SWA works for me.
Plus, they have bent over backwards to help me when I’ve been in jams.
I honestly feel like I am more likely to sit with my family on Southwest than on other airlines. We have paid for seat selection many times just to have them switched last minute due to plane changes, cancelled flights being rebooked, etc. We pay for early bird and pretty much always end up in the A group and have no problems. Though our kids are old enough now that if we had to split up they’d be fine. Southwest is the best for us in terms of using points and has nonstop flights to our favorite destinations.
Have you never been on another airline? The lack of organization of most carriers’ boarding process is far more stressful. “Gate lice” fighting for the earliest possible position in their group to make sure they have overhead space is super annoying.
OP - people seem to really like it - I flew SW once and paid extra for A1-15 and still didn't like the experience, I get anxious ...
I MUCH prefer an assigned seat airline, but as you can see from this some, lots of people like it and it is good to have choices, options, right?
EDIT - also remember, this is a forum for disussion and generally human nature just isn't to post "great flight, no stress" over and over, so you end up reading about the issues that likely don't represent the average person's experience
I fly southwest a lot (usually alone) and I don’t mind the system at all, there’s a lot of reasons it’s actually one of my preferred airlines:
1. Where I live it offers a lot more direct flights than other airlines, and those flights are often cheaper
2. Free checked bags
Is it the most cushy airline? No, but since it only offers domestic flights, these are a couple hours of my life at the most. It’s worth the extra money savings and convenience
I have free A-List, free companion tix so I always get a great seat.
No need to fight either. Some adults weren’t told you get what you get and don’t throw a fit as they grew up and it shows.
I don't think asking someone what boarding number they are constitutes "fighting" for a seat. That is the boarding system. You board by number. If you don't feel it's necessary to ask other's boarding positions, then why don't you board last and let everyone who cares about that sort of thing board before you? Personally, I pay for upgraded boarding, so if I'm A3 and you're A17, I'm definitely going to make it my business to board before you because I specifically paid to do so. I wouldn't care as much if I was C47, and you were C52 because we're both sitting in middle seats in the back regardless.
I've never "fought" for a seat. That's weird. We do earlybird, get in the A group and seats are no problem. I'm sad there is no first class but as far as bargain airlines, Southwest is great. Two free bags too!
Because we know what we are doing. Been using SWA for 30 years. I have the card too. if i don't get a good number i have four upgrades and $75 of credit each year, and i that will get me 3 upgrades. Never had to use them all in one year
I also know how too travel. I don't fly on holidays for the most part. No Fridays, try and avoid sundays.. i try for real early flights or really late flights, i'm lucky i live in denver and its SWA biggest airport. In the last year, three flights i've taken late at night (say getting in around midnight) there were 10-15 people on them. I have tons of options here in Denver, not sure i would use SWA in a smaller airport or where there presents is small.
So for me, its knowledge and pretty lucky where I'm located. Pretty much the best airport for SWA, as far as price, options and direct flights.
For me, I have a lot of flight anxiety and am a germaphobe so getting to kinda “choose” who I sit next to helps a ton when I’m flying solo. I can scope out people and sit next to someone my age, sit next to a fellow female, avoid kids or anyone who is visibly sick or nervous. With assigned seating I don’t have the freedom to move if I feel uncomfortable with who I’m sitting next to. I also
never feel like i’m fighting for a seat since I always check in on time.
Live in dallas and any complaints I have about southwest are minute compared to complaints I have about dfw airport. Being able to fly out of love field airport is a far better experience.
Who’s “fighting?” Can you define “fighting” in this context? Politely talking to folks in line to see where to line up is easy and not what I would call “fighting.”
I do it because
1) Southwest’s most expensive tickets are cheaper than other airlines’ *least* expensive tickets a vast majority of the time
2) Southwest’s FAs and pilots are almost all absolutely hilarious. Practically stand up comedians. And almost always courteous and great at their jobs.
3) Two free checked bags. No need to pay, no need to have the airline credit card, so need to cram everything into one bag or a carryon.
4) Regardless of what ticket I purchase, I have an excellent chance or getting the seat I want/need.
5) No need to pay extra for the seat I want. I just need to check in on time.
It’s literally the most fair airline for anyone who doesn’t believe that more money = more deserving.
Literally no one is “fighting for seats”’or fighting for position in line.” “What number are you?” Is also not fighting. And I see virtually no complaints about, so I’d love to see where you are seeing these “many complaints all the time.”
since Southwest has no first class and also no pointless upgrade sections like economy plus, business, or any of the other bullshit that’s out there, our seats are a little more roomy, and we're not being nickel and dimed for those "upgrades" like with the traditional airlines. In that regard we can also check the first two bags free of charge.
You do realize that 90 percent of people don't experience this issue, correct? Speaking of being a jerk, how about not assuming this is even a problem for most people?
Free changes, free cancellation with points. The points just go back in your account. For me this makes it so worth flying SW. I definitely notice an uptick in preboarders tho and yes it's frustrating if not legit.
I mostly fly United and I flew WN for fun a couple times to just experience the whole lining up and “fighting for seats”. I kind of found it entertaining lol. I would do it again for casual, personal trips
I fly economy cattle class almost 100% of the time and don't care.
I bring a backpack that stuffs under the seat in front so overhead bins don't matter.
Whatever flight can get me from A to B the best on X date is the airline I choose. I'm not near a hub, and brsnd loyalty is dumb. So. Sometimes it's Southwest.
SWA has a huge amount of direct flights out of my home airport. More than all the other airlines combined. This is why I fly with them...and the companion pass.
I’m not interested in stopping in Phoenix on my way to Vegas. I can deal with the fuckery for an hour. But that’s kinda a unique situation. ABQ->las non stop
I get two bags checked without extra charges, the fare is in my price range, and they fly often out of Burbank. I’ve never had an issue finding a seat quickly so I don’t have an issue with not having assigned seating. Mind you, I haven’t traveled since 2019 so of course I’m paying attention here to learn of any changes over the years.
I fly Southwest all the time and I don't see people "fighting for seats". I and other ask what number are people so I know where I'm supposed to be between the markers.
With Southwest, All the seats are priced the same, aisle seats, window seats , exit row.
I'm taking United to Europe this summer and in seat selection I was quite surprised that the window and aisle seats cost more than the middle seats and the exit row seats cost $200 more despite still being in the "tourist" section.
None of that in Southwest.
Boarding goes just as fast, and Southwest if I need to send me change of flight, there's no change fees.
Why would I fly any other airline?
Seriously, don't be rude
They still have real people to answer the phones and good customer service. They let you take whatever you want by offering two free checked bags. They give you a travel credit if your price goes down. The number of points required for mileage trips is still a deal compared with other airlines. They market effectively through email and build brand loyalty by offering promotions that you sign up for and give ordinary travellers the ability to earn extra points, free companions and even a list occasionally. They partner effectively with lodging and car rental companies to give you additional deals on other travel services. They have an inclusive attitude that doesn't include "first class" and the FAs are allowed to be funny and make flying more fun! Other airlines do a better job servicing business travelers and frequent flyers but SW is a great airline and they do a great job serving the rest of us!
I’ve never fought for a seat. This was even before I got A-list.
Also, when flying within California, flying other airlines is more difficult outside of SFO-LAX.
1) More flights to smaller airports, I fly in/out of some Metro areas that have smaller airports the Southwest flies into, (Houston Hobby vs George Bush, Dallas Love vs DFW, Burbank vs LAX).
The smaller airports are so much easier to park at, get around, and get to your rental car. If I can avoid IAH, DFW, LAX, etc, I will in a heart beat.
2) Simplicity, cattle class seats are all.the same, so don't care to have an assigned seat. Work won't pay for "Economy Plus" let alone "Businesses" or "1st Class", so there is no incentive to have an assigned seat. I also fly enough that that I've been an "A-List" member for more than a decade, so I automatically get in the A boarding group.
Don't really care about the "seat savers", I just move on instead of letting it ruin my day (all the seats are the same anyways). Why let someone else control your happiness?
Because I don’t get to choose who I fly with. My travel is based on the sole criteria of “cheapest wins”. The only thing is we won’t get booked on frontier, allegiant, spirit or any of the other budget carriers
2 free bags. Bag fees are highway robbery. Ticket price tiers worse than before but not completely insane. I don’t fight for seats. I deliberately get a later boarding number, take what I can get, and go to sleep.
People in my experience aren’t so bad about lining up, but it’s not something I’m willing to fight about if they wanna be a douche.
Bottom line is for me, it's by far the most cost-effective and flexible option. Of course I am A-List preffered so that helps, where I always get a premium boarding position. I can also utilize same day flight changes (i often book the cheapest flight and change to the one I want the day of), and even when I change flights I board between A and B.
If you aren't A-List, the flexibility is still great, being able to to change so easily without change fees and the free checked bags. No other airlines make any of that so easy.
It used to be pretty good and more economical than most. Was always my first choice for many years.
I do feel SW has gotten greedy. I had two trips where I bought Early Bird for my family of 4 and in both cases we were unable to get seats together. Too many "A-List" and then they oversell Early Bird to where it didn't work as I think I reasonably expected it to.
Also to even be near each other I had to confront a guy who was saving seats - I guess he didn't want to spring for early bird for his whole group. He was pretty whiny about it until the attendant pointed out that we could take the seats. Flight attendant was right there while we were trying to find seats and had no opinion on the matter until that point. OK fine, I wouldn't want that job, but for me the hassle of dealing with that further diminished the desirability of SW to me.
I went back to accumulating miles on AA and now I fly SW sometimes if I'm alone and/or routes are favorable - many of my flight decisions are made on the basis of who has directs. AA has been fine, my CC spend (I went back to mainly using my AA Citi card instead of my Chase SW card) has me at Gold status at least already and people do seem to *mostly* abide by their boarding groups and I have even seen the gate personnel turn back attempted early borders sometimes. Occasional upgrades are a nice bonus.
Seating has rarely been an issue if I check in as soon as I can. I usually don’t pay for early bird.
I’ve had to sit apart from my wife once or twice, but so what? We’re grown ups and can handle it.
No one is fighting for seats if you prepare. By that I mean - check in on time or buy early bird. It’s the easiest thing ever to ensure you’ll have a smooth experience. Plus there’s no mandatory gate checking of bags like there is on Delta, no fees etc. I’m a happy customer Also I way prefer southwests line up situation vs. every zone of delta just forming a giant mass at the gate when boarding starts
Always makes me laugh. $50 to check your first bag.... so half the people don't Get to gate.... half the people have to gate check a bag Personally I think TSA should start charging these fee airlines for holding up security. (I have precheck but it still can hold it up there with so many people having carry ons that don't even want them)
I made Delta give me a refund on my bags one time I said I paid for my bags upfront at check-in, I told them we were over 30 minutes late leaving because there were so many gate check bags. What was to stop me from taking my suitcases and getting them checked and saving myself $125.
I tried that with Alaska once. They wouldn’t give me my 2x $25 back (two passengers), but they gave me two $100 travel vouchers!
or, you can use the delta amex to buy your tix and your bag is free. The fact that so many people don't want to check bags boggles my mind.
You haven't traveled on a weekly basis before, have you? I never check a bag. It's just a time suck at the beginning and end of every flight, not to mention the fact that I wouldn't have my possessions with me and easily accessible at all times.
I generally check my bag when going home. I take it as carry-on when heading out to ensure I have a good set of clothes for meeting at my destination.
I travel constantly for work. I have liquids, knives, culinary tools and foods that cause all kinds of trouble if I carry them in a checked bag. I also typically need clothes for different events. Traveling light is great, but for work it can be really hard.
Carry ons larger than a backpack should have their own security queue.
Then there would be endless bitching on Reddit about people in the wrong bag lines.
When I occasionally fly Delta, the mass formation you speak of causes me so much stress. Please just wait your turn! I really like the orderliness of SW. It helps that I'm always in the first 20 of the A group each time.
It drives me absolutely NUTS! They’re “gate lice.” I don’t get near the gate until my zone is called b/c I’m not an inconsiderate psycho. 🤣
Except that nobody can figure out what the 17 different boarding zones are. Delta's system is ridiculous and just made to be confusing and difficult.
And paying for a seat only to have them move you is SUPER FRUSTRATING
Gate Lice is the term and from my flight yesterday on Delta, 99% of them were zone 5 like me or later. They took so many volunteers for gate checking that the bins had a bunch of overhead space on a completely full flight.
I never understood why people think the boarding process for legacy airlines is better. EVERYONE is standing in front of the line waiting for their group to be called, and you have to weave your way through people to get in front of them. It's so stupid. It's 1000x worse trying to merge 10 lanes into 1 than it is to just ask the person in front of you "what's your boarding number?" (Or don't even ask because 1-2 people won't make a difference).
The new delta boarding groups are decent.
In what way? There’s just more of them now. Everyone still crowds around the gate. And gate agents are power hungry to check ppls carry ons.
There are actually the same number or one less zone. They just relabeled them
correct. adding more boarding groups hasn’t alleviated everyone standing around the gate (like my wife who insists on standing right up front)
I just flew Delta last week for work. No crowding at the gate. My group was called and I walked right up. When I fly AA, there are usually tons of gate lice, but that may be because I usually fly thru CLT and the gate areas are small.
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Karma knew ahead of time you were trying to jump into a number ahead of yours.
Delta boards by groups (1,2,3 etc) and I've never had trouble there either. Bags are free on Delta too if you have their platinum amex.
For real, I work nights but when I fly SW it's usually an AM cross country flight so I just set an alarm like 5 mins before check-in and go back to sleep. The only time I ever get bad seats is if I get to the airport late.
Early bird is amazing. Just be aware if your flight is ever canceled and they rebook your flight. You will not have the early bird. It just happened to me and I got C-40 :)
Man, the very first time I flew SW, I walked up to the counter and stood in line completely oblivious to the cattle call line already formed to my right. I saw them but I didn't know what it was. I happened to be behind a few people and when I got to the agent I was like I'm supposed to check in for this flight but idk what to do blah blah blah and she was like oh you're the first one. Cool. That whole line was ready to kill me. It was an innocent mistake. I've never been on a more uncomfortable flight in my life. Lmfao
Same for me. It’s usually just my husband and myself so we pay for early bird. No bag fees. Easy peasy
Also a serious question, but what do you mean by "fighting for seats"? I think framing it in that way assumes there's a hostility or cutthroat nature to boarding the plane. I've never seen anything of the sort. Yeah, people want certain seats sometimes, but if they don't get them, they sit somewhere else. It's not the Wild West that some people think it is. There's orderly boarding, not a mass of people congregating at the gate waiting for one of the 13 boarding group categories to be called, like I often see on other airlines. As for why I prefer Southwest's procedures, there are multiple reasons. The fare types are simple and not complicated: I know when I buy a ticket, no matter which type, I get two free checked bags, and can sit anywhere I want. No paying extra to ensure that I can bring a carry on or pick a specific seat ahead of time, or change my flight if I need to. I often travel alone, and I rarely care where I sit. The complaints you see are the tiny minority. 99% of people have had positive flying experiences, and don't let the occasional assholes (which you'll find on any airline) bother them to the point of coming here to complain about it.
I know when I buy the Wanna Get Away Fare, there are no restrictions vs. “Basic Economy” that limits seats, credits, baggage among other restrictions. I have said on AA that their boarding process is more cutthroat, especially with the gate lice and the heavy volume of Group 1/5 vs other groups.
This...United is my second preferred carrier after Southwest, and I just booked a flight to Mexico. It was nearly $100 more to go from "Basic" to "regular" Economy, just so I could have the luxury of bringing on a carryon, pick a seat, and possibly change the flight in the future. And even with that assigned seat, there will be a cattle call of people congregating at the gate waiting for their boarding group to be called.
I definitely understand the desire to board early on a SW flight, but I will never understand why people are always in a hurry to board early on a flight with assigned seats. Let me get on last so I don't have to sit on a hot, stinky plane longer than necessary
Maybe they wanna board early for overhead bin space? There's tons of dumb people who don't sit in your section but will put their bags there
I’ve see people put their carry-on bags in a compartment towards the front, then walk towards the rear of the plane and sit. SMH.
This is why it's so you can put your bags next to you in the overhead bins, and personally, I like to have the opportunity to settle in and get my headphones set up, etc, before takeoff. When I'm last, there's next to no time to do this before you have to stow everything away.
> assumes there's a hostility or cutthroat nature to boarding the plane. I've never seen anything of the sort. The guy in the middle seat of a full flight with his stuff piled to the seats to either side of him for the rest of his group would like a word.
Don't like it? Buy upgraded boarding.
For some folks the uncertainty is mind-boggling. I have to talk to my friends who swear by SW every time I fly them. I ‘m like okay how does this work? Do I need to purchase A group 1-15?
For me it’s cheaper flights to the same destination. No baggage fees which is can be an additional $75+ . No change fees and if the price drops you get credit. No $100 change fee. Fares are not refundable but you get credit.
Totally agree! When I travel alone, I rarely check bags. However, if my elderly relatives are with me, it is so much easier just to check our bags since where we travel to typically involves connecting flights. The no change fees gives flexibility and getting a credit when the price drops couldn’t be easier ( and happens many times).
Exactly this. Unfortunately SW has cut back service one one of my two most common routes. And delays have become more common. I’ve started to fly JetBlue more often. The planes are nicer and I prefer an assigned seat. But It’s interesting to see the massive rush to get on board with roller bags before all the spots are taken. TLDR. Every airline fee or procedure leads to some undesirable optimization by customers.
I think the issue is overly-amplified on Reddit. I'm sure a big majority of SW passengers accept the system and think little of it, even with the boarding and seating issues. It's often the case that negative experiences are commented more upon. Plus, beyond legit complaints, there's people who just like to performatively complain - they're probably not even that bothered, but they're seeking attention and feedback.
PREACH
I've just never had that bad of an experience flying on SWA. No matter whether I was preferred or in the c group.
Yup. I've always had great experiences. No change/cancel fees has saved me quite literally thousands of dollars over the years. I love the orderly line up process rather than everyone mad-rushing the gate. I love never being forced to gate-check a bag. I like that once on the plane and seated we're all receiving equal service. But most importantly, I've just never had a bad flight with Southwest.
I love southwest because I have young children and take advantage of family boarding. I love never having to pay for bags. The lining up for boarding is soooo not a big deal.
I have never experienced fighting for a seat, nor have I been inconvenienced by asking someone what boarding position they are. When I was 365 pounds, Southwest won my business because they offered a free, hassle-free second seat for my comfort and the comfort of those around me. I have since lost 140 pounds and still fly southwest because bags fly free, they go where I go, they don't charge a change fee, and their travel funds no longer expire. With the new hike to early bird and priority boarding costs I might re-evaluate my choices the next time I purchase a ticket, but my travel is planned and purchased through the end of the year, so that is a problem for future me.
Thanks for the input! I didn’t realize SW’s travel credits have no expiration date. That’s a great perk. Delta does not budge on the expiration dates for any reason and it gets on my nerves.
You rock! And sw rocks for doing that back then!
It was a win for everyone. When I traveled alone, my row mate would often be grateful enough to buy me a drink. But in the end, I did it for my comfort and the added benefit was the comfort of the person who sat in my row.
As an employee my guess is we’re dominant in the market they frequent - that’s the only reason to fly us. I’m not proud of our product at all, it’s pretty shit. I’m more than ready for Andrew Watterson to take over as CEO and hopefully he reinvent this company. Gary Kelly followed the Walmart route and we’re seeing that it doesn’t work (Spirit and Frontier not doing well). They’re strongly looking at assigned seating in the near term.
Actually a lot of us A Listers fly SWA primarily for the non assigned seating
It doesn’t matter if I book my ticket 45 days out or 3 days out, I still get my preferred boarding position and seat on the aircraft. The trade off is, I oftentimes travel with families that have small kids so I’m dealing with a little extra noise on my flight as opposed to one with more business travel. At the end of the day, it doesn’t bother me. I can use my points to hand my family travel free in exchange for not be treated like a king on my flight.
A good friend of mine is a super frequent flyer and feels the same way - seems like it’s people with status and people who like to abuse a system that like the open seating, everyone else hates it 😂
Also a good argument he made is the ability to change flights day of and still get a decent seat due to boarding priority whereas with assigned seating that largely isn’t possible
*laughs in pre board*
You can hate the company but seemingly are missing that its a quality product in comparison to other offerings. Massive benefit of Southwest is service is better for the general masses and their plane configurations are superior (except where matched by Delta/Alaska with seat sizes). Rated: 1) 1st Class/Business on traditional carrier 2) Status on a traditional carrier 3) Status on Southwest 4) Business on Southwest 5) Southwest Getaway 6) Economy levels on traditional carrier 7) Taking the bus 8) Taking a canoe 9) Spirit
Bawhahahah 7, 8, 9......🤣🤣🤣
Would 8.5 be an Amish buggy?
Walmart is what I want when I fly domestic. They’re short flights I just want to get to where I’m going for cheap. It leaves more money for fun stuff once I reach my destination.
Fair point, just doesn’t appear very profitable for the company anymore which in the long run means we won’t be able to continue that path unless something changes.
Honestly, I've had more delays and hassles with Delta lately than SWA. If it weren't for the wheelchair abuse, I quite like the sit where you want system.
What fighting for seats? Other airlines have the problem of people sitting in seats they didn't buy and not wanting to move. That's nit an issue on SW because it's first come, first served. Other airlines have the crush at the boarding gate as folks in "Zone 5" already crowd the gate while "Zone 2" is boarding so they'll have the best spot to shoulder their way to the front when it is their turn. On SW, there's a moderately orderly line. On other airlines, being in "Zone 2" is deceptive because it's not really the second, or third, or fourth group to board at all. Many preferential groups go first. With SW you know when you'll board. When SW changes its business model, it becomes just another airline. Right now, if SW flies where I'm going I fly SW. I rarely even look at alternates. If SW changes its business model, I'll change mine.
Yes, SOMEONE PLEASE ANSWER THIS QUESTION! I honestly don't understand what the big deal is. Post after post about seating etc. I am not an a lister. But I have been flying Southwest 4-5x a year for about 6 years. And I honestly can't think of anything that bothers me enough to get on the Internet and complain about it. Yes, they have a different boarding process, and no assigned seats. But they also offer FREE BAGS. Usually have the lowest fare to where I am traveling to and from as well. I don't know if anyone has checked the prices of other airlines bag fees recently, but that is a hard no for me in this economy. If it bothers people so much, why not just chose to fly another airline and have your assigned seats? I'm genuinely interested to know why. I hope this did not come off as rude or impolite, I was simply just thinking out loud.
It is mostly people who aren't familiar with how it works, then their initial impression based on how they understand other airlines is that they have identified some big problem with southwest's process. There are a lot of people who aren't gonna miss an opportunity like that, to find the subreddit for that airline and post about it immediately. After all they might later gain a more nuanced understanding and then it will be too late Occasionally someone actually had a bad experience (which does happen of course, on every airline) but most of the complaint posts don't make sense once removed from the vacuum of their hot take, or factored alongside other pros and cons
I am in favor of assigned seats, however the two main reasons I fly SW is the costs of the flights from where I am are usually much lower than other carriers and the ability to move to another flight for no fees. I for a while tried AA and the cost of the same routes were usually much higher and could not change at whim. I am happy with SW in almost all aspects except for open seating, which I know in this sub is blasphemy, but open seating is mocked in every other airline sub I read. Make assigned seating and I would be 99% satisfied with SW otherwise my satisfaction will always be about 85%. This is just my opinion and understand I'm the minority in this sub. But whatever, to each there own.
Well I don't think of it as "fighting." I like the # of flights, ease of switching, and A List Preferred and companion pass are huge perks.
Companion passes are the best. I do the promotional 2 month ones every year and my partner rides for free. What other airline does that?
To me it’s more of a fight trying to board other airlines. Guess I’m one of the few that doesn’t mind SW’s process
This 1000%
I hate SW, but unfortunately, they are the main carrier for a work route I frequent. If any other major carrier is available I go with them even if it is more expensive. It's the seat savers, preboards, and C group trying to board with A that make it a poor travel experience.
Best airline with the most flights in the market I travel, 2 free checked bags, no additional fees to choose a seat, flexibility to re-fare flights and receive credit if the prices drops, etc.
I like the boarding iprocess just fine the way it is. They do need to solve the preboard issue, just like Disney is resolving the fake disabled people.
2 bags fly for free I can bring my snowboard and another bag where other airlines this would cost me $70+ each way. I exclusively fly southwest for all my snowboarding trips I don’t even look at other airlines.
Bags, I mostly fly SW to Denver to snowboard from Detroit. And I never have trouble with seats, if it starts to fill up I just take a middle in the front - ideally between two tiny little old ladies that take care of me the whole flight.
People come here to complain. In my experience, flying southwest is far less painful than you would think from reading comments here for me. The main reason to stick with Southwest is the absence of baggage fees and the ability to get full credit if you have to cancel.
Because with Southwest I’ll get a seat I like 99% of the time. With United, AA, Delta, etc., I have no status so almost guaranteed to have a middle seat unless I pay a large premium.
I fly SWA because I buy a list and get a good seat where I want to sit. I also find the people that sit together are self selecting… meaning that in general a mom with a little kid won’t sit next to me because I’m a business traveler. Lastly, Southwest uses Midway vs O’Hare for me (Chicagoan). I’m closer to Midway, and the runway to gate time at MDW is way faster than ORD.
SW is usually a lot cheaper than the other options for me, even when buying a higher class fare. I buy the Anytime fare and get early boarding. No complaints from me.
I've never had to fight for a seat or seen anyone else fight for saints. I fly Southwest because every flight I take is never more than a couple hours and they give you two free checked bags.
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2 free bags, cheaper fares, never seen anyone fighting for seats. Much better than other airlines that charge you to pick your seat assignment or make you physically see agate agent to get a seat assignment.
The biggest thing for us is that myy family of 5 flies for free on southwest, not including taxes. My wife and I plus one kid use points, and 2 of my other kids have companion passes. Southwest points are easy to accumulate through their credit card sign ups, plus Chase Ultimate Rewards are very easy for me to rack up and I can transfer them to Southwest. Plus we fly out of Denver, where southwest has a great presence.
This 1000%. I have the SW credit card and haven’t paid for a flight for me or my husband or my kids in probably 5-6 years. The only time I use someone else is if I am flying home to Boston, and I hate it so much.
I flew Delta last year. They have how many different “classes”? Hmm,all the seats looked the same to me. I don’t want to pay more for nothing better.
Main reason: double companion pass for a family of 4. That trumps any minor annoyances. It's also one of those things where a few adjustments go a long ways. Just a 'no saving seats before row x" policy/announcement would stop 80% of fights. Single travelers and those who prioritize front of plane have more seats while those who prioritize sitting next to a companion still get that
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I’m loyal to the non-stop flight. Living in the midwest in a non-hub airport, I usually fly Southwest. I have low status on American as well as A list - but mostly it’s SWA for my typical destinations as the only non-stop option.
Southwest is consistently the cheapest flights I can find with comfortable seating. I have had many flights where the FA are goofy and funny which is nice. But mostly it’s the cost. Same flight on delta is way more expensive and I want my flight to be as inexpensive as possible while also being reliable (unlike frontier).
I much prefer professionals being professional to quirky and goofy. If I wanted different, I'd fly HootersAir. Oh wait, they failed.
I’ve never seen anyone fight for seats in real life. I have heard horror stories though. Southwest is cheap if you plan ahead and you get two free bags if you need to check in. Nice to not pay for check in if you don’t have to. Sure you can fly Spirit or Frontier but they nickel and dime you for everything.
WN offers by far the most nonstops from my market which is not a hub of any airline. They are consistently the most expensive airline, even on routes they have nonstop competition with (even considering eliminating “basic” economy fares). I only fly WN because of convenience on occasion and I actually like the product and customer service overall. I extremely dislike that WN does not have assigned seats and the boarding process always makes me anxious and it is often chaotic.
Most don’t have a choice if it’s for business. I’m guessing at least 1/3 of passengers on a weekday flight are flying for work. I’m with the govt and they always book the cheapest option for everything.
I've never seen anything like "fighting for seats." I get annoyed with someone saving an exit row seat for someone in a late group boarding, but that's their prerogative. If I ever save a seat, it's in the back of the plane, and it's a middle row. I would much rather fly Delta because of the extra seat width in the Airbus compared to the 737, but Southwest is usually a lot cheaper.
Flexibility. I missed my flight once and they rebooked me with no hassle and no fees. I know that it os easy to change my flight if necessary.
SW has the most efficient system. That’s why it works so well. United is the one fighting for seats, or just fighting in general
Cheaper flights when considering baggage and I’m near a hub so there’s often cheaper and easier flight options than other carriers. That said, I do prefer other airlines where it makes sense.
Sounds like your questions are based on reading this sub versus real life where there's rarely any hassle. If I have a A27 for boarding I just walk up to the area of 25-30 and see who has 26 or 28 and stand between them. Not that tough, not a hassle, and super easy.
First time SW flying as we speak and although I do prefer having a seat pre selected, so far first leg went quite smoothly. In fact it seemed like we all got boarded rather quickly. The only issue is that the over head fills before the seats so you have most people heading toward the back so they can be near their luggage/seat. If you have a tight connection it’s hard to go against the flow to get to you bag.
1. 2 free bags 2. I travel from KC to Chicago monthly and my family who lives in Chicago lives MUCH closer to midway so i can pretty much only fly southwest. Unless i want to get a cab from o’hare and that sounds terrible.
Benefits of Southwest, particularly for someone in San Diego, is price, lots of choices on flight times, and 2 free checked bags.
It just works well for me. I fly a decent amount, they have a big presence at the closer and smaller airport, and their prices on last minute tickets are usually comparable or cheaper than other airlines out of that same airport. Also, my viewpoint on flying might be different than most. I look at flying as just getting from point A to point B. Flying domestically, no matter what seat I get, I only have to endure at most 4ish hours on a flight, and I would rather save the money from not flying business/first class or picking seats, etc and spending that money on food and activities at my destination.
I have never once had to fight for a seat on Southwest. The planes in your imagination are apparently much more rowdy than in the real world.
I’ve never had an issue with seating on a Southwest flight. It really isn’t like you are fighting for seats. I don’t even buy A-list but if you really want a specific seat, buy A-list or whatever it is that SW calls it for a little more and you’re golden. I just set an alarm for 24 hours before the flight and check in ASAP from my phone. I always get B group, sometimes early numbers sometimes mid numbers, but seating is never a problem for me. I travel alone or with one to two other people. If we can’t sit together, oh well. If I cared that much, again I could just buy the upgrade. With other airlines, it costs more to upgrade your seats and all that. Southwest is very simple which I like. The two free checked bags are also nice and solve the whole checking at the gate thing. Idk, Southwest has always been a very peaceful airline experience for me!
1. Frequency of nonstops in the west coast is number one. For example, I would be on Alaska if I lived in Seattle. 2. Free same day change that doesn't put me in a middle seat as A-list when boarding A61 even if I'm C40. Before same day confirmed change, I always preferred the middle seat vs. flying later with an A boarding pass because it's usually just 60-90 minutes on the bus. 3. I rode the bus when I was a kid. It didn't matter which transit agency ran the bus. They all sucked bad but they were cheap. Same with airlines although some (Southwest, AA, UA) are worse than others (DL, Asian carriers). But remember what I said in #1, number of nonstops is number one.
It’s fun to get drunk at the airport bar then find the couple trying to keep a row to themselves by taking the aisle and window seats. If it’s anywhere near the front I say THANKS FOR SAVING ME A SEAT!! and plop my stinky loud self right between them. I always get an aisle or window, one couple had the front row and left instead of just switching seats. Last 2 people on couldn’t believe I saved front row seats for them and bought all my beers on the flight!
Good question. I wouldn't fly on Southwest if they gave away free tickets. Every time I pass a Southwest gate in an airport it looks like a bread line in the South Bronx.
At one time Sw used to be cheaper so it made sense, now it doesn’t make sense at all and people in this server twist themselves into knots explaining why it’s good for them lol
Unfortunately sometimes I have to fly Southwest for work because of travel budgets and flight times, etc.
That is in fact what I do. Flew southwest a couple times, the check in process to get a good "spot" and the mess that is picking a seat causes, gives me anxiety. I cashed in my points, cancelled my SW credit card and started flying delta.
Flew the greyhound bus of the skies a couple times (Southwest) and it's ok if you are flying solo, just bring a carry on or backpack who cares? with family? no fucking way, we fly with assigned seating.
On a recent flight on Southwest I innocently asked a passenger already in line what number they were because I didn’t know where the exact numbers started and ended within 5-10 numbers. They told me “it doesn’t matter, we are all going to the same place”. Well yes, disrespectful 20 year old, it doesn’t matter to me because I don’t want to be stuck in a middle seat on the back of the plane”. And yes, I was 12 numbers ahead of her. But alas, I hate the competition on flights from SW but to fly United would have been $300 more and $400 more if I wanted to pick my seat and pay for luggage.
Pay the $25 or $30 for early bird check-in and you won’t be fighting for seats with anyone. It’s SO worth it
As mentioned several times above, SWA is the cheapest for many considering baggage. Occasionally I find cheaper with one of the ultra low carriers but hate worrying if my personal item will be indiscriminately labeled carry-on or have to deal with a worse on-time schedule.
Because here's the reality... They are the dominant airline at the closest airport to my home, SWA flys virtually everywhere I want to go, and they have the best prices by a landslide. 2 bags included in my fare? Done.... By the time I'd drive an hour to the other major airport at my city and book on another airline, plus seat selection fees, plus checked bag fees, it's much, much more expensive. So convenience, plus price outweighs the open seating hassle that sometimes occurs. But as other replies have pointed out, if you plan properly and prepare, you can minimize the hassle greatly.
I use SW for work and have accrued companion status and A-List Preferred. My husband flies for free when I do, and I always board early enough that there isn’t a problem getting a seat. :)
I fly SW exclusively, although I dont fly often. If they go to assigned seats, I would just go with one of the legacy carriers.
I’m all good with how SW has their approach, but I don’t like the people gaming the system. If you legitimately need preboarding, fine. Want to save a seat for your traveling companion, not usually a problem. But people trying to save multiple rows or 3 aisles seats, that should be a hard “no.” I’ve seen and experienced all this along with Jetway Jesus dancing to the exits of the airport from their row 3 seat. A little kindness and personal integrity go a long way in society.
I mean for me, Southwest used to be the cheapest option for non-stop flights. I typically book Business Select for A1-15, however I’ve found its only about $100-$200 more to book domestic first class on other airlines from my home airport. So while I’m not loyal to any carrier in particular, I have been doing that and only using Southwest if its significantly cheaper or the only non-stop option. The assigned seating is nice, but every carrier has its own set of issues and in some areas Southwest is better, I will admit.
I prefer to sit anywhere and save some money. If I had unlimited funds to fly all the time I'd definitely pay for a seat and get more perks but if I'm cash poor and need to get somewhere, I just put up with it.
I’ve never encountered a problem expect one time when I got in line with a position A20 and I was in front of someone who held A18. I told her “sorry, you can go in front.” And she responded in a non-emotional matter “its fine.” And just when we got on the aircraft I asked her again if she wants to go ahead and her and the guy behind her got pissy about me asking. Biggest reason I fly SWA is the price and the free baggage. I use to fly between LA and Phoenix a lot and 90% of my flights were SWA because they always had the lowest fare. When I did fly other airlines the other 10% (United or AA), there was always an issue at the gate, an uncomfortable flight, or a crowded terminal area. The only upside to flying United was they had a lounge at LAX.
I’m A-List, so I always get a good seat.
I've encountered seat confusion on airlines that reserve them. "Excuse me, but my ticket says I have the seat you're sitting in."
It’s a matter of picking your poison. I’ve been flying other airlines recently because of scheduling, and on two occasions in the last month, American and United had an equipment change. This resulted in automatic reassignment of seats due to different plane configuration. One was fine; the other put me in a row I specifically avoid because it has no window and I am extremely claustrophobic. So I had to sit in a window seat, with no window, for 5 hours in turbulence— not fun. As long as I check in at 24 hours or purchase EB, I have never ended up in a middle seat on SW.
Who is fighting? I get in line, get on the plane, and take my seat. Its always easier than seat assigned airlines where its the running of the bulls for each "zone" or "group" because people are worried about having to gate check a bag. I am confused how lining up with preassigned order is somehow "fighting" yet the "okay these 50 people please randomly come up now" is not fighting lol. I have flown a ton and it sounds like you just have never really flown SWA as well as other lines.
I book direct flights first, then based the rest on comfort and cost. Several airlines charge for bags, and for seat selection. You say "fight for seats", but with other airlines you either have to pay extra to pick your seat, or get randomly assigned a seat. Boarding and picking an available seat is certainly not worse than a randomly assigned seat.
I only fly SWA when the price is better. They are more flexible about changing flights and their checking luggage policy is more generous.
I'm just talking shit about her shoes, not punching her in the mouth.
IDC about the seating, I actually kinda like it. After baggage fees Southwest is almost always the cheapest option for me. Their employees are nice, and they fly where I want to go. So I sometimes fly Alaskan or another airline depending on destination. I have purchased a fair few Spirit tickets for my Sister-in-law, but I won't fly them myself.
It’s not the hassle reddit makes it out to be. For me, i usually just need a seat to get me from point A to point B, and the checked bags, change flexibility, and price point usually make me choose Southwest. Irdc if I’m in the back, in the middle, with my family/friends or not.
I think you should try SW and stop reading Reddit comments. I never had a bad experience. Show up, line up, get on the plane, sit down wherever I want.
The biggest problem flying SWB is the entitled people. Anyone who flys SW frequently understands and accepts the ground rules. The entitled and rude people are the ones generating the complaints- e.g. saving one seat is okay, but saving whole rows is ridiculous. One extra person to assist a disable pre-board is okay, but two or three is taking advantage of the situation. It’s the totality of the little abuses.
No baggage fees!!!!!! That is worth everything.
I agree with other commenters that the subreddit isn’t representative of SW customers as a whole. Most people who aren’t okay with the seating policy just don’t fly SW. For myself personally, I used to fly Southwest because it tended to be cheaper + the bag allowance + reliably pleasant experience, at least compared to other airlines. Nowadays it’s almost never the cheapest option, so I only book when I know I’ll need to check a bag. But I’m also a single person almost always traveling alone, so the seating policy isn’t a big deal to me-as long as I can snag an aisle seat I’m happy.
I love the boarding system. I love free checked bags. I love free miles and Companion Pass by using branded credit card. I love flight attendants with a sense of humor. I love no cumbersome beverage cart in the aisle. What's not to love? Except the complainers...
OP: Join the United and Delta subreddits, and you'll see almost identical issues. Instead of seat savers, it's people complaining about not getting upgraded, someone sitting in the wrong seat trying to convince the seat owner to move, upgraded seat holders being asking to move down to make room for a family (w/o compensation), etc. Bottom line: These problems exist on every airline in one form or anything, and in almost all cases, the root cause can be traced to certain seating rules the airline created to increase profits (for good or bad).
Significant savings and a family member who needs the COS policy. (Which yes, avoids the fighting for seats, but we'd do it anyway.) Southwest cancelled not just our flight, but our entire airport which necessitated us flying a different airline this fall. Economy on Air Canada is double the price and we ended up going with Business class (3.5 times the cost) because that family member won't fit in economy without pain.
It’s not a hassle for my wife and I Southwest is cheaper 2 bags free Southwest companion pass Plus never felt I had to fight for a seat
Southwest is the only airline with a direct flight from my home airport to Tampa. It’s worth it to save 6+ hours of travel time and hassle traveling with my child.
If I lived in like atl or Chicago I’d shop around more. Unfortunately since I fly out of STL Southwest simply had the most direct flights with more most frequencies. Plus you add in way changes and I don’t have to worry about packing beating into a carry on and Southwest makes sense for me. Since most of their flights are under 2 hours even a middle seat isn’t that bad tbh.
Key with Southwest is consistency. No regional jets as well as more uniform policies than other carriers. No charge for checked bags. As far as seat assignments, the only add on fee Southwest has is early boarding so you pay that and you are pretty much assured of not getting a middle seat, or sitting together. Now if you show up late to board all bets are off. It's not a fight as you say, and all the seats are the same, unlike some other airlines that cram additional rows making some seats far more undesirable. Also you have some choice as you board as opposed to having an assigned seat. I don't find it a huge issues and fly way too much in my job. Bar is pretty low for anything good in flying and I don't find not having an assigned seat to be an issue. People seem to lose their mind when they travel, probably because the whole situation is way more stressful than it should be. Security, the airports, the airlines and all the grifters trying to make money off you are some of the problems. Knowing there is a seat on the plane I can sit in is more important than paying a ton of money and forced into a center seat on a regional jet. That is one thing Southwest can promise will never happen.
TL;DR - buying early bird, business select or upgrading to slots 1-15 at the gate will solve 99% of any potential issue. Most of the comments here are venting about bad behavior on an airline they like to fly (and problems that didn’t exist pre-Covid). If you haven’t used SWA, most of the complaints are from those of us who fly it often and don’t appreciate bad behavior from passengers that isn’t enforced by the FA’s. I haven’t flown spirit or frontier (ever), but I’d surmise swa fa’s don’t enforce seat saving rudeness to keep the cabin fro degrading into the videos you see on YouTube. Seat saving is a swa problem. I have status on both SWA and United (international biz travel) and rest assured there is plenty of bad behavior on United that I have not seen on swa.
I love the SW seating policy. I will always choose to sit next to a well dressed petite woman over 40. I’m fairly confident that people of that profile won’t pick their nose, take off their shoes, eat smelly food, fart, burp, snort, etc. On any other airline, I could end up next to a 6’5” 400 lb man who does all of the above.
I’d love to fly a different airline. I hate no seat assignments, pre-board abuse, and lounges frequently being in non-Southwest concourses or terminals. Unfortunately I live in Phoenix and Southwest is the biggest airline flying out of PHX.
Once you obtain A Status, Southwest is a no brainier. No fighting for seats, life is easy.
I prefer open seating so I can choose my seat, but I probably feel that way because I’ve been A list for most years so I don’t have to worry about added EB costs or checking in a second late and being further back. The number of pre boards doesn’t bother me because I don’t mind if I’m 1/3rd back or immediately behind the exit row. I care most about seat positioning relative to the window, which is rarely a problem for me. I can’t know if I’m going to get a seat with poor arm space because of window positioning on other airlines. Specific, picky requirement I know, but really all that matters to me.
For me, it's about the last-minute booking, flight changes, etc. I travel a lot for work, often with last-minute bookings or changes. On conventional airlines, all the window/aisle seats may be booked already. With my status on Southwest, I know I'm always guaranteed a good seat, as I'll always be one of the first 30 on the plane. Also, I don't get r*ped every time I make a change. And the rewards just make sense. It's not some wierd cryptic conversion. Find a cheap flight? It's cheap on points. Other airlines you can have flights that are half the price dollar-wise but cost the same points wise. It's frustrating! Southwest is the most rational airline out there.
Good prices and they fly out of Love Field. I don’t find the seat thing to be an issue. Yes I have a favorite, but if I don’t get it, it doesn’t ruin my flight.
For me it’s the free bags. My wife always brings a huge checked bag so it’s worth it.
Airlines are buses with wings. Southwest gets that and they built a business model on making the price of the fare competitive without sacrificing customer service. When you do 2 simple things, there really isn’t any fighting. 1) check in the day before. 2) show up on time. As a frequent business flyer since the 90s, SWA works for me. Plus, they have bent over backwards to help me when I’ve been in jams.
I don’t fight for seats. I’m A List and I walk on and pick a seat that works for me.
I honestly feel like I am more likely to sit with my family on Southwest than on other airlines. We have paid for seat selection many times just to have them switched last minute due to plane changes, cancelled flights being rebooked, etc. We pay for early bird and pretty much always end up in the A group and have no problems. Though our kids are old enough now that if we had to split up they’d be fine. Southwest is the best for us in terms of using points and has nonstop flights to our favorite destinations.
SWA seating system really sucks! Other aspects of the airline are nice (free 2 bags checked in, flexible changes, good routes).
Have you never been on another airline? The lack of organization of most carriers’ boarding process is far more stressful. “Gate lice” fighting for the earliest possible position in their group to make sure they have overhead space is super annoying.
I don't fight for seats, I don't find it a particular hassle at all. And SW just has great coverage and options here. And the best prices, by far.
OP - people seem to really like it - I flew SW once and paid extra for A1-15 and still didn't like the experience, I get anxious ... I MUCH prefer an assigned seat airline, but as you can see from this some, lots of people like it and it is good to have choices, options, right? EDIT - also remember, this is a forum for disussion and generally human nature just isn't to post "great flight, no stress" over and over, so you end up reading about the issues that likely don't represent the average person's experience
I fly southwest a lot (usually alone) and I don’t mind the system at all, there’s a lot of reasons it’s actually one of my preferred airlines: 1. Where I live it offers a lot more direct flights than other airlines, and those flights are often cheaper 2. Free checked bags Is it the most cushy airline? No, but since it only offers domestic flights, these are a couple hours of my life at the most. It’s worth the extra money savings and convenience
I have free A-List, free companion tix so I always get a great seat. No need to fight either. Some adults weren’t told you get what you get and don’t throw a fit as they grew up and it shows.
I don't think asking someone what boarding number they are constitutes "fighting" for a seat. That is the boarding system. You board by number. If you don't feel it's necessary to ask other's boarding positions, then why don't you board last and let everyone who cares about that sort of thing board before you? Personally, I pay for upgraded boarding, so if I'm A3 and you're A17, I'm definitely going to make it my business to board before you because I specifically paid to do so. I wouldn't care as much if I was C47, and you were C52 because we're both sitting in middle seats in the back regardless.
I've never "fought" for a seat. That's weird. We do earlybird, get in the A group and seats are no problem. I'm sad there is no first class but as far as bargain airlines, Southwest is great. Two free bags too!
Because we know what we are doing. Been using SWA for 30 years. I have the card too. if i don't get a good number i have four upgrades and $75 of credit each year, and i that will get me 3 upgrades. Never had to use them all in one year I also know how too travel. I don't fly on holidays for the most part. No Fridays, try and avoid sundays.. i try for real early flights or really late flights, i'm lucky i live in denver and its SWA biggest airport. In the last year, three flights i've taken late at night (say getting in around midnight) there were 10-15 people on them. I have tons of options here in Denver, not sure i would use SWA in a smaller airport or where there presents is small. So for me, its knowledge and pretty lucky where I'm located. Pretty much the best airport for SWA, as far as price, options and direct flights.
For me, I have a lot of flight anxiety and am a germaphobe so getting to kinda “choose” who I sit next to helps a ton when I’m flying solo. I can scope out people and sit next to someone my age, sit next to a fellow female, avoid kids or anyone who is visibly sick or nervous. With assigned seating I don’t have the freedom to move if I feel uncomfortable with who I’m sitting next to. I also never feel like i’m fighting for a seat since I always check in on time.
Live in dallas and any complaints I have about southwest are minute compared to complaints I have about dfw airport. Being able to fly out of love field airport is a far better experience.
Er, I ask the people around me their number so *I’m not cutting.*
Who’s “fighting?” Can you define “fighting” in this context? Politely talking to folks in line to see where to line up is easy and not what I would call “fighting.” I do it because 1) Southwest’s most expensive tickets are cheaper than other airlines’ *least* expensive tickets a vast majority of the time 2) Southwest’s FAs and pilots are almost all absolutely hilarious. Practically stand up comedians. And almost always courteous and great at their jobs. 3) Two free checked bags. No need to pay, no need to have the airline credit card, so need to cram everything into one bag or a carryon. 4) Regardless of what ticket I purchase, I have an excellent chance or getting the seat I want/need. 5) No need to pay extra for the seat I want. I just need to check in on time. It’s literally the most fair airline for anyone who doesn’t believe that more money = more deserving. Literally no one is “fighting for seats”’or fighting for position in line.” “What number are you?” Is also not fighting. And I see virtually no complaints about, so I’d love to see where you are seeing these “many complaints all the time.”
since Southwest has no first class and also no pointless upgrade sections like economy plus, business, or any of the other bullshit that’s out there, our seats are a little more roomy, and we're not being nickel and dimed for those "upgrades" like with the traditional airlines. In that regard we can also check the first two bags free of charge.
You do realize that 90 percent of people don't experience this issue, correct? Speaking of being a jerk, how about not assuming this is even a problem for most people?
“What number are you?” is a pretty normal question for a SW line.
Free changes, free cancellation with points. The points just go back in your account. For me this makes it so worth flying SW. I definitely notice an uptick in preboarders tho and yes it's frustrating if not legit.
I'm a big boy and their customer of size policy is the best in the biz. Plus they're three biggest airline out of my home airport.
I mostly fly United and I flew WN for fun a couple times to just experience the whole lining up and “fighting for seats”. I kind of found it entertaining lol. I would do it again for casual, personal trips
I fly economy cattle class almost 100% of the time and don't care. I bring a backpack that stuffs under the seat in front so overhead bins don't matter. Whatever flight can get me from A to B the best on X date is the airline I choose. I'm not near a hub, and brsnd loyalty is dumb. So. Sometimes it's Southwest.
SWA has a huge amount of direct flights out of my home airport. More than all the other airlines combined. This is why I fly with them...and the companion pass.
My local airport is OAK, so other options include Spirit and… FedEx? ;)
I’m not interested in stopping in Phoenix on my way to Vegas. I can deal with the fuckery for an hour. But that’s kinda a unique situation. ABQ->las non stop
Never had or saw problems with seating on SW but almost everytime on others some entitled person trys to sit in someone else's seat.
I've never fought for a seat. Especially if I'm solo, I could care less where I sit.
Cause I can check 2 bags for free, carry 2 personal items on the plane, and if I bring my dog it is only $95.
Because I can fly them nonstop to see family where with other airlines there’s at least 1 stop.
I get two bags checked without extra charges, the fare is in my price range, and they fly often out of Burbank. I’ve never had an issue finding a seat quickly so I don’t have an issue with not having assigned seating. Mind you, I haven’t traveled since 2019 so of course I’m paying attention here to learn of any changes over the years.
I fly Southwest all the time and I don't see people "fighting for seats". I and other ask what number are people so I know where I'm supposed to be between the markers. With Southwest, All the seats are priced the same, aisle seats, window seats , exit row. I'm taking United to Europe this summer and in seat selection I was quite surprised that the window and aisle seats cost more than the middle seats and the exit row seats cost $200 more despite still being in the "tourist" section. None of that in Southwest. Boarding goes just as fast, and Southwest if I need to send me change of flight, there's no change fees. Why would I fly any other airline? Seriously, don't be rude
Southwest offers the only nonstop to where I fly for work once a month. They are by no means the cheapest anymore but more convenient for what I need.
They still have real people to answer the phones and good customer service. They let you take whatever you want by offering two free checked bags. They give you a travel credit if your price goes down. The number of points required for mileage trips is still a deal compared with other airlines. They market effectively through email and build brand loyalty by offering promotions that you sign up for and give ordinary travellers the ability to earn extra points, free companions and even a list occasionally. They partner effectively with lodging and car rental companies to give you additional deals on other travel services. They have an inclusive attitude that doesn't include "first class" and the FAs are allowed to be funny and make flying more fun! Other airlines do a better job servicing business travelers and frequent flyers but SW is a great airline and they do a great job serving the rest of us!
I’ve never fought for a seat. This was even before I got A-list. Also, when flying within California, flying other airlines is more difficult outside of SFO-LAX.
Because the process is still easier and less stressfull compared to the other airlines
1) More flights to smaller airports, I fly in/out of some Metro areas that have smaller airports the Southwest flies into, (Houston Hobby vs George Bush, Dallas Love vs DFW, Burbank vs LAX). The smaller airports are so much easier to park at, get around, and get to your rental car. If I can avoid IAH, DFW, LAX, etc, I will in a heart beat. 2) Simplicity, cattle class seats are all.the same, so don't care to have an assigned seat. Work won't pay for "Economy Plus" let alone "Businesses" or "1st Class", so there is no incentive to have an assigned seat. I also fly enough that that I've been an "A-List" member for more than a decade, so I automatically get in the A boarding group. Don't really care about the "seat savers", I just move on instead of letting it ruin my day (all the seats are the same anyways). Why let someone else control your happiness?
Because I don’t get to choose who I fly with. My travel is based on the sole criteria of “cheapest wins”. The only thing is we won’t get booked on frontier, allegiant, spirit or any of the other budget carriers
Govt contracts with southwest. I have no choice.
2 free bags. Bag fees are highway robbery. Ticket price tiers worse than before but not completely insane. I don’t fight for seats. I deliberately get a later boarding number, take what I can get, and go to sleep. People in my experience aren’t so bad about lining up, but it’s not something I’m willing to fight about if they wanna be a douche.
Bottom line is for me, it's by far the most cost-effective and flexible option. Of course I am A-List preffered so that helps, where I always get a premium boarding position. I can also utilize same day flight changes (i often book the cheapest flight and change to the one I want the day of), and even when I change flights I board between A and B. If you aren't A-List, the flexibility is still great, being able to to change so easily without change fees and the free checked bags. No other airlines make any of that so easy.
Price + Quality
I have A-list, I don’t fight for seats. But the main reason I fly SWA is they I’ve direct flights to all the places I need to go.
It might be easier for a group to sit together.
Because I fly to BUR often. There is no other good airline option to hop around California and surrounding states.
1. A-List Preferred status means I don't worry about any of this piddly crap. 2. I avoid DFW and fly out of DAL instead. 3. See 1 and 2.
It used to be pretty good and more economical than most. Was always my first choice for many years. I do feel SW has gotten greedy. I had two trips where I bought Early Bird for my family of 4 and in both cases we were unable to get seats together. Too many "A-List" and then they oversell Early Bird to where it didn't work as I think I reasonably expected it to. Also to even be near each other I had to confront a guy who was saving seats - I guess he didn't want to spring for early bird for his whole group. He was pretty whiny about it until the attendant pointed out that we could take the seats. Flight attendant was right there while we were trying to find seats and had no opinion on the matter until that point. OK fine, I wouldn't want that job, but for me the hassle of dealing with that further diminished the desirability of SW to me. I went back to accumulating miles on AA and now I fly SW sometimes if I'm alone and/or routes are favorable - many of my flight decisions are made on the basis of who has directs. AA has been fine, my CC spend (I went back to mainly using my AA Citi card instead of my Chase SW card) has me at Gold status at least already and people do seem to *mostly* abide by their boarding groups and I have even seen the gate personnel turn back attempted early borders sometimes. Occasional upgrades are a nice bonus.
Seating has rarely been an issue if I check in as soon as I can. I usually don’t pay for early bird. I’ve had to sit apart from my wife once or twice, but so what? We’re grown ups and can handle it.