➤  Checking in early for Southwest flights depends on your flight date, as the airline is transitioning to an assigned seating model in early 2026. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

➤  For Flights Departing On or After January 27, 2026

➤  Assigned Seating: Southwest is moving away from its open seating system. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈  Most passengers will now select their seats during the booking process. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

➤  EarlyBird Discontinued: The EarlyBird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding options are no longer available for flights departing after January 26, 2026. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

➤  New Priority Boarding: In place of the old system, you can purchase "Priority Boarding" starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure to be among the first to board. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

➤  Basic Fare Assignments: Passengers who purchase a Basic fare will have their seats assigned at check-in or at the gate. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

🎯  Standard Check-In   →  Procedures (Ongoing)

🎯  Regardless of the seating model,   →  the following check-in rules apply:

➤  Check-In Window: Online and mobile check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

➤  Deadlines: You must complete check-in at least 60 minutes before scheduled departure for most domestic and international flights. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

➤  10-Minute Rule: You must be fully checked in and present at the boarding gate no later than 10 minutes before your flight's scheduled departure to avoid losing your seat. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈

➤  Boarding Pass Retrieval: Even if you have status or a fare that includes automatic seat assignment, you must still check in via the Southwest website or app within the 24-hour window to retrieve your boarding pass. ☎+1↭◺◖855◗◹↭◺298◹↭◺5019◹✈