How much does Southwest Airlines charge for seat selection?

Standard: No assigned seats — open seating. Preferred: N/A — choose any available seat when boarding. Extra Legroom: Exit rows available on first-come basis during boarding.

What happens if I don't select a seat on Southwest Airlines?

You'll be randomly assigned a seat at check-in.

Southwest Airlines Seat Selection (2026) — Fees, Free Options & How to Choose

Southwest does not assign seats. Boarding is open seating based on check-in order (A, B, C groups). Check in early for best seat choice.

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Seat Selection Fees

Seat Type	Fee
Standard	No assigned seats — open seating
Preferred	N/A — choose any available seat when boarding
Extra Legroom	Exit rows available on first-come basis during boarding
Exit Row	Free — first-come during boarding

Free Seat Selection

No — Southwest does not assign seats. Boarding is open seating based on check-in order (A, B, C groups). Check in early for best seat choice.

When Can You Select a Seat?

No advance selection. Board in order of check-in time. EarlyBird Check-In ($15-$25) auto-checks you in before others.

How to Select Your Seat

Check in exactly 24 hours before departure for best boarding position
Purchase EarlyBird Check-In ($15-$25) for automatic early check-in
Purchase Upgraded Boarding ($30-$50) at the gate for A1-A15 position
Business Select fare includes A1-A15 boarding position

Tips for the Best Seats

Set an alarm for exactly 24 hours before departure and check in immediately
EarlyBird Check-In is worth it for popular routes — guarantees A or early B group
Families with children 6 and under board between A and B groups
If you get a C boarding position, aisle seats near the back are usually available

Frequently Asked Questions

Is seat selection free on Southwest Airlines?: Southwest does not assign seats. Boarding is open seating based on check-in order (A, B, C groups). Check in early for best seat choice.
How much does Southwest Airlines charge for seat selection?: Standard: No assigned seats — open seating. Preferred: N/A — choose any available seat when boarding. Extra Legroom: Exit rows available on first-come basis during boarding.
When can I select a seat on Southwest Airlines?: No advance selection. Board in order of check-in time. EarlyBird Check-In ($15-$25) auto-checks you in before others.
What happens if I don't select a seat on Southwest Airlines?: You'll be randomly assigned a seat at check-in.