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Southwest Airlines Seat Selection Guide (2026)

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Quick Answer

Southwest Airlines does not offer free seat selection. 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.

Seat Fees by Category

Seat TypeFee
StandardNo assigned seats — open seating
PreferredN/A — choose any available seat when boarding
Extra LegroomExit rows available on first-come basis during boarding
Exit RowFree — first-come during boarding

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.

Seat Map Availability

No seat map — open seating policy.

How to Select Your Seat

  1. 1Check in exactly 24 hours before departure for best boarding position
  2. 2Purchase EarlyBird Check-In ($15-$25) for automatic early check-in
  3. 3Purchase Upgraded Boarding ($30-$50) at the gate for A1-A15 position
  4. 4Business Select fare includes A1-A15 boarding position

Expert Tips for the Best Seat

💡 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.

More Southwest Airlines Guides

Baggage Policy
Fees, sizes & limits
Online Check-In
Step-by-step guide
Cancellation Policy
Fees & refunds
Carry-On Rules
Size limits & weight
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