This Southwest Airlines Update Could Make Boarding HARDER

We’ll be honest. While we LOVE vacationing, we don’t always love what it takes to get there.

Flying can be a drag, it’s true!

Traveling can truly be a pain, especially flying. Like, you have to go through the whole process of seeking out seats way before your trip, then getting to the airport, then checking in and doing the whole security thing, and THEN you finally get to board the plane and eventually get to where you’re goin’. Southwest Airlines previously made it easier for folks to get ahead in the process by giving them the opportunity to pay an extra fee to have a better chance at finding good seats. Well, Southwest is now changing that process.

Southwest’s EarlyBird perk is changing! According to the Associated Press (AP), Southwest is changing it’s boarding system to limit the opportunity to pay the extra fee to jump ahead and snag a better seat. Southwest allows guests to choose their seat at boarding, so EarlyBird buyers are able to literally jump ahead in a physical line to choose the best seats.

Southwest

AP reports that Southwest said they would be “limiting the number of spots available for purchase on certain flights, routes, or days, as we work on product enhancements.” So, EarlyBird isn’t available for all hoping to purchase the service.

Southwest

This is reportedly after Southwest executives boasted that EarlyBird fees alone raised more than $100 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2023, which made up about 1.4% of Southwest’s total revenue.

Southwest’s 50th Anniversary Plane during Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

Passengers can purchase EarlyBird starting at $15, depending on demand for the service. AP suggests that limiting the number of available EarlyBird slots might push passengers to attempt to purchase the highest-priced Southwest fare, “Business Select”, which allows travelers a top-15 spot in line.

Southwest Plane

If you fly Southwest frequently and typically take advantage of EarlyBird, it’s important that you take note of this so that you aren’t unprepared. We’ll continue to keep you updated with more Disney and travel news, so make sure to follow along for more.