Discover Southwest Airlines’ New Unusual Boarding Process: Find Out Who Boards First

Southwest Airlines has announced significant changes to its boarding process. From January 27, 2026, passengers will experience a new system aimed at enhancing efficiency. The airline will shift from its traditional open seating to assigned seating, incorporating an innovative boarding method.

Southwest Airlines’ Unusual Boarding Process

Southwest’s new boarding strategy deviates from conventional practices. Instead of the usual boarding positions, passengers will receive a boarding group on their pass, numbered from 1 to 8, unless they opt for priority boarding.

Discover Who Boards First

After passengers with priority status have boarded, Southwest will implement the WILMA method. This involves boarding passengers with window seats first, followed by those with middle and aisle seats, starting from the back of the aircraft.

Priority and Perks

Travelers with specific perks, such as frequent-flier status, seat type, or applicable credit cards, will automatically receive earlier boarding groups, specifically groups 1 or 2, regardless of their seat location. This could affect passengers seated at the front who might face challenges with overhead bin space.

Dynamic Pricing for Priority Boarding

Southwest offers a last-minute Priority Boarding option with dynamic pricing, allowing travelers willing to pay for an upgraded boarding position. Prices for this option vary and recently cost $93 for a Phoenix-Dallas flight.

Boarding groups and seat assignments are clearly marked on boarding passes to aid passenger understanding. This new system, inspired by United Airlines’ similar strategy, aims to streamline the boarding process. Lisa Hingson, Southwest’s managing director of innovation, emphasized the airline’s commitment to studying and refining this method to ensure efficiency.