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Solutions
@mpenkala11 wrote:
It is very frustrating to get to the Southwest kiosk and the app is not logged in. I have to re-log in every time. I have a Samsung Galaxy 10. This has been happening for awhile but I am finally trying to fix it. Can anybody help with this?
Hello!
This forum is customer-to-customer. As a frequent SW flyer who uses the App regularly, I have not been able to reproduce this symptom of having to log in every time I launch the App (tried launching the App via different Wi-Fi and 5G network connections and I was good to go; not asked to provide my log in credentials even when I look up my flights). However, there have been a few times where the app randomly asks me to log back in whenever I launch it, but not every time. Assuming this happens following an App update.
Since you have a Samsung phone, assuming you have an Android; I would first confirm your Android System is current. Also try clearing the cache of the App through the Android App settings to see if that rectifies this issue. If you still have problems after this, I would check your security settings on your phone to ensure the SW app is able to save data such as your login credentials locally to the phone. After that, I would try a complete uninstall/fresh re-install. After that, if you're still having to log in every time when you launch the App, it's possible there may be a bug which should be reported directly to Southwest:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
You can also try utilizing the SW mobile website instead of the App as you can retrieve your flight information from there too so you can use the kiosks.
Hope this helps!
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02-06-2024
11:04 AM
02-06-2024
11:04 AM
@John_Ocampos wrote:
I was wondering if there are any tips or advice on how to easily remember these codes or if there's a particular resource, like an app or a webpage, that keeps an updated list that we can refer to quickly.
Hello!
When it comes to memorizing anything, I almost always need to practice by physically writing the required memory items down with a pen and paper (not electronically) and repeatedly giving myself "tests" until they are memorized 100%. I would also split the memorization process into groups of smaller lists if the "big" list appears overwhelming.
As a free resource for airport codes, I would utilize Wikipedia's "List of Southwest Airlines destinations" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Southwest_Airlines_destinations
Save and Print the "Current destinations" section of this webpage page, and do a practice "pre-test". In the printout, I would first mark up the airports that you already know their codes plus the more common ones (e.g. LAX, SFO). Skip the airports that you don't know.
After that, count those up and "grade" the "pre-test". For those you missed or omitted, use the linked airports from the same Wikipedia page to look up the current codes for the ones you need to memorize and highlight those. Take a few moments and look over the completed worksheet.
At that point, repeat this "test" process but split up the list by focusing first on memorizing your favorite or nearby origin and destinations airports. Print out another copy of the "Current Destinations", but highlight your favorites, and test yourself again by writing in their codes specifically.
E.g. For me, they are:
Origins: San Diego - SAN Ontario, CA - ONT Santa Ana/Orange County - SNA Long Beach - LGB
Destinations: Las Vegas - LAS Sacramento - SMF San Jose, CA - SJC Oakland - OAK Phoenix - PHX
Repeat this process until you have your favorites memorized 100%. After you memorize your favorite origins/destination airport codes, then go for a different small region and repeat the process (e.g. SW's Mexico destinations):
Cancun - CUN Cozumel - CZM Puerto Vallarta - PVR Cabo - SJD
Repeat this process for each of these small groups until you feel comfortable completing the entire table by memory. At that point, give yourself a "final exam" and complete the entire list by memory. If you get a "bad" score, revisit the small groups and do another practice run. Keep repeating this "final exam" until you achieve 100%. At that point, you should have these codes committed to memory.
All the best!
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@nylahc99 wrote:
Hi! My name is Nylah and I wanted to find out if there’s a way to know/be notified when Southwest opens applications for flight attendant positions? Thanks in advance! 🙂
Hello!
I echo @dfwskier and visit the SW Careers website. From there, I would sign up for the Talent Community if you haven't done so yet so that you can be notified of openings:
https://careers.southwestair.com/jointalentcommunity
All the best!
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@LKMCNEALY wrote:
Please.... Bring Southwest Airlines to Knoxville, Tennessee (TYS). The sooner the better! It is tough to have to drive to Nashville from 1 hour North of Knoxville to fly on Southwest.... and then have to drive another 4 hours back home on return. Your airline would do AWESOME in this area. ✈️ ✔️ ‼️
Hello!
Thanks for sharing your suggestion. Since this forum is customer-to-customer and may not reach airline staff, would you forward it directly to Southwest Customer Service so that it can be processed.
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
Thanks!
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@jerryf wrote:
Do A-List Preferreds get a better boarding position than regular A-List? (Assuming tickets are purchased at the same time, etc.).
Hello!
There's varying opinion on this; my take is "Yes".
An EBCI question was asked a while back on SW's Twitter/X after the passenger reportedly got a B34 spot with EBCI. Here's SW's official response that documents the Priority Boarding order and I consider this reply as fact:
Priority boarding positions are assigned in this order: Business Select, A-List Preferred, A-List, Anytime fares, EarlyBird. EarlyBird boarding positions can vary, and you are not guaranteed to get an "A" group boarding assignment.
https://southwest.com/help/booking/earlybird-checkin
-Larissa
https://twitter.com/SouthwestAir/status/1594125108129722370?s=20
Also, persons on an ALP's or A-List's reservation also receive sequential boarding positions too. As mentioned before on this board, I had flight that was booked well in advance from SAN-SJC. I have A-List and when the 36-hour mark came around, I never even made into the A group; thus, I assumed this flight was full of ALP's or people who were booked under an ALP's reservation. As you may know, ALP's and A-List have the "A61" benefit and can board after the A-Group.
Based on this and my recent flight experiences, I believe ALP's and persons on their reservations are positioned ahead of A-Lists provided they book at least 36 hours in advance.
Hope this helps.
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@SoCalFlyer97 wrote:
I assume this self-serve feature will remain in place until I check into the flight per the message header (as A-List which comes with Priority Boarding, I'm assuming that will be the 36-hour mark for me). I will confirm all this as I get closer to my departure date and will let you know when the feature times out to make the change online; after that point, a Southwest CSA should still be able to accommodate you.
@bec102896 is correct.
As I have a flight tomorrow that has this feature, I was able to confirm that at both the T36 mark (Automatic A-List Priority Boarding Check-In) and at T24 (Agree to the terms and get boarding Pass), this feature does not expire or "go away" at either of these points; thus this is available from the time the change takes place until 10-minutes prior to departure.
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02-01-2024
11:29 AM
Hello-
Looking at your screenshots, it appears your local SAVENOW promo is in fact being applied on the "Select Flights" page, even if you didn't see the green "Score!" banner appear. Southwest is also usually very good at "keeping" promo codes locked in if you click away from the promo pages or book the flight via the standard search.
Your local promo appears to apply to either WGA or WGA+ fares with the discounted fare for qualifying flights appearing in bold-green with the regular fare showing and stricken directly above it regardless of whether the green "Score!" banner appears.
E.g. Per your screenshot, the 6:40am flight from COS to CMH via DEN posts a regular WGA price of $169; the applied SAVENOW promo discount fare is $112, a 33% savings.
Hope this helps.
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02-01-2024
09:28 AM
Great to hear these stories. LUV It!
Would you do special return favor for all the SW staff that you mentioned: Since this forum is customer-to-customer, would you forward a copy of your posted compliment directly to Southwest Customer Service if you haven't done so already:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
That will help ensure your letter gets processed. Thanks for sharing this experience on this board; LUV to hear these positive experiences.
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@CarlyeThornton wrote:
Thanks for flagging, @DancingDavidE!
Hi Monica -- To make the image your avatar, you'll need to click on your name on the top right of the website and select "My Settings." Scroll down and select "Avatars." You should be able to apply from there, or simply just upload the photo again.
Hope this helps!
Hi Carlye-
I've been wanting to use an image too for my Avatar but have never been able to set it as I don't see the "Avatar" option when going to "My Settings":
Attempting to change the avatar through the photo album brings up an error: "Access Denied - You do not have sufficient privileges for this resource or its parent to perform this action."
I therefore originally assumed that this feature was reserved to certain accounts. However, upon looking at your reply, I would like to use this feature too.
I think the security settings for regular users including the OP @MonicaEberz and my account will need to be adjusted for us to use it.
Thanks!
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@dfwskier wrote:
F.a.t. Guys Burger Bar - Tulsa Intl. AP (censor casued me to use periods to post this - ridiculous)
Double meat burger with choice of 14 toppings, regular fries that would be a large anywhere else. Total price including tax $12.41.
And the burger was pretty good, too. Not the healthiest food one should eat, but if you only do ir occasionally, it probsbly won't k.i.l.l. you (censor caused me to use periods here too)
Thanks for sharing! Too bad this burger place isn't at SAN...or ONT. Those burgers look good for the buck!
My little story on airport food: Back when Jack in the Box had the Grande Sausage Burrito, I managed to get that 1040 calorie breakfast grub for about $6.20 at SAN which kept the stomach full through late afternoon. Great price considering I'm at the airport. Their current meatlovers burrito is 810 calories but is now pricing near the $7.00 range at SAN. That's still a pretty decent price for airport food considering the calorie count is still high but I now usually get my breakfast offsite before coming to SAN...Can't have Jack in the Box every time.
By the way, while we're on the subject of censor bots, just today I spent about 45 minutes trying to figure out why a reply post to the electric scooter discussion thread was being auto-rejected and flagged for spam shortly after posting. I went through all the reference links in my post to make sure they were clean; I kept checking my choice of wording but the bot constantly rejected my post with no reason other than "This reply has been flagged for spam". With a tip from @DancingDavidE I found out the flag was simply because I included SW's own Customer Service Phone Number in the reply which I found to be very strange. Unfortunately, as good as the automated technology is, I've lost count of the number of false-positives I've encountered using AI and automated analytics, especially when going through self-checkout at the grocery store. SW in my opinion does a great job in balancing the self-service tools with an outstanding team of CSA's because compassion in my opinion is what drives the success of the airline, something that AI lacks. Same can be said for the leadership on this discussion board and for airport restaurants like the burger place that appears to be looking out for their customers and not just their financial analytics.
If I see any other decent and value airport restaurants when abroad, I'll be sure to share them here on my trip reports.
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@mendozaben wrote:
Hello everyone,
I will be traveling Feb 16 to Las Vegas from Orange County, CA. I am currently on dialysis and use a mobility aid to get around. It is an electric scooter that folds. I have attached a photo showing what it looks like and its dimensions. My questions are:
1. Do I need to call SWA ahead of time to use this aid?
1. Can I use this at the airport all the way up to the airplane gate?
2. Do I need to check this at the gate or can it come on board with me?
3, If it does need to be checked, will it be at the gate when we land?
I have flown Southwest for over 25 years and really is the only airline I try to fly. As an A List member I know SWA takes care of us as customers. I appreciate any replies to my inquiry. Thank you.
Ben
Hello Ben:
Here is the official Wheelchair info:
"Do I need to call SWA ahead of time to use this aid?"
I would notify the airline in advance. Calling is an option but you can also add a note to your booking via the website per the official policy:
Here's how you can tell us in advance if you'll be bringing your own wheelchair: Adding a wheelchair to an existing booking:
On desktop: Manage your reservation and select "Special Assistance" under the Passenger name. On mobile: Manage your reservation and select the edit pencil icon next to the Passenger name. Then select "Special Assistance". You can also let us know via telephone by calling (SW Customer Service). https://www.southwest.com/help/accessible-travel-assistance/wheelchairs-and-other-devices
Can I use this at the airport all the way up to the airplane gate? Here's the official info on what to expect if you take the scooter through the TSA Checkpoint. When you go through TSA:
Inform the TSA officer of your ability to walk or stand independently before screening. If you have difficulty standing, you may request to be screened while seated in your wheelchair or scooter.
TSA officers will screen wheelchairs and scooters to include the seat cushions and any non-removable pouches or fanny packs. Items will be tested for traces of explosives, and removable items will undergo X-ray screening. The TSA officer will physically inspect the cushion(s) to the extent possible and may use other screening methods to clear your cushion(s).
Screening in Standard Lanes
If you are able to stand and walk, you will be screened by technology. If you are ineligible for screening by technology, a pat-down will be conducted. If you are 75 years of age or older in a wheelchair or scooter (or have PreCheck), you may remain seated and the TSA officer will conduct a test of your hands for trace of explosives.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/disabilities-and-medical-conditions
Do I need to check this at the gate or can it come on board with me? Appears battery-powered scooters will be checked and can be checked at the gate. Here's SW's official policy on this on battery-powered scooters, how they handle the batteries, and a link to a form that you can review and fill out and give to the CSA at the gate: Battery-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids will be securely stowed in the cargo compartment. We recommend that all removable parts of the wheelchair be stowed in the overhead bins or under a seat.
We suggest you print and complete this form if you're checking a wheelchair or mobility aid. Present the completed form to the Customer Service Agent at the ticket or gate counter.
Full details of Southwest's policy and a link to the form on transporting battery-powered scooters:
https://www.southwest.com/help/accessible-travel-assistance/wheelchairs-and-other-devices
If it does need to be checked, will it be at the gate when we land? You should request to have it retrieved at the jet bridge once you land. Let a Flight Attendant or Station Employee in the gate area know once you land that you'll need to collect your device at the jet bridge. Official details: You can retrieve your device at the gate or baggage claim after landing. When checking your device, tell an Employee which option you prefer. If you choose to have your device brought to the jet bridge, identify yourself to a Flight Attendant and/or Station Employee in the gate area when you land.
Hope this helps.
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"I have flown Southwest for over 25 years and really is the only airline I try to fly. As an A List member I know SWA takes care of us as customers."
👍 LUV it! Great to hear!
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01-30-2024
12:50 PM
@Dino68 wrote:
I have since found out this was a scam. Somehow when I tried connecting to Southwest, Infinity Travels intercepted the call and claimed to be Southwest Airlines. They rebooked the tickets and charged me 410 dollars extra that went to them, all while claiming to be Southwest. The 410 showed up on my credit card as Infinity Travels. Apparently this has happened to a lot of other people, some people losing over $4000. I am going to contact Southwest Airlines to see if they can give mea credit for the $900 that went to Southwest. They probably would have let us fly standby if I actually would’ve been talking to them.
Oh no! Did you search for Southwest's phone number on the internet? Unfortunately, there has been reported nationwide problems of this scam where a simple internet search to reach a live customer service rep on the phone results in third party numbers showing up in the search results in place of the airlines' official number...
https://www.reddit.com/r/Scams/comments/192lnr1/infinity_travels_redirected_from_airlines_google/
https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/phone-numbers-airlines-listed-google-directed-scammers-rcna94766
It appears Google has rectified this last year but I cannot speak for the other search engines. I was not able to reproduce this on my end.
However, I agree with your action. I would contact SWA again. Make sure you go here to ensure you're talking directly with a SW Rep:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
I would retrace how you got to Infinity Travels' telephone number via the search, document your search process as supporting evidence that you intended on contacting SW directly, and dispute upcharge amounts. Your documentation of the search process should be sufficient evidence to document that you had zero intention of conducting this flight transaction through Infinity.
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01-30-2024
11:53 AM
01-30-2024
11:53 AM
@2O1OO wrote:
Very interested by this thread and whether the assignment logic has changed this year: I'm an ALP and I fly between 90-100 flights a year, mostly between SAN & SJC. I usually book my tickets months in advance for the next few months.
For the last few years, I've consistently been assigned A16-A18. An then suddenly since the beginning of the year, it's been pretty much all A21-A26 (9 flights so far)
I bought my January flights at the same time as my November or December flights, so I'm positive something has changed in the way those seats are allocated since Jan 1.
I initially thought that they had extended Business Select until 20, but this doesn't appear to be the case.
I wonder whether the assignment within the ALP pool used to be based on travel frequency (the more frequent travelers would get priority) and is now based on purchase price (I bought my current set of flights during a $29 promotion).
Has anyone noticed a change?
Hello from SoCal-
Nearly all of my SW flights are short-hauls, many to/from Northern California that also originate out of SAN. I don't have ALP but currently have A-List. My understanding based on my prior reply and an official SW Twitter/X response was ALP members get first take of the Priority Boarding Positions 36 hours before departure after the A1-A15 group (I assume placed in order when the flight was booked). A-List follows, then Anytime fares, then EBCI.
Based on my experience, I tend to notice many frequent ALP's and A-Listers traveling on SW short-haul flights in between SoCal and the Silicon Valley/Bay Area regularly which can impact my position if many ALP's book. I found that number to fluctuate. For example, I can score an easy A16-20 on some of these flights. Other times, I may not even make it to "A". For example, I had an October '23 SAN-SJC flight that was booked during a $29 sale four months prior in July '23. Despite the early booking, I was placed in the early B-Group (but had the "A61" benefit as A-List). On the day of travel out of SAN, it was evident that were at least 45 ALP's on this flight and many A-Lists. I'm guessing a boss from one of those big tech companies wanted their staff to come to work. It's likely that your first few January flights too have been loaded with ALP's with 6-10 booking ahead of yours.
Lately, I've been placed anywhere in between the A20's to A40's as A-List. Even if I have to settle for "A61", I still get a great window seat with overhead bin space near the seat. I don't think the amount paid has anything to do with the position as my most recent short-haul flight to OAK was $39, flown just a few weeks ago, and booked last October. I got A23 as A-List. The folks ahead of me appeared to be ALP's.
Long answer short: I think it fluctuates. Hope this helps.
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@gsking wrote:
I have a flight I can change to any local airport and any day for this week. But I’m still unsure of day and airport. Any idea when I lose the ability to change the return flight without penalty? Is it when I fly the outbound flight?
Hello-
I have an upcoming flight later this week out of ONT that was booked last fall during a sale. Back on 11/13, I received "A change was made to your trip" email indicating the departure time was moved ahead by a few hours which "unlocked" the ability for me to change the flight date/time of the itinerary +/-14 days at no difference of fare up to two times. There was no expiration date of when this needs to be done other than a reference that I can either check in at T24 or make the changes. Also given the option to select nearby airports.
At the time of this post which is over 2 months after I received the notice, this "unlocked" status is still there when I initiate a "Change Flight" in my profile for the itinerary which means I can make the change online without a need to contact Southwest.
I assume this self-serve feature will remain in place until I check into the flight per the message header (as A-List which comes with Priority Boarding, I'm assuming that will be the 36-hour mark for me). I will confirm all this as I get closer to my departure date and will let you know when the feature times out to make the change online; after that point, a Southwest CSA should still be able to accommodate you.
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@AndrewDoss wrote:
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the extraordinary care and love that Southwest Airlines consistently extends to my family during our flights.
As someone who understands the heartache of having loved ones separated by distance, your airline has become more than just a means of transportation for us. Your team's commitment to going above and beyond in providing exceptional service has created a sense of comfort and warmth, making each journey with Southwest Airlines a truly special experience.
In an era where genuine care often takes a back seat to efficiency, Southwest Airlines stands out as a beacon of compassion. Your staff's unwavering dedication to ensuring the well-being of passengers has not only alleviated the challenges of traveling with family but has also left an indelible mark on our hearts.
The love and consideration exhibited by Southwest Airlines have inspired me in ways beyond measure. The impact has been so profound that I have recently applied to for a part time position. I believe that joining your team would be an opportunity to contribute to a company whose values align with my own – compassion, dedication, and a commitment to making every journey a memorable one.
In closing, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the outstanding service your team consistently provides. Thank you for being more than an airline; thank you for being a source of comfort, joy, and connection for my family. I eagerly anticipate the possibility of being a part of the Southwest Airlines family and contributing to the legacy of care that sets your airline apart.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The Doss Family
@AndrewDoss
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story to the community. LUV it!
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01-28-2024
05:55 PM
2 Loves
@Darellgolden11 wrote:
Now, that the merger between JetBlue and Spirit was not approved, and those two airlines are struggling to survive, it is the right time for a BIG return to EWR. Customers can't wait anymore. Just LGA is not enough for such of airline. Come back to business Southwest. Come back to EWR. this is the right time!
Hello! Since this is a customer-to-customer forum, I would submit your request directly to Southwest:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
I was reading that the market at EWR was very tough on SW specifically and that LGA turned out to be a better location for Southwest to operate for the NYC-area market. I'm speculating that SW had to muscle in a bunch of resources to operate at EWR but the return-on-investment was not good in comparison to operating at LGA but I could be wrong. Spirit has taken a bunch of the open slots there and I do think that bringing the LUV airline back to EWR would require some high-level negotiations in my opinion.
Since Spirit's reputation is not the best due to its fees, not sure how it will perform at EWR as a SW "replacement". For now, I would explore the shared-shuttle options from NJ-side of the Hudson to LGA to see if any of these can feed you into LGA as alternates.
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01-28-2024
02:50 PM
01-28-2024
02:50 PM
@floridaguy wrote:
Yesterday I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. I spent the entire day there, when they opened at 10 AM and closed at 5 PM. It was quite an experience!
For those who have never been, I highly recommend the visit. The trip from MCO to SNA is long but Southwest gave us an enjoyable experience on the way here. The flight crews were great and it was an easy, but long trip. Today, I start the return journey.
https://www.nixonlibrary.gov/
Glad you enjoyed your trip in SoCal! Were you able to sit behind the desk in the replica Oval Office?
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Hello-
Since the rep cannot locate your reservation, please confirm that you attempted to book your hotel either via Southwesthotels.com or RocketMiles not via another service. Do you have a charge posted to your bank/credit card statement that reads something like RTI*SWHOTELS (HOTEL NAME)?
E.g.: "RTI*SWHOTELS HOLIDAYLONDON GB"
If so, I would try calling again and provide them with record of the transaction so they can better trace it. If the charge looks different, it is likely through another provider.
Southwest Hotels/Booking.com contact details:
concierge@southwesthotels.com 1-844-782-9792 773-770-4953
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@Ancadgel wrote:
When I try to book rdu to Koa it says call Southwest ( can't be booked online). So I called and the person said they couldn't book that either...that id have to book a one way to West Coast then another from there to Hawaii. But they also said I'd have to exit and renter security again therefore I need at least 2 hours in between flight. This seems crazy...why would I need to exit? I'm not planning on checking bags. I was planning on catching the Hawaii flight from Denver bc I can do a nonstop from RDU there.
Hello-
@dfwskier is correct. A single oneway flight itinerary cannot include more than one plane change. Another airline may be able to get you to your destination more directly but if you don't mind paying two separate fares and having both a connection layover and a stopover as part of your journey (I like to stop over at intermediate places too along the way), you can still fly SW but your stopover time in between two itineraries may be a little tight to complete in a single day in the event of a delay.
Would something like this work?
1. RDU-DEN-LAS
2. LAS-KOA
1st Connecting Flight: RDU-DEN-LAS
Second Leg Non-Stop: LAS-KOA
Regarding going through TSA, when you called SW Customer Service, it is likely the rep didn't know that you were flying carry-on only; if you're flying carry-on only and not checking any bags (provided you're able to get overhead bin space on the RDU-DEN-LAS leg of your trip), there's no need for you to return to landside at LAS if you do two separate one-ways. However, if you don't have A-List, I would ensure you check-in right at the T24 mark and if you get a deep-in-the-B position for either the RDU-DEN or DEN-LAS segments, I would purchase Upgraded Boarding to ensure you will not need to gate-check your carry-on in the event the flight is full and bin space runs out.
As mentioned, the connections will likely be a little tight and risky if there's a delay for the RDU-DEN-LAS segment. If I did something like this and flew exclusively SW, I would likely plan on spending the day and night at LAS and complete the LAS-KAO leg the next day so I don't get unexpectedly stuck in Las Vegas should I miss the connection to Hawaii.
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01-28-2024
09:44 AM
01-28-2024
09:44 AM
@jp2024 wrote:
Hello everyone, would you be so kind to allow me to introduce myself, my name is James and I live in Tuscaloosa, AL. I'm formerly a business owner of Mi Time Travel and hoping to work part time in the Travel industry.
Hello-
Thanks for posting. I would sign up for the Talent Community if you haven't done so yet. That way, SW recruiters can process your inquiry and contact you on openings.
https://careers.southwestair.com/jointalentcommunity
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01-28-2024
09:40 AM
@TraumaRN wrote:
Yesterday, my faith in Southwest Airlines soared to new heights. Despite a two-hour delay initially attributed to weather, the true reason unfolded as we reached the gate – several Marines in dress blues, standing in solemn tribute. The announcement from the USO revealed that we were awaiting the arrival of a fallen soldier, his final journey home entrusted to our flight. The care and respect shown by the gate, ramp, and flight crews were nothing short of remarkable.
Onboard, the captain humbly acknowledged the honor, privilege, and profound responsibility felt by both the crew and first officer in ensuring the safe transport of this precious cargo to their awaiting loved ones. Southwest, you’ve earned my deepest admiration and loyalty.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment and the countless ways you serve us each day. It might be a thankless job at times, much like trauma care, but it’s always a joy and privilege to serve those who rely on us when it matters most. With immense LUV and loyalty, TraumaRN
I LUV hearing stories like these. Thanks for sharing!
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@2O1OO wrote:
Knowing how full a flight is is very helpful to all passengers: if I know the flight is full, I don't feel bad going for a middle seat in the front rows because they're going to be taken anyway, whereas if I know it's empty, I'd go for my own row in the back (and help distribute weight in the process)
Many people do the same but the process for this is inefficient:
- many people ask the flight attendant in front when they get in
- very often, flight attendants will make announcements that the flight is full or that it's half empty and people can get their own row in the back, but no matter how many times they say it, they're gonna miss people since only the 5-10 people who are getting in at that time will hear it, so it's inefficient.
This could be easily solved if the gate agent was telling people (or maybe each boarding group) how full the flight ("about 70% full") is with simple guidance on where they can seat:
- flight is full, all/almost all seats will be taken
- everyone should be able to get an aisle or window seat
- everyone can get their own row
Thx
Hello! Good suggestion. I would forward your request directly to Southwest so that it can be processed as this forum is customer-to-customer: https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
I've found that approx. 75% of the time, the gate agent will announce how full the flight would be but I wouldn't mind if that's part of Standard Protocol and announced every time. Usually the Gate Agent will need to announce if the following is true:
1. If the flight is full and there's a low volume of passengers checking bags which may signal that the Late B and C-Group customers waiting at the gate may not have overhead bin space once they board; they are made aware that they can and should voluntarily gate check their carry-on bag to their final destination for free.
2. If the flight is only partially full, customers are usually made aware at the gate that they should spread out throughout the plane to balance the weight of the plane but this is one area that I don't hear announced all the time to your suggestion.
Some airports also use Southwest's innovative status monitors which also show how full the flight is. I wouldn't mind this feature being rolled out system-wide or available on the SW phone app when one looks up the flight status:
PDX-SJC (Full):
OAK-SAN (75% Full):
PHX-SAN (95% Full):
For now, I would forward your suggestion directly to Southwest so they can process it. Whenever you fly and need to know the status, I would ask the Gate Agent personally about the status after they do the general rules/announcements but don't mention how full the flight is.
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Hello!
This was the same pet story from TikTok that was parroted all over the internet from last fall.
https://community.southwest.com/t5/Inflight-Experience/Customer-service-fail-booting-customer-for-calming-whimpering/m-p/165093
https://community.southwest.com/t5/Inflight-Experience/Pets-and-opinions-on-SW-not-welcome-on-flights/m-p/165222
I frequently fly aboard the LUV airline as an A-List member and came across this story. I looked at it from a fact-based standpoint. Back then, this was my response:
According to the few outlets in the mainstream press who took the time to fact check and made an effort to try to find out what happened beforehand, Southwest's decision to remove the passenger was made after the woman repeatedly refused to comply with the flight crew's instructions regarding the proper handling of her pet according to an official statement. I do know for a fact that refusing to obey the instructions of any crew member is grounds for refusal to transport. I think this fact alone makes all those headlines (e.g. "Woman Removed From Flight For Petting Dog") inaccurate and possibly unfair or defaming to the airline. The headline could in fact very well be "Woman Removed from Southwest Flight for Refusal to Cooperate with Crew Instructions to Comply with FAA Pet Regulations."
https://community.southwest.com/t5/Inflight-Experience/Pets-and-opinions-on-SW-not-welcome-on-flights/m-p/165225/highlight/true#M7505
I went on and posted that it would be totally foolish of me to stop flying Southwest based on this video or to take any sides on this story. To this date, I still don't know what led up to the incident. But I've had my share of crew instructions and actions that I didn't like such as the crew needing to keep the cabin lights turned on during a recent night flight but if those requests or actions are in fact lawful and righteous, I obey without complaint.
To those who follow my posts regularly well know that I enjoy photo-blogging my trips and take a window seat...but I'm not above the rules of the crew. I prefer if they turned the main lights off as they usually do so I can capture night photos of the scenery without a glare, but if they need to keep the lights on for the duration of the flight for whatever reason especially safety, I obey without question. FAA rules regulate that passengers need to obey the rules enforced by the flight crew. If I start creating a scene about this and refuse to comply with the crew's decision about the cabin lights, I too may get the boot.
I would be very careful about making travel decisions based on one person's point of view published to social media regarding a pet incident, even if that point of view gets a viral worldwide reaction.
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Hello!
Southwest serves the Remy’s Grahams aboard morning flights.
https://community.southwest.com/t5/Blog/Helpful-Holiday-Tips-from-Southwest-Airlines/ba-p/166654
Enjoy!
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@rkeven12 wrote:
Hello! I wanted to recognize 2 staff members that helped me at the ticket counter at the Denver International Airport. I can't seem to find the link to submit a recognition form, can someone give me direction on how to do so?
Thanks! Renee
Hello!
Go ahead and send your praise in an email to Southwest directly:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
Click on "Email us" and then "I have a compliment".
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01-22-2024
09:55 AM
01-22-2024
09:55 AM
@TamSwin wrote:
I’m planning to travel next month on a same day trip to pick up my 10 month old grandbaby and bring him home with me. I would like for his mom to be able to meet my incoming flight at the gate and sit with us until I board the flight home with him.
How can I get her through security for this?
Also, do I need to book my flight legs as separate one way trips on the app since I will have a lap child only on the return flight?
Hello-
I would have the mother arrive earlier to the airport than normal; I would have her go the Southwest Ticket Counter and request the Gate Pass (a.k.a. Non-Passenger Escort Pass) from there. She should allow at least 30 additional minutes to get the gate pass in case of a line at the counter. She will need her valid ID and a copy of your itinerary.
Regarding booking, I would book two one ways as the price will be the same. For the "return" one way, indicate that you will be traveling with a lap child. The required Boarding Verification Document for the Lap Child can be printed at the airport on the day of travel at a kiosk or the ticket counter.
Details: https://www.southwest.com/help/flying-with-children/lap-child-policy
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@ShortCheckBagga wrote:
Hello
1 - If I am on a Nashville to San Francisco flight and want to get off in Las Vegas and NOT board the connecting flight to SFO - am I allowed to do that?
2 - Would my checked in luggage just continue to SFO?
Thanks
Hello-
Skipping the connecting flight to SFO and getting off at the connection point at LAS is known as Skiplagging. Even if the traveler verbally notifies Southwest staff at the gate at LAS that they will not board their connecting flight and scraps the rest of trip, Southwest does not permit this as the itinerary isn't being completed as booked. The penalty may result in the remainder of your booked itinerary being cancelled and Rapid Rewards TQP points accrued for the itinerary forfeited.
If you want to stop over at LAS, I would rebook the flight to: BNA - LAS
If you then want to head over to the Bay Area later, book a separate flight from LAS - SFO (or alternatively OAK) via a separate one-way.
This option is likely more expensive than a one-way with a connection but the trade off would be that your itinerary and accrued Rapid Rewards points will remain in good standing with Southwest for your LAS stopover. Plus, you'll earn two flights toward A-List and Companion Pass instead of one should you continue to SFO later on Southwest.
Last summer, I took a train trip up north to PDX but elected to fly back home to SAN, but there were no SW nonstops from PDX-SAN on my return date. The layover city was SJC but I elected to separate the flights into two so I can "extend" the layover and actually stop over and enjoy some sights near SJC for the day before returning to SAN instead of waiting at the airport. As mentioned, this will likely cost more in airfare but I've found the tradeoff worth it as I've always enjoyed stopping over at intermediate cities, but I would never do it via a Skiplag.
Checked baggage also goes to the final destination for one-way itineraries with a connection. Skiplagging will most likely also generate a very high risk of you getting separated from your luggage with the traveler fully responsible of the added shipping expense whereas two one-ways ensures you can collect your bags at the stopover city so you can go explore.
My advice: Don't Skiplag. Rebook as two one-ways, even if the airfare is higher.
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01-19-2024
03:10 PM
01-19-2024
03:10 PM
Hello Community Southwest:
SoCalFlyer97's second Southwest Trip for 2024 is in the book.
This was a short day trip from San Diego to Vegas, purchased during last September's WOW50 sale. Also spent the night in downtown San Diego via Southwest Hotels booking. This flight was a midweek flight, but both legs filled to capacity thanks in part to the Consumer Electronics Show that happened in Vegas. Here's the rundown:
Took the MTS public transit into Downtown San Diego and to the airport and got some good shots of SAN's New Terminal 1 construction progress.
Crews began to knock down SAN's former Administrative Offices building to make room. Looks like they gutted every interior wall and took everything out beforehand including the kitchen sink. Its interior looked completely empty as they were demo'ing the structure.
Crews working hard... They're building a new Pedestrian bridge that will link the upper-level drop-off area to the departures level.
No major winter storm delays or cancellations at SAN at the Southwest terminal as of yet. Somebody notify the press.
Outbound Flight: Plane: 737-700 Full Flight, On Time Preboards: 3
Taking off. In the background, another shot of New T1 to the left of the current T1.
Passing by Ocean Beach
Hello to everybody flying out of LGB!
No winter deicing required today for Mount Baldy.
"The best ideas are born on napkins. What's yours?" Let me think about that...
Passing by Mount Charleston during the final descent.
Hello LAS! No we didn't miss our stop...Current wind patterns tell us we've got to turn around at Lake Mead before we land.
There's my RTC limo waiting to take me into town. Day pass $8.
The Consumer Electronics Show is in town. No, that was not my purpose of travel to LAS...but SoCalFlyer97 LUVs tech so I passed by.
There's that giant marble TV.
Took care of my business and headed down LV Boulevard before it was time to head back.
It appears that crews got most of the F1 Grandstands in this area all cleaned up minus a few marked 'dings' on the sidewalk. Somebody please tell Hard Rock to please keep this beautiful lake in tact when they rebrand and convert the property. Maybe I need to present that idea to them on the inflight napkin.
Gone: Bellagio Fountain Club grandstands. The current "stage" construction is likely for a separate event. The original trees appear to be back too! I've read that crews moved them to a local nursery during the F1 Race and brought them back home after they removed the grandstands.
Return Flight: Plane: 737-800 Full Flight On Time Push Back from the Gate with a 12-minute tarmac hold due to air traffic at SAN Preboards: 9
While we were waiting to be cleared for take off, I saw Air France Flight 23 pass by our plane for departure. Upon tracking this flight later on FlightAware, it was beginning its non-stop 10-hour journey from LAS to Paris CDG. It left its gate at LAS at 3:18pm PST, was in the air a little bit after 3:30pm and arrived at CDG at 1:18am PST (10:18am local CET).
This skyline grand finale never gets old. Now over to the Hotel...
I had lots of options...Stay at at a large full-service hotel? A budget inn? Boutique? or Hostel? Being a weekday with no major events in San Diego, I had lots of options. I elected for a small Hilton property located along the MTS 992 Airport shuttle bus route. The inn has a building structure that appears to "clone" the historic San Diego County Administrative Center building with its art deco style.
Pricing run-down which includes all room taxes and fees:
Room Type: 2 Queen Beds Rapid Rewards Points Plus: 2,000 SW Hotels/RocketMiles: $166
Competing Booking Site Rates: Other 3rd Party Lowest Price per Trivago: $159 Direct: $156 w/ Loyalty Markup $10 in return for 2,000 CP-Eligible RR Points: Excellent tradeoff
The downtown Hampton Inn is one of those hotels that gets pricey during the peak season or whenever there's something major happening in San Diego, but during the off-season, one can find a great deal for this inn that comes with free hot breakfast.
There was one little item that was on the hotel lobby kiosk that I didn't quite figure out:
The large flat-screen kiosk had a very beautiful downtown skyline graphic with the Hampton logo. One can track SAN flights from there.
However, the photo's orientation appears to draw focus to the Manchester Grand hotel towers as the subject of the photo. One of Hilton's competitors--Hyatt--operates the Manchester. From a traveler's perspective there's nothing to complain about; it's a great photo visually and having the info kiosk is a nice guest amenity. However, from a marketing point-of-view, I would have used a background pic that drew less focus to a competitor hotel. Just my two...
Anyway, as a traveler, Hilton delivered a five-star stay for me again for this Southwest Hotels booking and TripAdvisor review forthcoming.
Enjoy!
Prior SW Flight Reports: https://community.southwest.com/t5/Inflight-Experience/Jan-24-Photo-Trip-amp-Southwest-Hotels-Report-ONT-OAK/m-p/167566
https://community.southwest.com/t5/Inflight-Experience/Nov-23-Photo-Trip-Report-SAN-LAS-with-Formula-1-Track/m-p/165643
Prior SW Hotels Reports: https://community.southwest.com/t5/Inflight-Experience/Jan-24-Photo-Trip-amp-Southwest-Hotels-Report-ONT-OAK/m-p/167566
https://community.southwest.com/t5/Rapid-Rewards/December-23-Southwest-Hotels-Photo-Stay-Report-Corona-CA/m-p/167112
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01-18-2024
04:05 PM
1 Love
@Anxiety-Filled wrote:
I meant to click round trip but i accidentally selected the one-way.. and when i was trying to change it to round trip, it cancelled my flight
Hello!
Since Southwest does not charge any change or cancellation fees, you should still be AOK. I would start the booking process over by cancelling any "leftover" trips from the itinerary that was booked in error. You'll get full flight credit back. You can use then use flight credit toward rebooking the itinerary as a Round Trip.
Keep in mind that there is no discount for booking Round Trip versus booking two One Ways; booking two one ways under two different confirmation numbers returns the same cost as booking Round Trip and is permitted as long it does not generate a conflict (it also has the 'benefit' of your points posting to your Rapid Rewards account after the first leg is completed). The only drawback of this approach is if Southwest changes its flight schedule, issues a weather advisory, or there's a flight disruption that allows for a +/- 14 day rebooking window without any difference in fare, my understanding is that the change can only be made to the one way leg of the impacted itinerary whereas both legs can be changed under a Round Trip booking.
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