@bec102896 wrote:
Just in: soon you can standby on another southwest flight regardless of your fare class and Business Select customers will get free Wi-Fi!
i’m curious for A List A List preferred customers what are your thoughts on this change since you could be on standby with a lot more people certain times of the year. Keep in mind it’s only standby where A list still gets same day confirmed.
I'll weigh in as I usually book WGA+ (non A-List).
I think the Same-Day Standby policy change was necessary considering competing legacy carriers were doing the same. Since the benefit appears to be morphing into a standard feature across the airline industry, it makes sense in my opinion for Southwest to offer it too. Since Southwest generally does not like to upcharge for such "basics", I think this had to be done.
We should keep in mind two factors: Same-Day Standby List is different from Same-Day Flight Change (both currently included with A-List and WGA+ fares or higher). Of all the times that I've needed to use either of the Same-Day change benefits under WGA+, I have only needed to use Same-Day Flight Change; I have not needed to use the Same-Day Standby List benefit. It appears that non A-List'ers who purchase WGA fare will not get the Same-Day Flight Change benefit.
Regarding A-List, I don't think there's much to worry about because I assume A-List'ers will still retain their priority order on the Standby List based on fare, being placed only behind those who are re-accommodated due to flight disruptions and in front of everybody else. As for me who books WGA+, the policy states that non A-List WGA+ fare also remain ahead of WGA and behind A-List.
With all that being said, I think the A-List is long past due for much needed value upgrades. I would propose a number of add-ons to A-List so that this program too can better compete with the other carriers.
Example suggested perks to add to A-List combined with all existing perks:
A-List: Free Wi-Fi Transferrable Flight Credit for WGA Standand Plus Priority Pass Reimbursement (10 lounge visits per year) 100% TSA PreCheck or Global Entry enrollment Reimbursement 25% CLEAR enrollment Reimbursement
A-List Preferred:
All A-List perks above plus
Premium Beverage Prestige Priority Pass Reimbursement (unlimited visits) Free Companion Upgrades to Business Select Board after A30 if positioned at A31 or behind 100% CLEAR enrollment Reimbursement
... View more
08-10-2023
11:05 AM
08-10-2023
11:05 AM
@Tambaongoc Southwest currently has a number of Travel Advisories posted.
I forgot to mention that if your origin, destination or through city airport is included in a Travel Advisory posted on Southwest's website on the date of travel, all fares qualify for rebooking or standby travel (within 14 days of original travel date) in the original class of service between the same two city pairs without paying additional charges.
... View more
08-10-2023
10:45 AM
08-10-2023
10:45 AM
Hello!
@Tambaongoc wrote:
1. Will I need to pay for changing to an earlier flight?
As @dfwskier mentioned, depends on Fare Class or A-List status. A fare class of WGA+ or having A-List status allows you to do Same Day Flight Change or same day standby at no difference of fare.
@Tambaongoc wrote:
2. How do I find out whether I qualify for free same day standby?
Anytime after midnight of the day of travel, first check the Southwest App or website to see if you can do a Same Day Flight Change to the 6:45am flight. Same Day Flight Change can be done online.
Pull up your reservation, and then select "Change Flight". If there are seats available on the 6:45am flight, you can rebook with the same city pairs via the app/website. As mentioned for question #1, if you have WGA+ (or better fare) or A-List status, there will be no difference in fare. Note that this benefit can be done anytime after midnight of the travel date; this cannot be done at the 24 hour check-in mark. Note that your original boarding position will not carry over to the rebooked flight. If you don't qualify for free Same Day Flight Change (i.e.: You have a WGA fare with no A-List), I would rebook this flight as soon as possible if able as waiting until travel day will further escalate the difference in fare.
If the app/website shows "unavailable" when you attempt to rebook, you can be placed on standby but this will need to be done with a CSA at the airport. "Unavailable" doesn't necessarily mean sold out.
3. Should I still check in for my flight at 6:15PM the day before and get to airport early to go on standby?
I would certainly still check in at the 24 hour mark if you don't have A-List or Early Bird Check In in case you cannot switch to the earlier flight. If you were not able to secure a Same Day Flight Change online, I would give yourself an extra 15-30 minutes when you arrive at the airport for the Same Day Standby.
... View more
08-09-2023
08:21 AM
@mnapo2023 wrote:
I sent in a Lost and Found Report a few days ago, in which I mentioned I had an airtag inside that told me exactly where it was, yet today I received an update saying they haven't located my purse despite me telling them where it was. I don't understand. I've tried calling the airport where it ended up, the Baggage Claims Services that I see it's in, and I get nothing even when I tell them I see where it is.
Hello-
This forum is customer-to-customer and it appears that you have already started the process in locating your item. I would try contacting Southwest again since your AirTag device is providing you with the exact location of your lost item.
If you're still able, I would provide them with a screenshot of the AirTag map which should assist plus records of your previous inquiries regarding the item. Alternatively, if the AirTag shows that it's still at the airport, I would return to the airport location of which your AirTag is showing and locate the nearest Southwest or airport agent.
... View more
@inetindyswa wrote:
30 years as an SWA loyalists. I drive 2+ hours one way just to fly SWA. So I wrote to the VP of Customer Relations on this topic. Got a boilerplate response. My thought was simply to reward those of us who earned A List Preferred (and even Companion Status) for the past 20+ years. At that point if you are still qualifying each year with active credits fine. But for many of us who's jobs morphed into "virtual" after COVID and fly maybe 6 times per year now instead of 100+, we would automatically get nothing more than A List Preferred boarding status. No extra points. No special accommodations other than not being stuck with "the unwashed masses" 😁 if at 24 hours and 10 seconds we check in and are stuck in middle to late B. What's the financial risk to the company? Maybe the loss of Early Bird, or Ugrade Revenue for the few flights we are still doing? I have Hilton Lifetime Diamond status as a thank you for 1500+ nights in their properties. 1 time o 100 tines a years I walk in with those extras. Not even asking for that at SWA. Let's start a grassroots campaign that SWA can advertise to younger road warriors to cement their loyalty. As I have said for 30+ years: "If Southwest doesn't go to that city, I really don't need to be in that city!".
Hello-
I would forward your A-List policy suggestion to Southwest's general email; that way, it can be sent to the appropriate department head within the corporation.
Its possible that the VP of Customer Relations may not be correct department to receive the suggestion (may be VP or Director of Operations, Marketing or whoever oversees the Rapid Rewards loyalty program). Not sure if Customer Relations forwarded your letter to the appropriate department head(s) but it might be worth it to resend it just in case.
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us
Nevertheless, not sure if Southwest will make an exception simply because as we all know, frequent flyers pay a lot of money in airfare to the airline to fly frequently, even for WGA short-hauls if you add them all up. But as I said, your letter can help the aforementioned departments determine what kinds of promotions to offer including the current promotion of being able to buy Tier-Qualifying Rapid Reward Points until 8/15.
... View more
@Tstphns81 wrote:
My baggage was severely damaged by SW over the weekend and they are refusing to compensate me. How do I file a complaint?
Hello-
Below is Southwest's policy on damage claims:
The general policy is that claims are to be made within 4 hours of arriving at the airport or collecting the bags from baggage claim:
https://www.southwest.com/help/baggage/lost-damaged-baggage
We're sorry about your baggage—we're here to help. Please make a report in person to the Baggage Service Office (located in the baggage claim area or at the ticket counter). If you've already left the airport, please Contact us here or call (888) 202-1024.
For domestic itineraries, Customers must notify us of the claim no later than four hours after either: (a) arrival of the flight on which the loss, damage, or delay is alleged to have occurred, or; (b) receipt of the baggage, whichever is applicable.
For domestic itineraries, we’re not liable for manufacturer defects or for minor damage resulting from normal wear and tear, such as cuts, scratches, scuffs, stains, dents, punctures, marks, and dirt. We’re also not liable for carryon baggage or any items contained in a bag deemed overstuffed.
For international itineraries, the Customer must contact us no later than seven calendar days in the case of damage to baggage and twenty-one calendar days in the case of delay.
If you made your initial claim within the four hour mark and the damage does not fit the "minor damage" category, you may be due compensation. Since this forum is customer-to-customer, I would call the number above with your issue. Even if you don't "qualify", I would still try to write an email or call the number on the damaged luggage. I would provide pictures. They should have record that you attempted to rectify this with the prior CSA's who were not able to offer you compensation.
While cash compensation to pay for replacement luggage could be out of the question at this point, the airline may be able to offer you some other perk in return for your business toward a future flight such as a LUV voucher.
Email Southwest:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us
... View more
08-08-2023
09:21 AM
08-08-2023
09:21 AM
@CupCrusher40 wrote:
what safety measures so coffee pot not overheat? thank you
I'm not sure what you're asking. Are you asking about the coffee pots that are used in the plane's galley (kitchen) areas for inflight beverage service? Making sure the coffee isn't too hot?
Inflight food and beverages aboard any airline in the USA are carefully regulated which include vetting the manufacturers of such products and the equipment used to prep them. When I was growing up and worked my first jobs in the restaurant industry, management was required to do food safety temperature audits of cooked foods, refrigerators, and freezers daily to ensure temperatures are correct and within safe tolerances. I'm sure the coffee pots aboard the plane are carefully checked on a regular basis too.
I believe the OEM manufactures of aviation coffee makers also incorporate special "software" into their coffee equipment unlike regular commercial or home coffee pots to ensure precise temperature at given altitudes as I've read that the brewing temperature tolerance decreases as the plane ascends to higher elevations. Anything too low prevents a boil to properly brew the grounds; anything too high spoils the drink.
Hence, I assume good coffee served on the plane comes at a safe temperature.
... View more
@Socalflyer wrote:
This was my first time on Southwest. I was impressed with the efficiency of boarding and onboarding. You've got something going there.
The only issue I have are against those who are scheming the boarding policy by pretending to need a wheelchair. There was a couple who utilized the wheel chair when boarding but was quick to get off and walk the entire way out of the airport. They walked faster than I did. How does the wheelchair access work? Do you need a handicap sticker, or is it purely on the honor system?
Hello-
No handicap sticker or proof of disability is required.
The pre-boarding process is regulated by federal law under the Air Carrier Access Act. For a passenger to be entitled to pre-boarding or wheelchair, that passenger self-declares to the gate CSA as being a person with a disability that needs a specific seat or needing assistance or a wheelchair to board. No proof is required. They board during pre-boarding whereas those that declare that they "need extra time to board" due to disability board before Family Boarding in between the A and B groups.
Unfortunately, due to medical privacy in the USA, there is currently no cure-all solution to screen out possible "fake" pre-boarders as the airlines do not collect information concerning the extent of a declared disability.
To counter this, I would simply be an example and elect not to make any false disability declarations at the gate.
ps. Nice profile name @Socalflyer
... View more
@Socalflyer wrote:
First time flying Southwest.
How can we utilize the efficiency of the onboarding process towards the exit process?
Some seem to lack the etiquette or don't know it. Thus, you have folks in the back aggressively trying to get out first. If they had to catch a transfer, I get it. Couldn't they inform the flight attendants for support for this situations, then have people exit in the order they boarded?
Hello-
Welcome to the LUV airline! My experience has long been that the exit process is generally orderly and those in the front of the plane exit first. I had one exception and that was the FA's accommodating a passenger who had a tight connection. They allowed that person to exit first.
Most people do stand and wait once the plane stops at the gate and the seatbelt light turns off. Aisle passengers for the most part get their carry on's from the overhead bins at this point. I've always seen it orderly with those in the back of the plane waiting. Being a window seat person, I usually stay seated until it is my turn. Should a case of a mad rush to exit arise, I would sit back down and let the person(s) who needs to get off right away pass through.
If your flight had a chaotic exit process (e.g. People in the back trying to force their way to the front), I would contact Southwest Customer Service directly and describe what happened as this forum is customer-to-customer. They may be able to provide you with assurance that this is not normal.
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
... View more
08-07-2023
09:33 AM
08-07-2023
09:33 AM
@CupCrusher40 wrote:
Is it possible to make flight number bigger at gate on TV
Hello-
The graphic designs seen on the Gate Monitors appear to vary by airport--the airport manages some; others have Southwest's innovative digital wayfinding feature that I assume Southwest manages. Do you happen to have a picture of the gate monitor in question? Examples below. If not, which airport and which gate # are you referring to? That will help determine who to forward your suggestion to.
E.g. Airport-managed gate monitors:
SAN, Terminal 1 (west airside wing)
SAN Terminal 1, (east airside wing)
LAS Terminal 1, (B Gates Wing)
SMF Terminal B:
Airline-Managed Gate monitors:
OAK w/ Southwest's digital wayfinding graphics:
Thanks!
... View more
@CupCrusher40 wrote:
"Bring me a wing, gonig so fast it's a blast, over the great plains on the great plane!
I'm no song writer but if I were asked to lead such a project, I would prep some kind of specification sheet outlining what I would think the chorus and verses should include and let the professional songwriter and artist do their magic (e.g. Travis Tritt performed a customized version of "Bible Belt" in the 90's for the end credit roll for "My Cousin Vinny" which effectively describe the movie's story). Maybe something similar that describes Southwest's former catchphrase "free to move about the country" without it sounding like a commercial.
Maybe also throw in some words unique to the airline (e.g. Wanna) but don't over do it.
Example Specs:
Title: Make it Freedom-Focused in relation to mobility.
Verse 1: How Southwest began (e.g. The triangle of the Texas cities drawn on a napkin) without directly mentioning Southwest.
Chorus: Focus the message on freedom with a little bit on the freedom to move. Maybe include the words "LUV" or "Wanna" in these lines but keep the Southwest marketing conservative so the freedom message is not lost.
Verse 2: Additional lines that describe Southwests's Business Model that helps gives people the freedom to move (what makes it unique) without mentioning Southwest. Maybe even include one other Southwest-unique item like "A1-A15" as an adjective somewhere (e.g. quoting from the original poster "Bring me a wing, going so fast it will be an A1 through 15 blast"). Again, don't over do it on Southwest wording but just enough to hint to the listener.
Chorus
Bridge: A few more lines on freedom but focus on freedom from addictions as the bridge with a small mentioning of how seat leather frees people. Base the lines on the airline's contributions of its seat leather to Unshattered which is reworked into new bags as a tool to help prevent relapse: https://twitter.com/SouthwestAir/status/1652719469033140224
Chorus x2
... View more
08-03-2023
09:04 AM
@juaxxys wrote:
I'm attempting to contact somebody who can lead me in the correct heading to discuss game's sponsorships. I'm searching for additional data and an application cycle.
Hello!
It looks like another poster inquired of something similar in June regarding a sports sponsorship. Here's the link to that thread that includes a Southwest staff response with an email contact to initiate a sponsorship inquiry with the airline.
https://community.southwest.com/t5/Southwest-Careers/Sports-sponsorships/m-p/160191
... View more
@cb884x wrote:
I applied for a role with Southwest Airlines, and it is currently: in Processing.
I was directed here to read FAQ about the job updates and hiring process. I must say, HR is very helpful to all potential candidates that have questions in regard to joining the Southwest team. All this information you provide is very helpful. Thank you, one thousand times!
FLY HIGH!❤️
Best,
Cecil Berryman
Hello Cecil-
Glad to hear that Southwest HR is assisting you with your job opportunity and application. So that the HR staff receive their recognition due, would you let the airline know of your experience by emailing Southwest directly. If you have the names of any staff that helped, let them know:
https://support.southwest.com/email-us/s/
I'm sure the rep who receives your email will forward it to the appropriate HR department head.
Best wishes in your career!
... View more
@thevig1983 wrote:
Hello,
Can the $75 annual credit through the Chase Southwest credit card be used towards a rental car booked through Rapid Rewards? Or is it just for flights?
I haven't needed to book a car rental through Southwest as my philosophy is to handle any needed car rentals off the airport to save some money (some cases nearly 40%) but I have used Southwest Hotels and therefore assume the answer is 'No' because just like Southwest Hotels, the payment is for a car rental, not a flight. Here are the rules for the travel credit:
$75 Southwest ® Annual Travel Credit: A statement credit will automatically be applied to your account when your Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards ® Priority Card is used for Southwest Airlines ® purchases (excluding Upgraded Boardings and inflight purchases), up to an anniversary year maximum accumulation of $75. Anniversary year means the year beginning with your account open date through the first statement date after your account open date anniversary, and the 12 monthly billing cycles after that each year.
... View more
Hello Community Southwest:
Here's the second of two Photo Trip Reports in July. Here's the link to the first one.
This time, it was SAN-SMF w/ a same day return flight. This was the first of three roundtrip flights that I booked during June's 40%-off sale. Here are some of the fruits from that promo:
SAN's Terminal 1 Artwork...Gone?
Once I got into SAN T1, I've immediately noticed that two T1 art pieces by artist Miki Iwasaki were gone: Signalsape which once hung on the wall next to the flight status monitors in the baggage claim area,
and Astralgraph that used to provide some nice decor to the Landside food court area.
All I know for sure is the "what". They're not in T1. I do not have any solid information on the "why" or where the artwork is now other than a separate artist had his recently approved artwork removed from T2 per a 7/25 story published by PBS. SAN's new T1 is still well more than a year from opening; thus likely too early to move the artwork. If I find out anything, I'll let you know...If anybody knows anything for sure on this (no speculation, please), let me know.
On the bright side, the 737-700 bird at Gate 11 bound to SMF gets serviced, viewable from the Landside Food Court...
When crossing the TSA Checkpoint into airside for this flight, I noticed something that rarely happens but sometimes does: The queue line for the TSA PreCheck lane appearing longer than the Standard Screening lane. In fact, the PreCheck line was backed up to the ticket counters:
I've opted to use the PreCheck lane anyway...and I was glad I did...TSA did a great job in keeping this line flowing because it took only 6 minutes to get from the end of this "long" line to the ID check booth. I did see some people in front of me make their way to the Standard Screening lane but that line's flow was much slower. In fact, I passed them up by the time I was cleared to go to the x-ray machine area. They were still getting their ID's checked and had to line up to go through the rest of Standard Screening with their shoes and belts off.
Quick Tip if you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck: Don't let a longer PreCheck line fool you. It almost always flows much better than General...Ride it out so you can enjoy PreCheck's benefits. As I said, getting past the ID check booth took 6 minutes with a total screening time of about 8 minutes.
SAN Airside:
On time and ready to roll...And yes, the weather was a cool 59 degrees at the state Capitol despite a heat dome over much of the southwest USA during this trip.
Catalina Island shortly after the 10k feet mark
A quiet remote "office space" at SMF to get some work done before I head into downtown for my appointment via public transit.
Return
Now, this is a genuine public transit limo tour!
Good to know! Arrivals passengers are allowed to be picked up at upstairs departures level at SMF!
What?...Another closure? SMF Terminal B's Landside Quiet Room closed due to...?
Good News--The next five flights at Gate B17 including my return trip are all on time! No delays whatsoever. Somebody tell the press.
Now this is the best in Free Flight Entertainment, straight from the window...and the waterfalls are still fully gushing!
... View more
@vollyhawk wrote:
Very good data, and I agree with almost all of what you said; however,
A. Southwest could make this better with a software change by cutting off Early Bird purchases when all A Group boarding passes are gone.
-or-
B. Allow Early Bird people who have paid real $$ to board before family boarding.
It is that simple, but they won't because this is about income via the EB fees collected.
Purchasing EB amounts to "gambling". You are paying money and hoping you get an A Boarding pass and you have no idea if you will or not. Why should there be a gamble? S/W should just insure that you'll go as soon as possible over anyone else who didn't pay extra.
I also didn't touch on gate agents enforcement of Southwest policy for family boarding, although many others do on here.
Gate agents often send those needing extra time to get down the gangway first. Even before A Boarding. They also do not enforce the family boarding policy of two adults only with the child or children under 7. I see huge families line up, aunts, uncles, etc.
I just don't believe the company should sell Early Bird boarding if you don't board before families holding C boarding passes. If families want to sit close to each other, then they should have to buy that option.
I can see the idea to cap EB sales but I don't think the airline is going to consider changing this policy as the primary benefit of EB is "Automatic check-in" per the Marketing language on their website; the second being "Better boarding position" with the statement that an A-position is not guaranteed. There are passengers who like the convenience of having the airline do an auto-check in and are willing to pay for it. Capping EB sales would alienate this group.
Even in my "You're going to (destination)" confirmation emails, the marketing message for EB is "Don't miss out on automatic check-in: EarlyBird Check-In reserves your boarding position at 36 hours before your flight, earlier than regular check-in."
As mentioned, I don't opt for EB because I have the ability to check in at the 24 hour mark and can purchase Upgraded Boarding if I get a deep-in-the-B boarding position.
I believe Family Boarding is where it needs to be and left as-is because it involves traveling with children ages six and under; it is best that there be enough open seats on the plane where the child can sit together with at least one of the accompanying adults.
If you're looking for a solid A-position, I would suggest going forward if you book WGA or WGA+ (and if you're able to check in manually at the 24 hour mark) to opt for Upgraded Boarding once you check in instead of buying EB.
Purchasing for Upgraded Boarding opens at the 24 hour mark to sell the remaining A1-A15 slots that were not sold as part of Business Select. It does cap out once all of the A1-A15 slots are sold. It's a little more pricey than EB and the benefit is per flight segment, but if there are spots available, you'll be in the A1-A15 group. I've always been able to snag a solid position at the 24 mark, even for full flights headed in the peak travel direction (e.g. SAN to LAS on a Friday). Just keep in mind that Upgraded Boarding is not refundable and any passenger-initiated same-day flight changes or standby's forfeits the purchase.
https://www.southwest.com/upgraded-boarding/
I would also still send your original letter to Southwest and they should also be able to provide you with some official information and tips on these two services.
Also, being a frequent flyer, do you think you may hit A-List before 2024? If so, that's another option as you'll be ahead of both the EB and Anytime fare group in terms of boarding position if you buy your flight at least 36 hours in advance. You'll also be able to board in between the A and B groups as a worst case scenario.
Hope this helps!
... View more
@vollyhawk wrote:
I am a frequent S/W flier. Despite the complaints I'm going to make, I think that S/W is one of the best airlines to fly. That being said, there is a problem with the Early Bird system in general. I understand that on popular routes (i.e. Balt to Orlando) the flights are always full and the Early Bird policy does not guarantee a person to be in the A Boarding Group. The boarding policy; however, should be changed so that After the A-Group Boards:after A1-A60 board, the next group to board should be military (with ID) and Early Bird customers BEFORE family boarding. Why? Because family boarders traditionally have C Boarding passes and they did not pay Southwest Airlines a dime to board early. Early Bird customers did pay extra and should receive the benefit of those fees. Holding a B Boarding pass and then having to wait for family boarding when you are heading to a Disney destination is worthless. Either refund the money or allow Early Bird to board before family boarding. It makes sense. It is fair. If you are worried about families finding seats together, then limit the number of Early Bird tickets so someone can't even purchase one if they are filling up the plane too much.
Hello-
I would forward your suggestion directly to Southwest as this forum is Customer-to-Customer.
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
However, most likely I don't think the airline is going to change this rule (I could be wrong).
I can certainly understand the frustration of buying Early Bird Check-in (EB) only to be placed well into the B Group. This forum is flooded with all kinds of EB commentary.
Usually a deep B assignment with an EB purchase means several folks are buying EB. While I don't normally buy EB (I usually opt for Upgraded Boarding and buy it at the 24 hour mark), I've experienced similar situations firsthand when checking into a full flight at the 24 hour mark with a WGA+ fare only to be assigned way deep into B. Other times, I can snag an A30 or better.
Keep in mind of a few things of EB:
Provided that you bought your flight at least 36 hours in advance and did not do any same-day flight changes on the day of travel, one key perk of EB is your boarding spot is held at the 36 hour mark which means you do not have to check in at the 24 hour mark to claim a spot. You will still be ahead of those (like me) who need to manually check in at the 24 hour mark to secure a boarding spot.
Per an official Southwest Tweet reply, here is the order that Southwest assigns at the 36 hour mark: 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://twitter.com/SouthwestAir/status/1594125108129722370
Note that A-List Preferred, A-List gets their Priority Boarding positions assigned after Business Select as part of their elite status followed by Anytime Fares.
EB spots are assigned in the order of purchase. First to buy get the first spots.
After the Preboard and A-Group Boards, there are several groups that board before the B-Group boards: A-List Preferred/A-List not in an A-Group, Family Boarding, Active Duty Military, Disability Passengers Needing Extra Time
I think if EB were added to this list, there would be a flood of passengers lining up at the gate without any sequential order; hence, I don't think Southwest is going to change this policy.
Keep in mind that if you hold a B30 or better position, you'll most likely still be able to find 2 seats together toward the rear of the plane (both window and aisle options) with available space in the overhead bins.
... View more
08-01-2023
10:16 AM
08-01-2023
10:16 AM
Hello Everybody-
For the record, the baggage belt issue at LAS was actually caused by a computer reboot failure after LAS Airport made an upgrade to its baggage system according to the local press. The outage mainly affected Southwest and American Airlines flying out of LAS on 6/14 and that an alternative baggage screening method had to be put into place for outbound bags. It doesn't appear to be Southwest's fault. However to be fair to the original poster, I was not there to witness how the airline agents handled the situation nor how the staff transported luggage nor how the CSA's handled the rebooking of missed flights. Nevertheless, it was actually great to hear that Southwest still offered the LUV Voucher for the excessive delay.
@Sifossedio I would still try to write an email to Southwest on the damaged luggage. They should have record that you attempted to rectify this with the prior CSA's after you got home. Just make it clear that you did not catch the damage on your bag until after you got home. Although the cash compensation to pay for replacement luggage may be out of the question given their 4 hour policy, they may be able to offer you some other perk in return for your business for your next trip to LAS. I would take the second LUV Voucher if they offered it again to you and maybe use the extra balance toward upgrading to an Anytime or even Business Select fare class for your next LAS trip which will give you a nice point boost, a much better boarding position, and access to the Priority Express Lanes at both the check in counter and at the TSA Checkpoint.
Email Southwest:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us
... View more
@Yvonneh12 wrote:
In the past I was able to watch inflight movies with my Android tablet but on a flight in May it didn’t work. Error message said I needed to upgrade my tablet but it was already upgraded. Has anybody else had this problem? I have a flight coming up next month and I always look forward to watching movies during the flight.
Hello!
I've never had this symptom but the airline's help portal has some good information published that may help you determine cause of this error. This is straight from:
https://www.southwest.com/help/on-the-plane/inflight-wifi
The Inflight Entertainment Portal is supported on WiFi-enabled devices (802.11g/n) that meet the minimum requirements below. Browser support is limited to most recent version in addition to one previous version. Other devices and browsers may provide limited functionality. Please note that utilizing privacy browser modes may impact product availability.
Live TV: Android, Android 8.0+, Google Chrome
Movies & On-Demand TV: Android, Android 8.0+, Google Chrome
I would confirm you're using the latest version of Chrome to access the Entertainment Portal that is not in Incognito mode. Also confirm your device has Android 8.0+ or higher installed. If your device meets these requirements, I would give Southwest Customer Service a call to report your problem. If the error you got also had an error code and you still have it, be sure to include it too. Most likely, the CSA may not have a answer for you immediately but should be able to report it to IT to have it looked at in time for your next flight:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us
... View more
07-31-2023
11:55 AM
2 Loves
@jeronamoe31 wrote:
It’s so ridiculously hot on this flight. Miserable! My kids were crying because it was so uncomfortable. Horrible experience
Hello-
I flew a number of times on Southwest this summer including a flight from SMF during the SoCal heat wave. It did get warm on the tarmac since a number of the window shades on the sunny-side of the plane were left up during the crew change/boarding. However, the A/C usually kicked in at full throttle as soon as the engines turned on, plane pushed back from the gate, and were on our way...
However, it sounds like the A/C on your flight was not operating as it should be or set at a high temperature. As @floridaguy pointed, this forum is Customer-to-Customer. I would report this incident to Southwest Customer Service so they can properly respond:
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
In your inquiry, I would include your flight details so that the airline can investigate the cause of the flight not being comfortable for you en-route. Also include in the description whether you inquired with the Flight Attendants on this and what their responses were. Also indicate whether you had your air vents above your seat opened (I assume they were). If it turns out the A/C on the plane was in fact not operating as it should be or was set at an abnormally high temperature, you may be due a LUV Voucher.
Hope this helps!
... View more
07-31-2023
11:35 AM
07-31-2023
11:35 AM
@Sasgirl wrote:
This might be a weird question. If I want to upgrade my boarding position would the credit card I used for purchasing the tickets be used or would I be able to enter a new one?
I'm a frequent buyer of Upgraded Boarding and have the option to use a different credit card to purchase it when I purchase after checking in via the Southwest website. I assume the same applies when checking in and purchasing via the App. Note that there is no option to buy this option with Rapid Rewards points, LUV Vouchers, Flight Credits or Southwest Gift Card.
... View more
@LWP wrote:
GM!
I travel a lot—at least every week— and I’m a SWA loyalist.
I heard something new today from an attendant: it’s a Federal Aviation Regulation, (FAR) that roller boards must be wheels in or out in the front bin.
A courtesy? Yes, absolutely. Especially on a full flight. But this flight had at least 100 opens.
I just acknowledged the request, and sat a couple of rows back. These attendants deal with enough idiots, no need to add to the stress.
BUT… I am curious, I checked the FARs and didn’t see mention of this.
Does anyone know?
Hello-
I didn't see anything specific defined by FAA nor TSA's What Can I Bring webpage regarding transporting roller boards as carry-on (or skateboards) other than the airline may have a defined policy if the item is carry-on. I'm not sure if your roller board is similar to a skatebard or if it is more like a square-shaped roller cart. Here's TSA's rule:
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/skateboards
Anyway, Southwest does have a defined policy with the transport of these types of items (not sure if your roller board fits the description as a skateboard though):
https://www.southwest.com/help/baggage/special-baggage-sports-equipment
Skateboard (manual or non-electric) may be substituted for a carryon or a checked bag. If the skateboard fits under the seat, it does not need to be in a bag or covered, but it does have to be stowed with the wheels up so that it doesn't roll. If stowed in an overhead bin, a skateboard must be stowed with the wheels up and needs to be in a bag or have the wheels covered (trash bag is acceptable) so as not to damage other articles.
It's possible there was extra room in the overhead bin toward the front of the plane for this flight which may have led the FA's to make the decision to have you stow your roller board there for easy access in case it shifts during flight to prevent damage to other items in there, but I could be wrong. However, I think the FA's were simply enforcing airline carry-on policy, not FAA regulations. The FAA does limit passengers to one carry-on bag and one personal item and Southwest defines the maximum dimensions for both:
Carry-on Bag: 24” (L) + 16” (W) + 10” (H) Max
Personal Item: Personal items must fit in the 16.25” (L) + 13.5” (W) + 8” (H) space under the seat (smallest available length defined)
https://www.southwest.com/help/baggage/carryon-baggage
Since this forum is customer-to-customer, I would clarify this with Southwest Customer Service to be sure.
https://www.southwest.com/html/contact-us/
... View more
07-27-2023
10:24 AM
07-27-2023
10:24 AM
Also locked in a September rountrip to LAS for $49 each way yesterday before the sale expired. However, I had to book WGA to get the best of this deal (I usually book WGA+ so I have free sameday flight change/standby benefit).
Here were the quoted prices that I got for the SAN-LAS flight. It was for an off-peak middle-of-the-week trip:
During the 29% off Sale:
Business Select: $249
Anytime: $199
WGA+: $111 (29% off $149)
WGA: $49 (29% off $63)
As of today 7/27 after the sale, I did another price check:
Business Select: $189
Anytime: $139
WGA+: $79
WGA: $64
The 29% deal for the SAN-LAS trip was certainly meant for the WGA fare. The other fare classes were marked up...
Safe travels!
... View more
@LizzyLiz81 wrote:
Mr. Stan Mr. Stan!! This THOUGHTFUL, hilarious, knowledgeable, caring man truly deserves a raise. I’m saying it louder for the folks in the BIKE! Says the Hewitt family! On July 22, 2023 @ bout 1920, we were on a flight home. Earlier, we scooped our 15y/o SonShine up, who just completed the Marine Military Academy. My Husband & I fly often for business but flying home this trip was our kids 1st flight! Mr. Stan & his crew Ms. Aleshia & Ms. Trisha made it EXTRA special! We truly Pre~Sha~It🩵 We’ve never flown Southwest before, normally United but we couldn’t have ASKED for a better experience!! Geesh!! Listen, I give credit where credit is due!! Mr. Stan deserves THAT & more
🤗✈️🤣🫶🏽
Wishing Mr. Stan and his grand~babies all Blessings🙏🏽🙏🏽
•Superb Customer Service❕
•Seats super comfy
•Leg room 👍🏽
•Snacks seasoned
•Free Wifi
•LOADS of free movies
•Temp perfect
Aaalll this for a GOOD price! Just sayin!
Thanks for sharing! Since this is customer-to-customer forum, would you do Mr. Stan one more favor so Southwest staff can acknowledge his praise due.
Copy and paste your post to:
https://support.southwest.com/email-us/s/
That way, Customer Service can receive and process your letter. Glad you had a memorable experience with your son's first flight!
... View more
My understanding has long been that the seat "legs" that divide the three sections are the designated "borderlines" with aisle seat having the most narrow area marked by the bar loop beneath the armrest that "borders" this area with the center aisleway.
In this pic, I've taken a window seat near the front (I think it was the 5th row). Should I have a middle seat neighbor, my feet and bag need to stay where they are given that this space is for their personal or small carryon bag. That's their space. It doesn't hurt to politely ask if you can use any leftover space in this area for legroom but this space does belong to the person seated there and their decision of whether or not it can be shared to another passenger stands.
Note that the overall width beneath all three seats is a bit smaller toward the front of the plane too as the cabin as a whole is narrower (for all fleets: 737-700, 800, MAX8). If you're looking for some extra inches under the aisle seat, go for a seat in the center or the back of the plane. Also don't forget that if you're flight is not full and there's extra space in the overhead bins, you should be able to stow your personal item in there too which should provide for some extra legroom.
... View more
@Sgbryan wrote:
I called in to upgrade my trip. There was an error with processing. So, I called back and was told that my trip had been cancelled due to a error in processing. They did not call me! I called them. Had I not, I would have been at the airport with a cancelled trip. I had to pay for the upgrade again and received boarding passes that had not been upgraded. I called back in and was told that I would receive an email, which I have not and the refund would take a billing cycle. I am extremely surprised in the lack of empathy that each representative had, the inability to take ownership for their mistake and the lack of communication. I have never experienced anything like this. And, yes... It was every person I spoke with. If I have a choice, I would not recommend this company for anything. Especially if you are looking to enjoy a vacation.
Hello!
I'm not sure what exactly you experienced as the description of the incident is a bit broad. I find it highly unusual for a computer glitch to cancel a flight reservation with multiple Southwest CSA's not being able to restore or rebook it for you. A few questions that may help:
Was your original flight reservation booked directly through Southwest? When you attempted to upgrade your trip, did you contact Southwest directly to request the upgrade and what upgrade were you attempting to apply to your reservation (i.e. Fare class upgrade, Early Bird Check-In, Upgraded Boarding)?
What exactly happened when you received word that the there was an "error in processing" followed by the reservation being cancelled? Describe the sequence of events.
Where there any other possible circumstances that would have flagged this reservation for "error in processing" cancellation during the upgrade process (e.g. open issue/dispute with the form of payment used for the original reservation, reservation conflict with another booking, etc)? The airline should be able to provide a more specific reason.
I would try contacting Southwest again on this to see if you are due a LUV Voucher to compensate for the difference in the rebooked fare for this incident.
... View more
@SoCalFlyer97 wrote:
SoCalFlyer97 LUVs these kinds of sales! Reviewing my bookings...
Well it looks like my existing WGA+ reservations for August booked during June's 40% Off sale turned out to be the better deal.
However, I have some new business to take care of in the Bay area later in the fall and was able to lock in a good WGA+ round trip intra-state flight for $39 each way from SAN. Booked a hotel for $125 after taxes/fees through SW Hotels with a 2,000 Rapid Reward return (and free cancelation up to 48 hours prior). Got some good deals for this trip. Using public transit plus the hotel's free shuttle service for ground transport.
Happy bookings!
... View more
07-25-2023
10:32 AM
07-25-2023
10:32 AM
@cokw wrote:
Is the seat pitch such that one can actually use a laptop in flight? My experience with both UAL and Lufthansa was that you had to get extra legroom seats in order for there to be enough space to open the laptop enough to be able to type and see the screen. What is it like on SW.
In crude graphics, those airlines' basic economy class permitted the laptop to open like _\
before hitting theseat in front. And I need the laptop to be able to be positioned like _/ to be usable.
Southwest has a decent seat pitch. That being said, I think it depends on the size of your device.
I use an HP ZBook 15 G2 15.6" for work which is an older model and had to pull it out to take care of an urgent task during a recent short-haul flight.
The laptop fits nicely on the tray table that allowed for typing but because of its size, the lid/screen needed to be oriented approxiately 90 degrees, much better than the acute angle that you illustrated but not quite at your desired obtuse angle which means my screen was facing below my face. My model laptop also has a narrower viewing angle which means a "darkening" effect on the screen whenever one looks from above its center point.
I resolved this by not using the tray table and tilting the computer on my lap to more of a V-shape in a 90 degree angle so the screen is oriented toward my face better. Typing was a bit awkward but I was able to get my work done.
My answer: It depends on the size of your laptop and its viewing angle specifications of whether there is screen darkening when not viewed at directly. I would say that if its 15" or less, it may be safe to say that you'll be able to position the laptop at least 90 degrees.
Here are some screenshots of my seat area from some recent flights aboard both the 737-700 and 737-800 fleets if that helps:
... View more
@dfwskier wrote:
Intra California as low as $29
To/From California 29% off
SoCalFlyer97 LUVs these kinds of sales! Reviewing my bookings...
... View more
@Austin_pert98 wrote:
Hey all,
Yesterday I was traveling Flight 278 FLL-BNA. Delayed roughly 30 minutes at time of boarding. Boarding proceeds seemingly normally. But once the plane is fully boarded, the cabin door isn't closed and nothing seems to be proceeding in regards to our departure, and this remains so for at least a half hour before we're told something by the captain something along the lines that during boarding, two agents were simultaneously working on boarding the aircraft (?) and that a passenger's reservation was somehow invalidated. In order to leave, the passenger's itinerary had to be rebuilt in the system. The pilots and flight attendants claimed they had never seen this sort of issue ever before. We ultimately sat at the gate fully boarded for roughly 90 minutes before this issue was resolved, and left about two hours late. Flight itself went fine, other than a 20ish-minute wait for a gate at BNA.
Anyone here familiar with this type of issue? Or why we had to solve this seemingly non-safety issue before leaving?
Thanks!
I never experienced this specifically but this appears to be an IT glitch that could have caused the corrupted "invalid" reservation data (this is a guess; I could be wrong but this is an educated guess). Having some basic background in IT and working with company ERP software at my work, I understand the possibility of an extended gate delay to repair this passenger's reservation as there could be a number of factors as to the cause of a passenger's booking data to become corrupted on the network.
Whenever I board flights, after the gate CSA scans my boarding pass, I usually listen for the high-pitch barcode beep followed by the low-pitch "ding" that validates the reservation with my name showing on the small screen on the scanner. Not sure if or how this happens when two gate CSA's scan tickets, another situation that I have not yet experienced.
If I had to guess, I would hypothesize that an IT technician needed to be dispatched to the gate to diagnose the cause of the reservation invalidation, repair and "rebook" the passenger's reservation data with the assistance of Southwest's IT department. Hence, a possible reason of why the plane was held. Since I wasn't there, I could be dead wrong on my theory but this is my educated guess.
Either way, I would follow up with Southwest Customer Service to see if this extended delay qualifies for a Luv Voucher for your trip as this appears to be an airline issue.
... View more
Loves Given To