I have never had a problem with Southwest's unique boarding method, but it unnecessarailyy complicates travel for family and friends who are often unable to board together. Soutwest does not allow people traveling together but with separate confimation numbers ( e.g., those on companion fares, people flying on Rapid Rewards points, and friends) to board together. This, for instance, often leaves me and my wife forced to board separately. This is unacceptable. Southwest should not be in the business of separating loved ones and friends, especially those passengers who are being provided a perk (such as companion fare and reward travelers). It also creates uncomfortable situations on the plane, when a first-boarding passenger saves seats and shoos away passengers who board before their travelling companions. The solution to this problem seems simple. Why not allow passengers to go online and link up to four (2? 6?) confirmation numbers that will be assigned boarding positions as a group? This would allow anybody with a different confirmation number to board with a family member or friend with whom they are traveling. C'mon Southwest! You can improve your boarding procedures!
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