The Southwest Airlines boarding process is unique compared to most other airlines, and understanding it can make your travel experience much smoother. Southwest has an open seating policy, which means that after you board the aircraft, you can select any available seat rather than having allocated seats.

You will be given a position number (1–60) and a boarding group (A, B, or C) when you check in, which you can do up to 24 hours before to departure. Your boarding position improves the earlier you check in. A1–A60 passengers board first, followed by B1–B60 and C1–C60. Higher boarding priority is frequently granted to those who purchase Business Select or EarlyBird Check-In tickets.

After Group A, families with children under six and those in need of additional help can board early. Better seating options are guaranteed if you get to the gate early because there are no seat assignments.

In short, the Southwest Airlines boarding process is efficient and fair—as long as you check in on time and stay aware of your group number, you’ll be ready to board with ease.