Last Updated on July 31, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Southwest Airlines remains a practical choice for many U.S. travelers, but the experience is different from the Southwest people remember. The airline now uses assigned seating, charges many passengers for checked bags, and sells four fare bundles with different seat, boarding, refund, and loyalty benefits. Its broad route network and well-rated economy service remain strengths, while recent punctuality data and added fees are important drawbacks to consider.
Quick Answer
Southwest Airlines can be a good choice for U.S. leisure travelers who value a broad domestic network, simple fares, friendly economy service, and Rapid Rewards. It is less compelling for travelers who need top-tier punctuality or free checked bags on basic fares, because assigned seating and bag fees now apply.
Key Takeaways
- Southwest ended open seating on January 27, 2026, and now assigns seats while using boarding Groups 1–8.
- Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred passengers generally pay for checked bags; Choice Extra includes two free checked bags.
- DOT data show mixed punctuality: Southwest was on time for 71.9% of reported flights in May 2026 and 76.8% from January through May.
- The airline operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet and offers more than 100 destinations, with its strongest coverage in the United States.
- Southwest is best for travelers who can use its nonstop routes, Rapid Rewards benefits, flexible higher fares, or status and credit-card perks.
Is Southwest Airlines a Good Airline in 2026?
Yes, Southwest can still be a good airline, especially for economy travelers who find a convenient nonstop route and compare the total trip cost before booking. Its strengths include a large U.S. network, no cancellation fee, assigned seating on most fares, free entertainment on eligible aircraft, and a straightforward loyalty program.
However, Southwest is no longer automatically the best-value airline for travelers with checked luggage. Its lowest three fare bundles generally charge for the first and second checked bags, and its Basic fare has significant restrictions. Recent federal data also show that its on-time performance can trail several major competitors.
| Main Advantages | Main Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Broad U.S. route network with many nonstop options | Checked-bag fees on Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred |
| Assigned seats available with most fares | Basic seats are assigned at check-in unless another benefit applies |
| No cancellation fee when applicable rules are followed | Basic flight credits expire sooner and changes require a fare upgrade |
| Strong economy-cabin satisfaction results | Recent on-time performance has been inconsistent |
| Useful Rapid Rewards and Companion Pass benefits | Limited long-haul international flying on Southwest-operated aircraft |
Pro Tip: Compare the final price after adding checked bags, seat upgrades, and any fare difference. A higher Southwest fare or a competing airline may cost less once all optional charges are included.
Southwest Fare Types, Seats, and Boarding
Southwest’s current fare bundles are Basic, Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra. The airline transitioned from open seating to assigned seating on January 27, 2026. Most passengers can choose a seat during booking, but Basic travelers normally receive a Standard seat assignment at check-in.
Southwest now offers three seat categories:
- Standard: Standard-legroom seats toward the back of the aircraft.
- Preferred: Standard-legroom seats closer to the front.
- Extra Legroom: Seats near the front and in exit rows with additional pitch. Southwest says the increase can be up to five inches on a 737-700, although the amount varies by aircraft.
The current system uses boarding Groups 1–8 rather than the former A, B, and C groups. Boarding priority depends on fare, seat location, Rapid Rewards status, and eligible credit-card benefits. Full details are available on Southwest’s assigned-seating page.
| Fare | Seat and Boarding | Rapid Rewards | Flexibility | Checked Bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | Standard seat assigned at check-in; last to board | 2 points per dollar | Nonrefundable; six-month credit; changes require fare upgrade | Fees generally apply |
| Choice | Choose a Standard seat; general boarding | 6 points per dollar | Transferable 12-month credit; same-day options | Fees generally apply |
| Choice Preferred | Choose a Preferred or Standard seat; Groups 3–4 | 10 points per dollar | Refundable when canceled on time; same-day options | Fees generally apply |
| Choice Extra | Choose an Extra Legroom or other available seat; Group 1 | 14 points per dollar | Refundable when canceled on time; same-day options | Two free checked bags |
Note: Families on the same confirmation number receive the same boarding group. With Basic fares, Southwest assigns seats at check-in or the gate and says it will work to seat children age 12 or younger next to at least one accompanying adult.
Safety and Maintenance Standards
Southwest is a large U.S. scheduled airline operating under Federal Aviation Administration requirements for aircraft maintenance, dispatch, crew training, operating procedures, and duty limits. Its filings state that its aircraft operations and maintenance are subject to FAA jurisdiction.
Southwest also maintains an internal safety-management program, but no major airline’s record should be described as risk-free. The National Transportation Safety Board documented a passenger fatality on Southwest Flight 1380 in April 2018 after an engine failure damaged a cabin window. Eight passengers received minor injuries. In 2005, Southwest Flight 1248 overran a runway at Chicago Midway and struck vehicles on a road, killing a child in one vehicle.
These serious events deserve accurate acknowledgment, but an airline’s historical accident count alone cannot predict the safety of an individual future flight. Current regulatory compliance, maintenance, crew training, aircraft condition, weather, and operational decisions all matter.
Warning: Be cautious with articles that call an airline “the safest” without explaining the timeframe, data set, accident definition, and comparison method. Such rankings are not a guarantee of future performance.
On-Time Performance and Flight Delays
Southwest’s punctuality varies significantly by month, airport, route, weather, and air-traffic conditions. The U.S. Department of Transportation counts a flight as on time when it reaches the gate less than 15 minutes after its scheduled arrival.
In the DOT’s July 2026 Air Travel Consumer Report, which covers May 2026 operations, Southwest recorded a 71.9% on-time arrival rate. That placed it eighth among nine reporting marketing carriers. From January through May 2026, Southwest’s rate was 76.8%, ranking fourth.
Southwest was on time for 71.9% of reported flights in May 2026, compared with 77.8% across the reporting carriers in the DOT table.
These figures do not mean every Southwest route performs the same way. A morning nonstop may have a different reliability pattern from an evening connecting itinerary. Travelers can reduce disruption risk by choosing an earlier departure, allowing more connection time, checking the weather at both airports, and reviewing the performance indicator displayed for a specific flight during booking.
During a disruption, use the Southwest app or website for flight status and rebooking options. Keep receipts when an airline-controlled cancellation or delay causes reasonable expenses, and review Southwest’s current reimbursement policy before submitting a request.
Customer Service and Satisfaction
Customer service is one of Southwest’s stronger areas, although personal experiences vary during normal operations and disruptions. The 2026 J.D. Power North America Airline Satisfaction Study ranked Southwest first in the economy and basic-economy segment for the fifth consecutive year, with a score of 670.
The study supports Southwest’s reputation for friendly economy service, but it should not be treated as a complete measure of punctuality, baggage costs, route convenience, or every customer-service interaction. A passenger whose flight operates normally may have a very different opinion from someone seeking rebooking, a refund, or delayed-bag assistance during a major disruption.
Southwest’s app supports booking management, boarding passes, flight updates, and other day-of-travel tasks. Digital tools can make routine trips easier, but access to a knowledgeable employee remains important when a reservation involves irregular operations, disability accommodations, an international itinerary, or separate tickets.
Fleet Age and Reliability
Southwest operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet. Its 2025 Form 10-K listed 803 aircraft at December 31, 2025, with an overall average age of 11 years. This is different from the original table, which incorrectly included Airbus A320 and Embraer E190 aircraft.
| Aircraft Model | Aircraft at Year-End 2025 | Average Age | Seats After 2026 Cabin Changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737-700 | 305 | 20 years | 137 |
| Boeing 737-800 | 198 | 10 years | 175 |
| Boeing 737-8 | 300 | 3 years | 175 |
| Total | 803 | 11 years overall | Varies by model |
An all-737 fleet can simplify pilot training, maintenance planning, spare parts, and aircraft substitutions. It also means Southwest does not offer the variety of widebody aircraft, lie-flat seats, or long-haul premium cabins found at large international network airlines.
Aircraft age should not be used as a safety score by itself. Older aircraft can operate safely when maintained according to approved programs, while newer aircraft still require inspections, repairs, software updates, and regulatory compliance. Fleet reliability also cannot be represented responsibly by an unsupported percentage for each model.
Route Network and Destination Options
Southwest’s network is one of its biggest advantages. Its 2025 annual filing listed 117 destinations in 42 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and ten near-international countries at year-end. The airline is especially useful for domestic trips, Hawaii travel, and selected destinations in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Southwest also has airline partnerships that can extend booking possibilities beyond the destinations it serves with its own aircraft. Partner itineraries may have different baggage, seating, earning, and operating-carrier rules, so passengers should check each flight segment carefully.
Because routes change throughout the year, use Southwest’s current route map rather than assuming a destination listed in an older review still has nonstop service. A large network does not guarantee that every city pair operates daily or year-round.
Baggage Handling and Lost Luggage
Southwest no longer includes two free checked bags with every ticket. For U.S. mainland travel booked, ticketed, or changed on or after April 9, 2026, the standard first-bag fee is $45 and the second-bag fee is $55 for Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares.
Choice Extra includes two free checked bags. A-List Preferred members also receive two free checked bags, while A-List members and qualifying Rapid Rewards credit cardmembers receive a first-bag benefit. Active-duty military customers and some other travelers may qualify for additional exceptions. Partner-operated flights can follow different baggage rules.
Southwest continues to allow one carry-on bag and one personal item at no charge. Its published maximum carry-on size is 24 by 16 by 10 inches, including wheels and handles.
DOT data for May 2026 show that Southwest mishandled 26,522 of 8,501,637 enplaned bags, equal to 0.31 mishandled bags per 100 enplaned bags. That ranked fourth among the nine marketing carriers listed in the report and improved from 0.40 per 100 in May 2025.
Warning: Bag fees, limits, exemptions, and partner-flight rules can change. Check the baggage total shown for your specific reservation before paying for the ticket.
Use digital bag tracking when available, keep the bag receipt, place contact information inside and outside the suitcase, and keep medicine, identification, keys, valuable electronics, and essential overnight items in your carry-on. Report a delayed or damaged checked bag before leaving the airport whenever possible.
Change, Cancellation, and Flight Credit Rules
Southwest promotes no cancellation fees, but the fare rules still matter. Passengers normally must cancel at least 10 minutes before the original departure time to protect the value of the ticket. A no-show can result in the loss of funds or points.
- Basic: Nonrefundable. A qualifying flight credit expires six months after the original booking and ticketing date. Voluntary flight changes require an upgrade to Choice, Choice Preferred, or Choice Extra.
- Choice: Nonrefundable, but an eligible Transferable Flight Credit generally expires 12 months after booking and ticketing. Regular changes are allowed with any fare difference.
- Choice Preferred: Refundable when canceled within the required timeframe. It includes Choice benefits and earlier boarding.
- Choice Extra: Refundable when canceled within the required timeframe and includes the highest points rate, Extra Legroom seat selection, and two free checked bags.
Choice, Choice Preferred, and Choice Extra include same-day change or standby options subject to space, deadlines, route rules, taxes, and fees. A replacement flight may not include the same seat or boarding position.
Inflight Amenities and Comfort
Southwest operates a single-cabin service with Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom seats rather than separate first-class and economy cabins. Travelers who want more space can buy or receive an Extra Legroom seat when availability and fare or loyalty benefits permit.
According to Southwest’s current inflight experience information, free Wi-Fi is offered to Rapid Rewards members on designated Wi-Fi-equipped aircraft where available. Starlink is available on select aircraft as the airline expands the system. Availability and performance can differ by aircraft and route.
Passengers can use a phone, tablet, or laptop for eligible movies, television, and other entertainment. Southwest does not provide seatback screens, so bring a charged device and headphones. Downloading entertainment before departure provides a backup when onboard connectivity or licensing limits content.
Complimentary nonalcoholic beverages are normally offered, and snacks are served on eligible flights. Service can be reduced or suspended because of turbulence, flight length, catering, or operational conditions. Premium drinks are available for purchase, with selected fare and status benefits on qualifying flights.
Loyalty Program and Rewards
Southwest’s frequent-flyer program is called Rapid Rewards. Members earn points from qualifying flights and participating partners. Current flight earning rates are tied to the fare purchased:
- Basic: 2 points per qualifying dollar
- Choice: 6 points per qualifying dollar
- Choice Preferred: 10 points per qualifying dollar
- Choice Extra: 14 points per qualifying dollar
Southwest states that Rapid Rewards points do not expire and reward seats have no blackout dates, although the number of points required varies with the flight and fare. Reward availability, partner itineraries, taxes, and program rules still apply.
A-List and A-List Preferred status add benefits such as earlier boarding, seating privileges, earning bonuses, standby access, and checked-bag allowances. Eligible benefits can extend to additional passengers on the same reservation.
The Companion Pass is particularly valuable for travelers who qualify and frequently travel with the same person. It allows the member to designate a companion who can accompany the member on eligible Southwest flights for required taxes and fees, subject to current program terms. Review all current requirements on the official Rapid Rewards page.
Overall Reputation and Industry Rankings
Southwest’s overall reputation is mixed but generally positive among economy travelers. J.D. Power ranked it highest in the economy and basic-economy segment in 2026 for the fifth consecutive year. That result supports its reputation for staff service, trust, and economy value.
Operational performance presents a less consistent picture. Southwest’s year-to-date on-time arrival rate through May 2026 was close to the industry total, but its May result was below the reporting-carrier average. Travelers should therefore weigh customer-service rankings alongside route-specific schedules, current baggage charges, seat costs, and disruption risk.
Southwest Is a Good Fit For
- Travelers with a convenient Southwest nonstop
- Economy passengers who value friendly service and straightforward cabin products
- Rapid Rewards members, Companion Pass users, and eligible cardmembers
- Passengers who can use Choice Extra or status benefits for free bags and better seats
- Travelers who value cancellation flexibility and can follow the fare deadlines
Southwest May Not Be the Best Fit For
- Basic-fare travelers checking one or two bags
- Passengers seeking a lie-flat premium cabin or a traditional international business class
- Travelers who need a global network entirely operated by one airline
- Passengers whose priority is consistently top-ranked punctuality
- Travelers who do not want to use a personal device for inflight entertainment
Travelers who use a CPAP device should also plan for approved carry-on storage, battery rules, and power availability. This guide to the best travel CPAP machines can help you compare portable options before a trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southwest Airlines known for?
Southwest is known for its broad U.S. route network, economy-focused service, Rapid Rewards program, single Boeing 737 fleet, and friendly staff. It was also known for open seating and two free checked bags, but those policies changed in 2026.
Is Southwest Airlines a good airline to fly with?
Southwest can be a good airline when it offers a convenient route and its total price is competitive after bags and seat costs. Its economy service, route network, and loyalty benefits are strengths, while recent punctuality and new fees are drawbacks.
Does Southwest Airlines have a good safety record?
Southwest is an FAA-regulated major airline, but its history is not accident-free. The NTSB documented a passenger fatality on Flight 1380 in 2018 and a ground fatality after Flight 1248 overran a runway in 2005. It is more accurate to review official safety records than rely on an undefined “safest airline” ranking.
What amenities does Southwest Airlines offer?
Amenities can include free entertainment on eligible aircraft, free Wi-Fi for Rapid Rewards members where available, complimentary nonalcoholic drinks, snacks on qualifying flights, and premium drinks for purchase. Passengers must use their own device for entertainment.
Is Southwest Airlines reliable for on-time flights?
Its reliability is mixed. DOT data show a 71.9% on-time arrival rate in May 2026 and 76.8% from January through May. Performance varies by airport, route, departure time, weather, and season, so review the specific flight rather than relying only on an airline-wide average.
Does Southwest Airlines have a frequent-flyer program?
Yes. Rapid Rewards members earn points from qualifying flights and partners. Fare earning rates range from 2 points per dollar on Basic to 14 points per dollar on Choice Extra. The program also offers A-List tiers and Companion Pass qualification.
Does Southwest still include two free checked bags?
Not with every fare. For many U.S. mainland bookings made or changed on or after April 9, 2026, Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred cost $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second. Choice Extra, A-List Preferred, active-duty military travel, and certain other benefits include exceptions.
Does Southwest still use open seating?
No. Southwest transitioned to assigned seating on January 27, 2026. Choice and higher fares include seat-selection benefits, while Basic passengers generally receive a Standard seat at check-in unless loyalty status or an eligible credit-card benefit applies.
Sources
- Southwest Airlines Fare Types and Benefits — current fares, seating, boarding, flexibility, bags, and points earning
- Southwest Airlines Optional Travel Charges — checked-bag prices and exemptions
- U.S. DOT July 2026 Air Travel Consumer Report — May 2026 punctuality and mishandled-baggage data
- Southwest Airlines 2025 Form 10-K — fleet composition, fleet age, route network, and regulatory information
- National Transportation Safety Board: Southwest Flight 1380 — official accident details and injuries
- J.D. Power 2026 North America Airline Satisfaction Study — economy and basic-economy customer-satisfaction ranking
