How can I select my seat in advance?

You can usually select your seat during booking or by managing your booking online. Some airlines may charge a fee for selecting a seat.

Who do I contact for lost or delayed baggage?

Report lost or delayed baggage at the airline’s baggage counter as soon as you land. They will provide a tracking ID and updates on the status of your baggage.

How much does it cost to upgrade your seat on Southwest?

By flightshelpcenter

Published on January 2, 2026

Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee is one of the most searched topics among travelers who want better boarding positions and seating flexibility without paying traditional first-class prices. Unlike most airlines, Southwest does not assign seats, which makes its upgraded boarding system unique. Instead of seat upgrades, passengers can pay for priority boarding positions that significantly improve their onboard experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about costs, rules, refunds, and whether paying for the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee is worth it in 2025.

If you need booking or upgrade assistance, you can also contact Southwest support at +1 (866) 558-3017..

Quick Overview: Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee

Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee varies by route, demand, and timing, but generally ranges from $30 to $80 per flight segment. Unlike traditional airlines, Southwest does not offer assigned seats or cabin upgrades. Instead, passengers can pay the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee to purchase Upgraded Boarding, which guarantees a premium A1–A15 boarding position. Prices are dynamic and depend on availability, often purchased after check-in or at the airport when slots remain.

Upgrade Costs & Factors

Short Flights: Typically $30–$40 for less crowded or short-haul routes.
Medium to Long Flights: Usually $40–$60, with busy routes reaching $80.
Dynamic Pricing: Costs fluctuate based on demand and remaining A1–A15 positions.
Route & Season: Popular routes, holidays, and peak travel times increase prices.

How to Find & Pay for Upgrades

Manage Booking: Check your reservation online after check-in for upgrade availability.
Online or Mobile App: If available, Upgraded Boarding appears as an add-on option.
Airport: Purchase at the kiosk, ticket counter, or gate before boarding begins.

Key Things to Know

Availability Is Limited: Only a small number of A1–A15 spots are sold per flight.
No Seat Assignment: The upgrade improves boarding position, not seat guarantees.
Refund Policy: Fees are generally non-refundable unless Southwest fails to provide the service.

Tip: The Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee is ideal for travelers who want early boarding, better seat choice, and overhead bin access—especially on full or high-demand flights.

What Is the Southwest Seat Upgrade Fee? In 2026

The Southwest Seat Upgrade Fee is a paid option that allows passengers to secure Upgraded Boarding, giving them a guaranteed boarding position in Group A (A1–A15). Since Southwest does not assign seats, this upgrade improves your chances of selecting a preferred window or aisle seat and accessing overhead bin space. The Southwest Seat Upgrade Fee is a one-time charge per flight segment and does not change your fare type, baggage allowance, refundability, or ticket flexibility—those benefits remain the same as your original fare.

Explanation of the Southwest Seat Upgrade Fee (With Price Details)

The Southwest Seat Upgrade Fee typically ranges from USD 30 to USD 80 per one-way flight, depending on route demand, travel season, and seat availability.

Short-haul routes: USD 30–40
Medium-haul routes: USD 40–60
High-demand or long routes: USD 60–80

This fee only upgrades your boarding priority, not your cabin or service level.

Difference Between Upgraded Boarding and Early Check-In

EarlyBird Check-In automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure, usually resulting in a boarding position in the early or middle B group. It costs USD 15–25 per flight but does not guarantee a top boarding position.

Upgraded Boarding, purchased using the Southwest Seat Upgrade Fee, guarantees a premium A1–A15 boarding position, regardless of when you check in. This makes it the strongest option for passengers who want maximum seat choice and bin space.

Who Should Consider Paying the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee

The Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee is especially worthwhile for business travelers, couples traveling together, tall passengers, and anyone who needs reliable overhead bin access. It’s also ideal for travelers on full or peak-time flights where early boarding significantly improves comfort and convenience.

Seat Upgrade Cost – What You Need to Know

The Southwest Seat Upgrade Cost is a variable, route-based fee that allows passengers to secure Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15) on eligible flights. This cost is charged per one-way flight segment and is separate from your base fare. While prices are dynamic, most travelers can expect the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee to fall within a predictable range based on distance, demand, and travel timing.

Breakdown of Southwest Seat Upgrade Cost

In 2025, the Southwest Seat Upgrade Cost typically ranges between $30 and $80 per flight segment. The final price is displayed at checkout or during airport purchase and does not include any additional taxes or hidden charges.

Typical Price Range by Route

Short-haul routes:$30–$40
Medium-haul routes:$40–$60
Long or high-demand routes:$60–$80

Busy business routes, holiday travel dates, and last-minute upgrades often fall at the higher end of the price range.

Factors That Affect the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee

Several factors influence the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee, including:

Route popularity and passenger load
Travel season, such as holidays or peak weekends
Remaining A1–A15 boarding slots at the time of purchase
Airport demand levels and flight timing

Because availability is limited, prices may increase closer to departure. For the most accurate pricing and real-time availability on your specific itinerary, you can contact +1 (866) 558-3017 for personalized assistance.

Are Southwest Seat Upgrade Fees Refundable?

Generally, Southwest Seat Upgrade Fees are non-refundable, but there are specific exceptions covered later in this guide.

Payment Methods Accepted

Credit cards
Debit cards
Southwest gift cards
Travel funds (when eligible)

Taxes and Inclusions Under the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee

The fee includes all applicable taxes. No additional airport surcharges apply.

Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee Refund Policy

The Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee Refund Policy is more limited than standard ticket refunds, as upgraded boarding is considered an optional add-on service. In most cases, the fee is non-refundable once purchased. However, Southwest does allow refunds under specific circumstances when the airline is unable to provide the upgraded boarding benefit you paid for.

Rules for Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee Refund

A Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee Refund is only issued if one of the following situations occurs:

Southwest cancels your flight
You are involuntarily rebooked onto another flight where upgraded boarding cannot be honored
Upgraded boarding (A1–A15) is not provided due to operational issues

Voluntary flight changes, missed flights, or personal schedule changes do not qualify for a refund of the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee.

Situations Where Refunds Are Allowed

When Southwest fails to deliver the purchased upgraded boarding service, the refund is typically processed back to the original form of payment. Refunds are not issued as travel credit unless required by the original payment method.

How to Request a Refund for the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee in 2026

If you believe you qualify for a refund, you can submit a request through Southwest’s official website or speak directly with a representative. For faster assistance and eligibility confirmation, call +1 (866) 558-3017 and provide your confirmation number and flight details.

Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee First Class – Is It Available?

Southwest Airlines does not offer first class, business class, or premium economy seating on any of its flights. Searches for Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee First Class usually reflect confusion, as the airline only sells upgraded boarding, not premium cabins. The Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee provides access to A1–A15 boarding positions, allowing passengers to choose better seats earlier, such as front-row or exit-row options, but it does not include luxury seating or enhanced onboard services.

Does Southwest Offer First Class Seating?

Southwest does not offer first class, business class, or premium economy cabins
All passengers travel in a single economy cabin with open seating

Reality Behind “Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee First Class” Searches

The term reflects traveler confusion, not an actual product
Southwest sells boarding priority, not premium cabins
The Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee only provides A1–A15 upgraded boarding
No luxury seating, private cabins, or enhanced onboard service included

Best Alternatives to First Class on Southwest Airlines

Purchase Upgraded Boarding for early seat selection
Choose exit row seats for extra legroom
Select front-row seats for faster boarding and deplaning
Board early to secure aisle/window seats and overhead bin space

These options deliver the closest experience to first class on Southwest without premium cabin pricing.

Southwest Upgrade Boarding After Check In – How It Works In 2026

Upgrade Southwest Boarding After Check In is a popular option for passengers who want a better boarding position even if they didn’t check in early. Southwest allows travelers to purchase upgraded boarding after completing check-in, provided A1–A15 positions are still available. This option is especially useful on busy flights where early boarding significantly improves seat choice and overhead bin access.

Can You Purchase Southwest Upgrade Boarding After Check In?

Yes. Southwest Upgrade Boarding After Check In is commonly purchased after online check-in or at the airport. Availability depends on how many upgraded boarding slots remain for that specific flight, and it is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Step-by-Step Process at the Airport

Check in online, at a kiosk, or with a Southwest agent
Ask for upgraded boarding availability
Pay the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee
Receive a confirmed A1–A15 boarding position

Availability Limits for the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee

Only a limited number of upgraded boarding positions are available per flight. Once the A1–A15 slots are sold out, Southwest Upgrade Boarding After Check In is no longer offered. For the best chance of availability, purchase as early as possible after check-in.

Southwest Upgraded Boarding Cost Breakdown

The Southwest Upgraded Boarding Cost is a variable, per-segment fee that allows passengers to secure priority boarding in the A1–A15 group. This option is designed for travelers who want maximum control over seat selection and overhead bin access, especially on busy or fully booked flights.

Exact Southwest Upgraded Boarding Cost Range

In 2025, the Southwest Upgraded Boarding Cost typically falls between $30 and $80 per one-way flight segment. Pricing depends on route demand, travel season, and remaining upgraded boarding availability at the time of purchase.

Comparison With EarlyBird Check-In

EarlyBird Check-In:$15–$25 per segment
- Automatically checks you in 36 hours before departure
- No guaranteed boarding position
Upgraded Boarding:$30–$80 per segment
- Guarantees A1–A15 boarding priority
- Higher cost, but confirmed early access

Is the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee Worth the Price?

For travelers who value time savings, personal space, and seating flexibility, the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee often delivers strong value. The guaranteed boarding position reduces stress, improves seat choice, and increases access to overhead bins—making it especially worthwhile on peak travel days, full flights, or for business and frequent travelers.

Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee vs EarlyBird Check-In

Feature	Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee (Upgraded Boarding)	EarlyBird Check-In
Price	Higher cost (approx. $30–$80 per flight)	Lower cost (approx. $15–$25 per flight)
Boarding Position	Guaranteed A1–A15 boarding group	No guarantee; usually early or mid-B group
Seat Selection Control	High – best chance for aisle/window or front seats	Moderate – depends on demand
Convenience	Active choice with confirmed priority	Passive automatic check-in
Time Savings	Faster boarding and easier overhead bin access	Some improvement, but less predictable
Stress Level	Very low – boarding position is assured	Medium – results vary by flight
Best For	Full flights, business travelers, couples	Casual travelers, lighter loads

Tip: While EarlyBird Check-In is cheaper, the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee offers greater certainty, control, and reduced stress—making it the better option for travelers who value predictability and priority boarding.

Pros and Cons of Paying the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee

Understanding the benefits and limitations of the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee can help you decide whether upgraded boarding is worth the added cost for your trip.

Advantages of Upgraded Boarding

Guaranteed priority boarding in the A1–A15 group
Better seating options, including front-row and exit-row seats
Reduced stress with easier overhead bin access and faster boarding

Limitations of the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee

No assigned seat guarantee, as Southwest uses open seating
Limited availability, with only a small number of upgraded slots per flight
Non-refundable in most cases, unless Southwest fails to deliver the service

When Skipping the Upgrade Makes Sense

Paying the Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee may not be necessary on short flights, off-peak travel times, or lightly booked routes, where good seating and bin space are often available without paying extra.

Conclusion

The Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Fee is a valuable option for travelers who want priority boarding, better seat choice, and reduced travel stress without paying for a premium cabin. While it doesn’t include assigned seating or first-class service, the guaranteed A1–A15 boarding position often makes the cost worthwhile on busy routes and peak travel days. For short or lightly booked flights, skipping the upgrade may be practical, but for comfort-focused travelers, upgraded boarding delivers clear benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to upgrade your seat on Southwest?

Southwest does not offer seat upgrades in the traditional sense. Instead, passengers can purchase Upgraded Boarding, which typically costs $30 to $80 per one-way flight segment. This fee guarantees an A1–A15 boarding position, allowing you to choose better seats earlier.

Can you get a free upgrade on Southwest?

Southwest does not provide free seat upgrades because it does not have first class or assigned seating. However, A-List and A-List Preferred members may receive better boarding positions automatically, which can feel like a free upgrade.

Can I upgrade my Southwest ticket after purchase?

Yes. You can purchase Southwest Upgraded Boarding after ticket purchase, including after check-in or at the airport, as long as A1–A15 boarding positions are still available.

Is it worth it to upgrade a Southwest flight?

Upgraded Boarding is worth it for travelers who value early boarding, overhead bin access, and preferred seating. It is especially beneficial on full flights, peak travel days, or for business travelers and couples.

What is the 10-minute rule for Southwest?

Southwest’s 10-minute rule allows you to change or cancel a flight within 10 minutes of booking without penalty, as long as the reservation was made at least seven days before departure.