How Does Southwest Boarding Work: Everything You Need To Know 2025

Southwest boarding groups are A, B, and C (along with special pre-boarding and family boarding) that determine your boarding order.

Passengers check in 24 hours before departure, receive a boarding group (A–C) and position (1–60), and board in group order to choose any open seat.

Southwest has three main boarding groups—A, B, and C—plus pre-boarding and family boarding categories.

Open seating means there are no assigned seats; you pick any available seat when your boarding group is called.

Your boarding position within groups A–C determines the order you board and pick your preferred window, aisle, or middle seat.

Pre-boarding, Group A (positions 1–60), family boarding, Group B (1–60), then Group C (1–60), called sequentially.

Check in exactly 24 hours before departure and complete all steps promptly to secure an earlier group and position. Or if you have booked your flight tickets with ExperianAirfare and call us now.