Southwest Military Discount Guide 2026: Flights, Fares & Baggage

Yes, Southwest offers special military fares for active-duty military personnel and their dependents. However, you can't book these discounted fares online – you must call or visit a Southwest ticket counter at the airport.​

Active-duty U.S. military personnel (including reservists, National Guard members, and Coast Guard members with active orders), cadets/midshipmen from military academies, and their authorized dependents are eligible. 

Active-duty military members receive priority boarding (between A and B groups through January 26, 2026, then Priority Boarding before Group 1 starting January 27, 2026). They're also exempt from baggage fees. 

Southwest doesn't advertise a fixed discount percentage. Savings are typically higher on last-minute bookings when standard fares are expensive. 

No, Rapid Rewards points cannot be used to purchase military or government fares.