Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is not just a carrier, but a true phenomenon in the world of civil aviation, proving that budget travel can be comfortable and hospitable. Born in Texas as a small local initiative, the company has grown into the largest low-cost carrier in the USA, setting standards for the entire industry. Thanks to its unique corporate culture focused on people and the absence of hidden fees, this carrier wins the hearts of millions of passengers dreaming of discovering America every year.

History and Philosophy

The story of Southwest Airlines began with a simple idea: to make air travel accessible to everyone. Founded by Herbert Kelleher and Rollin King, the company started by serving the "Texas Triangle" and quickly gained popularity due to low fares and punctuality. The company's core value is "Heart" (even their stock ticker is LUV). The carrier's mission is to connect people to what's important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel.

Route Network and Popular Destinations

Southwest's flight geography covers almost the entire United States, as well as several destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. A distinct feature of their business model is the emphasis on direct "point-to-point" flights between cities, which reduces travel time. Among the most in-demand routes are flights on the West Coast, for example, from the metropolis of Los Angeles to cozy San Leandro or the tech hub of San Jose.

Flights to tourist centers are immensely popular. Travelers often choose Southwest for flights to sunny Orlando, known for its theme parks, or to vibrant Las Vegas. The airline also provides dense connectivity between major business hubs: Chicago, Denver, and Boston regularly receive dozens of WN flights daily.

Fleet and Safety

One of the key features of Southwest is its unified fleet. The airline is the world's largest operator of Boeing 737 aircraft. Using a single type of aircraft allows for maintaining the highest standards of technical maintenance and pilot training, as every crew member and mechanic knows the machinery thoroughly. This directly influences flight safety, which always remains the company's unconditional priority. The fleet is constantly updated, introducing more economical and eco-friendly models.

Unique Benefits for Passengers

Southwest Airlines stands out from competitors with its "Transfarency" policy. It is one of the few airlines in the world that allows passengers to check in two bags for free (subject to weight limits), which is a huge bonus for tourists. Furthermore, a relaxed atmosphere often reigns on board, and flight attendants are known for their sense of humor and sincere desire to help.

Contacting representatives of Southwest Airlines is quite simple, as the company is famous for its customer-oriented approach and friendliness. The carrier provides round-the-clock support, allowing for the prompt resolution of booking, baggage, or schedule change issues, which is especially important for tourists traveling across different US time zones.

Official Website

The main source of information and platform for managing bookings: www.southwest.com

Contact Details

• Official Website: www.southwest.com
• Customer Support (USA): 1-800-435-9792 (1-800-I-FLY-SWA) — 24/7
• Ticket Reservations: 1-800-435-9792
• Email: There is no direct email address for passengers. To send official inquiries, complaints, or compliments, please use the "Contact Us" form on the official website or in the mobile app.
• Mobile App: Southwest Airlines (available for download on the App Store and Google Play). The app allows you to check in for flights, track baggage, and use the support chat.

Social Media

The airline actively maintains its pages, where it publishes news and frequently answers user questions:

• Facebook
• Twitter (X)
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Local Offices

Southwest Airlines does not have a network of city sales offices in the traditional sense. Customer service is provided directly at departure airports.

• Central Office (Headquarters): P.O. Box 36647-1CR, Dallas, Texas 75235, USA.
• Airport Counters: Located in the departure terminals of all served airports (for example, at the Linthicum hub or major nodes like Los Angeles). Staff at the counters assist with check-in and baggage drop-off.

Emergency Support

For urgent problem resolution (such as flight cancellations), it is recommended to call the main hotline at 1-800-435-9792, which operates 24/7. A Live Chat function is also available in the mobile app for prompt communication with a consultant.

Please note: Contact details and phone numbers may change. We recommend checking current information in the "Contact Us" section on the airline's official website before traveling.

Baggage Rules: Travel Light or Bring It All

The baggage policy of Southwest Airlines is what favorably distinguishes the airline from most competitors. The carrier prides itself on its "Transfarency" concept, the main highlight of which is the absence of hidden fees for suitcases. This is particularly pleasant when planning long trips, such as a family vacation to sunny Orlando or an eventful journey through the company's hub in the city of Linthicum.

Carry-on Baggage

Each Southwest passenger is allowed to bring two items on board:

• One suitcase or bag (carry-on bag): dimensions must not exceed 24 x 16 x 10 inches (approximately 60 x 40 x 25 cm). This bag must fit in the overhead bin.
• One personal item: a handbag, briefcase, laptop bag, or small backpack. This item must be compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you (approximate dimensions 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 inches).

If you are flying with animals, the carrier counts as either the carry-on or the personal item. Assistive devices (crutches, canes) do not count towards the carry-on allowance.

Checked Baggage

Here lies the main advantage of Southwest: the first two bags fly free for every ticketed passenger (excluding infants without a seat). This rule applies to all fares, making flights to Denver with ski equipment or moving to another city incredibly cost-effective. Standard limits for free baggage:

• Weight: Up to 50 pounds (approximately 23 kg) per bag.
• Size: The sum of three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 62 inches (157 cm).

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your suitcases exceed the established limits or you have more than two, additional fees apply:

• Overweight: A fee is charged for baggage weighing between 51 and 100 pounds (23–45 kg). Items heavier than 100 pounds are not accepted as standard baggage and must be shipped as Cargo.
• Oversize: You will also have to pay extra for bags measuring between 62 and 80 inches.
• Extra Bags: The third and subsequent suitcases are charged at a separate rate per item.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Southwest Airlines is loyal to its passengers' hobbies. Many types of sports equipment can replace one of the free baggage items:

• Skis and Snowboards: When flying to ski resorts, ski equipment (skis, poles, boots) in a bag counts as one item of baggage, even if packed in two separate bags (provided they contain only equipment).
• Golf: A golf bag can be transported instead of a suitcase. If you are flying to play on the courses of Florida via Fort Lauderdale, a hard case will protect your clubs, and the airline will not require a liability release for damage, unlike with soft bags.
• Surfing: Surfboards can be transported on flights to the coast, for example, to San Diego, but a fixed fee is often charged as they are considered oversize cargo if they do not fit standard dimensions.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (violin, guitar) can be taken into the cabin if they fit in the overhead bin. Large instruments are checked as baggage or a separate seat can be purchased for them in the cabin.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

For safety purposes, strictly follow TSA (Transportation Security Administration) rules:

• In Carry-on: Liquids, gels, and aerosols only in containers up to 100 ml (3.4 oz), packed in a single transparent resealable bag.
• In Checked Baggage: It is strictly forbidden to check in lithium batteries (power banks), electronic cigarettes, and lighters. These items must be taken with you into the cabin.
• Hazardous Materials: Flammable liquids, fireworks, and chemicals are completely prohibited for transport.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure a smooth journey, we recommend preparing in advance. Weigh your suitcases at home to avoid excess fees at the airport. Be sure to attach a tag with your name and phone number on the outside and place a card with contact details inside the suitcase — this helps if the external tag is torn off. If you are flying with connections, for example, via Chicago (Midway Airport), pack a change of clothes and necessary medications in your carry-on in case of baggage delays.

Traveling with a pet can be stressful, but Southwest Airlines (WN) does everything possible to make this process go smoothly. The airline is famous for its friendly pet program, allowing small cats and dogs to be taken into the aircraft cabin. If you are planning a departure from the hub in the city of Linthicum or any other network airport, familiarize yourself with the rules in advance to avoid surprises at boarding.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

This is the primary and only method of travel for pets on Southwest Airlines passenger flights. Pets must remain under the owner's supervision throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for a hard or soft carrier are 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (approximately 47 x 22 x 34 cm). Soft carriers are preferable as they fit more easily under the seat.
• Weight: There is no strict weight limit, however, the animal must be able to stand up and turn around freely inside the container.
• Allowed Animals: Only vaccinated domestic cats and dogs.
• Limit per Passenger: One carrier per passenger. Up to two animals of the same species (cats or dogs) may be in one carrier if they fit comfortably.
• Placement: The carrier counts as a carry-on or personal item and must be placed under the seat in front of you.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

It is important to know the specifics of the low-cost carrier's policy:

• Availability: Southwest Airlines does not accept pets for transport as checked baggage in the cargo hold.
• Exceptions: There are no exceptions for large dogs or other animals that do not fit in the cabin.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

The airline has a Southwest Cargo division, however:

• Restrictions: The Southwest Cargo service is typically used for commercial shipments and has strict limitations.
• For Tourists: Transporting unaccompanied pets through the cargo terminal on standard passenger flights is generally not practiced for private individuals. It is recommended to clarify current "Southwest Support" program capabilities directly.

Necessary Documents

Although Southwest does not always require the presentation of certificates on domestic flights, having them with you is good practice and ensures peace of mind.

• Veterinary Passport: With current records about the owner and the animal.
• Vaccinations: Valid rabies vaccination (mandatory in many states).
• Health Certificate: Not required for flights within the continental US, but may be needed if disputes arise.
• International Certificates: Not required, as the airline does not transport animals on international flights.

Cost of Services

The pet transport service is paid for in addition to the passenger's ticket.

• Transport in Cabin (Pet Fare): Approximately 95–125 USD one way per carrier.
• Payment: The fee can be paid at the check-in counter at the airport before departure.
• Refunds: If the flight is canceled, the pet fee is refundable.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Requirements: It must be leak-proof (waterproof bottom) and well-ventilated. The animal must not stick its head out.
• Booking: The number of pet spaces on board is limited (usually 6 carriers per flight), so book a spot for your pet in advance by phone.
• Behavior: Accustom your pet to the carrier a few days before departure.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal heavily 4 hours before the flight to avoid motion sickness, but offer a little water.

Restrictions

• Flight Geography: Animals are not permitted on international flights, nor on flights to/from the Hawaiian Islands.
• Prohibited Animals: Rodents, rabbits, birds, reptiles, and spiders are not accepted for transport.
• Behavior: Animals showing aggression, barking, or distress may be denied boarding by airport staff, for example, in Dallas or other departure points.
• Age: Kittens and puppies must be older than 8 weeks.
• Service Dogs: Special rules apply for trained service animals (transport is free), but advance notification is required.

Attention: Airline rules may change. We strongly recommend contacting Southwest Airlines before purchasing a ticket to clarify current rates and requirements.

Rapid Rewards is the loyalty program of Southwest Airlines, which has repeatedly been recognized as one of the best in the US due to its simplicity and fairness. The philosophy of the program is built on the principle of accessibility: if there is a free seat on the plane, you can buy it with points without worrying about hidden restrictions or a lack of quotas for reward tickets.

Membership Tiers and Privileges

There are several steps in the Rapid Rewards program, each opening up new possibilities for comfortable trips for travelers:

• Member: The entry level, available immediately after registration. The main pluses are that points never expire as long as the account is active, and there are no "blackout dates" for flights using points.
• A-List: Status is granted after 25 one-way flights or accumulating 35,000 qualifying points in a year. Includes priority check-in, access to a dedicated security lane (where available), and, most importantly, priority boarding, which allows you to choose the best seats. A 25% bonus on earned points is also awarded.
• A-List Preferred: Elite level (50 flights or 70,000 points). Gives a 100% points bonus, free high-speed Wi-Fi on board, and priority on the waitlist.
• Companion Pass: A unique feature of Southwest (100 flights or 135,000 points). The holder of this status can choose one companion who will fly with them completely free of charge (only taxes and fees are paid) on any flight, whether to Denver or any other city in the network, for the entire duration of the status validity.

How to Earn Points

The point accrual system is tied to the ticket price, not the distance traveled, making it transparent for passengers:

• Flights: You receive points for every dollar spent on the fare. For the most affordable "Wanna Get Away" tickets, 6 points per dollar are awarded, and for the "Business Select" fare — 12 points.
• Partners: Points can be earned by booking hotels, renting cars, or using the services of the program's ground partners.
• Credit Cards: Co-branded cards allow you to accumulate points for everyday purchases at supermarkets and gas stations.
• Shopping and Dining: Through the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal, you can receive bonuses for online purchases at your favorite stores.

How to Spend Points

Using accumulated bonuses is as easy as earning them:

• Free Tickets: Any seat on any flight can be paid for with points. The cost in points is dynamic and depends on the current monetary price of the ticket. This allows for cost-effective vacation planning in popular places like Orlando or Las Vegas.
• More Rewards: Points can be exchanged for gift cards from international brands, merchandise, or car rentals.
• International Flights: Through program partners, you can book flights to destinations where Southwest aircraft do not fly.

Alliance Membership

• Southwest Airlines is not part of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam).
• The airline operates independently, developing its own powerful route network and concluding targeted partnership agreements.

How to Join

• You can become a member for free by filling out a form on the official Southwest.com website or in the mobile app.
• Immediately after registration, you will receive an account number, which must be provided with every ticket booking.

Onboard Services and Travel Classes: The Evolution of Comfort

Southwest Airlines (WN) has long been known for its unique philosophy of "democracy in the sky," but time does not stand still, and the carrier is actively modernizing its services to meet the modern demands of travelers. Today, flying with Southwest is a combination of legendary hospitality with updated comfort standards that make the journey pleasant, whether it is a short flight or a trip across the country.

Seat Configuration and Space

The company's fleet consists of reliable Boeing 737 liners with a classic 3-3 layout. Even in economy class, the seat pitch (distance between rows) is a decent 31–32 inches (about 79–81 cm), which exceeds the standards of many competitors. This ensures comfort even on long routes, for example, if you are flying from the city of Dallas to the coast in Los Angeles.

Important Policy Update: Traditionally, Southwest was famous for the absence of partitions and a single cabin class. However, following industry trends, the airline has announced plans to transition to an assigned seating system and introduce zones with extra legroom. This will allow passengers to choose their desired level of comfort in advance when booking, while maintaining the friendly atmosphere on board.

Dining and Charging Capabilities

The modern traveler cannot do without gadgets, and the airline understands this. The Southwest fleet is being actively equipped with USB-A and USB-C power ports built into the seats. Now you can charge your smartphones and tablets right during the flight without worrying about a drained battery upon arrival.

Regarding catering, Southwest remains true to the low-cost format:

• Drinks and Snacks: Non-alcoholic beverages (coffee, juices, soda) and branded snacks (pretzels or mixes) are offered free of charge on all flights. This is a great way to have a snack on the way to Chicago or Minneapolis.
• Alcohol: Beer, wine, and cocktails are available for an additional fee (card payment only). Hot meals are not provided on board, so for long flights, we recommend bringing food with you.

Boarding and Seat Selection (Current Situation)

At present (until the full implementation of the new assigned seating system), the famous Open Seating policy is still in effect on many flights. The boarding pass does not indicate a specific seat, but a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a sequence number.

• You board in the order of your queue and take any available seat.
• EarlyBird Check-In or high status in the loyalty program allows you to board earlier and take the best seats, for example, by the window or in the front of the cabin.

Fares and Privileges

Fare selection affects boarding priority and ticket flexibility:

• Business Select: Maximum comfort. Guaranteed boarding in group A1–A15 (first on board), a free premium drink, and expedited screening at select airports. Ideal for business trips, for example, between the Linthicum hub and the business center of Boston.
• Anytime: Includes the option of early check-in, which significantly increases the chances of getting a comfortable seat.
• Wanna Get Away / Plus: Advantageous fares for those who want to save money and are ready to choose from the remaining seats.

Inflight Entertainment

Southwest uses a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) system. There are no screens in the seatbacks, but content is streamed via the onboard portal to your device:

• Movies and TV: Free access to movies and live TV channels.
• Messengers: Free text messaging via iMessage and WhatsApp throughout the flight (very convenient to inform those meeting you at Orlando airport about your arrival).
• Wi-Fi: Full internet access is provided for a fee (usually $8 per flight); for top statuses and fares, it may be included in the price.

The Southwest Airlines route network covers key destinations throughout the United States, ensuring a high frequency of flights between major metropolises and popular resorts. A special role in the schedule is played by the base airport in the city of Linthicum, which serves as an important connecting hub for numerous flights linking the East Coast with the rest of the country.

Traveling with Southwest Airlines has its own unique features that distinguish this airline from other American carriers. To make your flight as comfortable and cost-effective as possible, we have compiled several proven recommendations that will help save time and money, whether it's a business trip through the hub in the city of Linthicum or a family vacation.

Best Time for Booking and Finding Low Prices

Southwest is known for its regular sales. Experienced travelers know the rule: "check prices on Tuesday." Often it is on this day that the airline launches new ticket promotions. To find the most advantageous offers, use the Low Fare Calendar tool on the official website. It allows you to see the cheapest days to fly for a month ahead. Additionally, sign up for the "Click 'N Save" newsletter to receive exclusive promo codes directly to your email.

The Rebooking Secret

One of the main life hacks when dealing with Southwest is the absence of penalties for changing a flight. If the price drops after you bought a ticket (which happens quite often), you can "change" your flight to the exact same one at the new, lower price. The difference will be returned to you in the form of a credit (Travel Funds) for future trips, which does not expire.

Check-in and Seat Selection Strategy

Since Southwest (under the traditional service model) does not have pre-assigned specific seats, your position in the boarding queue determines where you will sit.

• The 24-Hour Rule: Online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before departure. Set an alarm! The earlier you press the "Check-in" button in the app or on the website, the higher your boarding group (A, B, or C) and sequence number will be.
• EarlyBird Check-In: If you don't want to watch the clock for check-in time, purchase the EarlyBird Check-In service (from $15). The system will automatically check you in 36 hours before departure, ensuring a more advantageous position in the queue and access to better seats and overhead bins for carry-on luggage.

Mobile App — Your Main Assistant

We strongly recommend downloading the Southwest app before your trip. It performs several important functions at once:

• Boarding Pass: No need to look for a printer; the digital code is always at hand.
• Entertainment: Since there are no built-in screens on Southwest planes, the app opens access to a portal with free movies, music, and TV, which you can watch on your tablet or phone.
• Flight Information: You will receive notifications about gate numbers and schedule changes in real-time.

Travel Insurance

Despite the airline's own lenient cancellation policy, we recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance. It will cover not only medical expenses but also cases of lost luggage or non-refundable hotel and excursion bookings if your plans suddenly change due to reasons beyond the airline's control.

The history of Southwest Airlines (WN) is an inspiring example of how a bold idea and attention to people can change an entire industry. What began as a small Texas venture turned into the world's largest low-cost carrier, which has held leadership for decades thanks to a unique business model and corporate culture.

The Legend on a Napkin and a Difficult Start

Official corporate legend has it that the airline concept was born in 1967 in a hotel bar in San Antonio. Businessman Rollin King and lawyer Herb Kelleher sketched a triangle on a cocktail napkin connecting three cities: Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Their idea was to create an airline that would fly as frequently and cheaply as buses run.

However, the path to the sky was thorny. Competitors spent several years on lawsuits trying to prevent the new company from taking off. The first flight took place only on June 18, 1971. In the early years, to survive, the company had to sell one of its four Boeing 737 aircraft. To maintain the schedule with three planes, ground crews learned to service the aircraft (deplaning, boarding, refueling) in just 10 minutes. This legendary efficiency became the foundation of the Southwest business model.

Era of Expansion and the "Southwest Effect"

Until 1979, the airline flew only within Texas. After the passage of the Airline Deregulation Act, Southwest began rapid expansion. First came neighboring states, and then both coasts. The carrier's appearance in a new market was always accompanied by a sharp drop in prices from competitors and an increase in passenger traffic — a phenomenon dubbed the "Southwest Effect".

In the 1990s and 2000s, the company strengthened its positions in key nodes. Midway Airport in the city of Chicago became the largest hub in the Midwest, and on the East Coast, Linthicum (BWI Airport) was chosen as a strategic center, allowing convenient connections between Washington and Baltimore and the rest of the country. On the West Coast, the "blue birds" firmly established themselves in metropolises such as Los Angeles and San Diego, offering an alternative to expensive traditional carriers.

Loyalty to the Boeing 737

A unique feature of the Southwest fleet is the use of only one type of aircraft — the Boeing 737. This strategic decision allowed for significant savings on pilot training, maintenance, and spare parts. The company went from early 737-200 models to the classics (-300/-500), then transitioned to the Next Generation (-700/-800), and today is actively introducing modern Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

Mergers, Acquisitions, and New Horizons

An important milestone in history was the acquisition of AirTran Airways in 2011. This merger not only increased the fleet but also opened access to international flights (Mexico, Caribbean) for Southwest and strengthened its presence in key tourist destinations, such as sunny Orlando.

Modernity and Innovation

Today, Southwest Airlines continues to develop, adapting to changing market demands. The airline was one of the first to introduce a ticketless travel system and created a powerful website for direct sales. The route network has become incredibly dense: now you can fly from the mountain hub of Denver to almost anywhere in the US, and the frequency of flights between business centers, such as Boston, and resorts like the city of Las Vegas, is numbered in dozens per day.

Despite its scale, the company tries to preserve the startup spirit: planes are painted in bright liveries (including state flags), and flight attendants are encouraged to show individuality and humor. In recent years, the company has also begun a large-scale cabin modernization program, improving Wi-Fi and installing wider overhead bins so that every journey remains comfortable.