does southwest airlines have first class seating

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does southwest airlines have first class seating

 

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Planning a Southwest trip and wondering if you can book first class? You might be surprised to learn that Southwest Airlines takes a very different approach compared to most major U.S. carriers. Instead of offering traditional first class or business class cabins, Southwest has its own unique model.


Here’s everything you need to know about first class on Southwest (or lack thereof), what they offer instead, and how you can still upgrade your experience.

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Does Southwest Airlines Offer First Class Seating?​

The short answer: No, Southwest does not have traditional first class seating.


Unlike airlines like United, Delta, or American, Southwest operates a single-cabin, open seating model. This means:

• No assigned seats.
• No dedicated first-class section.
• Everyone boards in groups and chooses their seat once on the plane.

Traveler story: One Vegas-bound flyer booked Business Select expecting plush recliners and champagne, only to find the same economy-style seats—just boarded earlier than everyone else.

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What Does Southwest Offer Instead of First Class?​

Even though there’s no true first class, Southwest offers options that mimic some premium perks.

Open Seating Model​

• Passengers board by group (A, B, or C) and by boarding position number.
• The earlier you board, the better your seat selection.

Business Select Fares​

Often mistaken for “first class,” Business Select is Southwest’s top-tier fare class. It includes:

• Priority boarding (A1–A15 spots).
• Bonus Rapid Rewards points.
• A free premium drink.
• Fully refundable fares and same-day flight changes.

Perks for All Passengers​

Southwest stands out by giving every flyer:

• 2 free checked bags.
• No change fees.
• Generous flight credits if you cancel.

Visual suggestion: Side-by-side chart comparing “First Class on Legacy Airlines” vs. “Business Select on Southwest.”

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Is Business Select Comparable to First Class?​

Yes and no.


Similarities:

• Priority boarding.
• Added perks like bonus points and a drink.

Differences:

• Same seat size and legroom (~32–33 inches, similar to economy).
• No exclusive cabin, lie-flat seats, or lounge access.

Frequent flyer insight: “Business Select feels more like economy with perks than true first class.”


So, if you’re chasing comfort, Southwest won’t offer lie-flat luxury. But if convenience, flexibility, and boarding first matter to you, Business Select comes close.

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How to Upgrade Your Experience on Southwest (Without First Class)​

Even without first class, there are ways to secure the best seats and perks:

• Buy Business Select for guaranteed early boarding and flexibility.
• Purchase Upgraded Boarding at the gate ($30–$80 per segment) for an A1–A15 spot.
• Add EarlyBird Check-In for automatic check-in 36 hours before departure.
• Use Southwest Credit Cards (Priority or Performance) for free Upgraded Boarding benefits.

Pro tip box: “Want first pick of seats without Business Select pricing? Buy EarlyBird, then grab an upgrade at the gate if it’s still available.”

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Final Thoughts — Does Southwest Airlines Have First Class Seating?​

Southwest doesn’t offer traditional first class seating. Instead, they provide Business Select fares and upgrade options that give you priority treatment while keeping the seating the same for everyone.


If your priority is comfort and exclusivity, Southwest may not deliver. But if you value boarding first, extra perks, and flexible tickets, Business Select can feel like Southwest’s version of first class.


Call (831-298-4213) today to book or upgrade your Southwest flight and make the most of your next trip.