Is Southwest Still a Good Airline? Pros, Cons, and More

When it comes to choosing an airline, the options can be overwhelming. Among many carriers, Southwest is considered a good airline by travelers and is known for low prices, free checked bags, and no change or cancellation fees. It is often regarded as a customer-friendly, budget-conscious airline with a unique approach to air travel. People also appreciate the friendly service and the open seating system, where you choose any available seat when you board. While it doesn’t have first class or lots of international flights, it’s a great choice for easy, affordable travel in the U.S.

Who is Southwest best for?

Southwest Airlines is a great choice for a wide range of travelers, especially:

Budget Travelers:

Travelers who pack a lot of luggage and want to avoid checked bag fees. Southwest offers two free checked bags, low fares, and helps to keep travel costs down without any hidden fees or surprise charges.

Families:

Families love the flexibility of no change fees, an open seating system so you can sit together, and friendly staff who make flying less stressful.

Business Travelers:

Southwest offers frequent flights, especially on popular U.S. routes, and Business Select fares for those who want priority boarding and refundable tickets.

Flexible Flyers:

If your travel plans might change, then Southwest is an ideal choice. You can cancel or change your flight without penalty and get flight credits or refunds depending on the fare.

Pet Owners:

Pet-friendly policies for small cats and dogs on domestic flights make it easier to travel with your little companions.

Domestic U.S. Travelers:

Southwest focuses on U.S. destinations, so it's best for those flying within the country rather than overseas.

Pros of Southwest Airlines

Two Free Checked Bags:

This is a major perk of Southwest, as most other airlines now charge for checked luggage. Southwest is one of the only U.S. airlines that lets every passenger check 2 bags for free, which is a major money-saver for families and long trips.

No Change or Cancellation Fees:

You can change or cancel your flight without paying extra fees. If you cancel, you’ll get a credit or refund, and when you change, you may have to pay any fare difference depending on your ticket type.

Low Fares:

Known for its “Wanna Get Away” fares, Southwest often offers some of the lowest ticket prices for domestic U.S. travel.

Free In-Flight Entertainment:

It also offers free movies, live TV, and messaging on your personal device, no need to pay extra or rent a screen.

Friendly, Helpful Staff:

Southwest has a reputation for excellent customer service, with staff who are often more relaxed, helpful, and friendly compared to other airlines.

Open Seating System:

There are no assigned seats, so you choose your seat based on your boarding group and number, which can make boarding faster and more efficient.

Rapid Rewards Program:

Southwest's loyalty program often requires fewer points to book flights compared to other major airlines. Their frequent flyer program is straightforward and rewards points based on the price you pay, not on miles flown.

Good On-Time Performance:

Southwest generally ranks well for on-time arrivals and departures, especially on major domestic routes. Southwest operates flights between smaller cities, which can be convenient for certain routes.

Free Drinks:

Unlike some budget carriers, Southwest offers complimentary drinks on board.

Also Read: Best Time To Book Southwest Flights

Cons of Southwest Airlines

No Assigned Seats:

Southwest uses open seating, which means you don’t get to pick a seat ahead of time. So you must check in early or pay for "Early Bird Check-in" to get a better choice of seats. If you board late, you might not get to sit with your group or may end up with a middle seat.

No First Class or Extra Legroom Sections:

Southwest has only one class of service, so there's no upgrade to first class or premium economy. This can be a downside for travelers seeking more comfort or luxury.

Limited International Destinations:

Southwest mainly flies within the United States, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, and a few nearby international destinations. It doesn’t serve Europe, Asia, or other long-haul destinations.

No Seatback Screens or Power Outlets:

In-flight entertainment is only available via personal devices. Planes do not have seatback screens or power outlets, so bring a fully charged device.

Boarding Can Feel Rushed or Confusing:

The boarding process, based on groups (A, B, C), can feel chaotic or stressful, especially for first-time fliers or families with children.

Fewer Partnerships or Lounge Access:

Southwest doesn’t have airline partners, so you can’t book international connections easily or access lounges through status.

Tips for Flying Southwest

• Check in exactly 24 hours before your flight to get a better boarding position.
• Consider EarlyBird Check-In if you want Southwest to check you in automatically without the stress.
• Know the open seating system in which there are no assigned seats; better seat choice depends on your boarding order.
• Take advantage of your two free checked bags and pack smart. No need to cram everything into a carry-on.
• Download the Southwest app for mobile check-in, boarding pass, and free entertainment.
• Bring a charged device and headphones, as there are no seatback screens or outlets onboard.
• Use the Low Fare Calendar to find the cheapest days to fly.
• Arrive early at the gate and line up by your boarding group and number.
• Don’t expect luxury, but do expect friendly faces and a smooth experience.

Conclusion

So, is Southwest a good airline to fly? Yes, it’s a great choice for travelers who want low fares, free checked bags, and no change fees. If you are wondering, “Is Southwest Airlines good?”, many passengers say yes because it saves money and keeps things simple. And is Southwest still a good airline today? Yes, even with some downsides like no assigned seats or limited international routes, it remains one of the best budget-friendly airlines in the U.S. Book your next trip easily, quickly, and affordably with Travelpodium. With great deals on Southwest flights, no hidden fees, and a user-friendly booking experience, Travelpodium helps you travel smarter.