When travelers think about flight upgrades, they typically picture extra legroom, priority boarding, and premium seats. However, Southwest Airlines operates differently from traditional airlines, which can cause confusion for passengers seeking upgrade options. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether a Southwest Airlines seat upgrade includes seats with extra legroom. Understanding Southwest unique seating model is crucial before spending extra money or expecting premium benefits.

For hassle-free assistance, contact myflightpolicy at +1-877-271-4004.

Understanding Southwest Airlines Seating Policy

Southwest Airlines is known for its open seating policy, which means passengers are not assigned specific seats at booking. Instead, seats are chosen on a first-come, first-served basis once onboard. This system eliminates the concept of reserved premium seats, business class rows, or designated extra-legroom sections.

As this policy states, The Southwest airlines seat selection is fundamentally different from other carriers. Rather than choosing a seat in advance, travelers focus on boarding position, which ultimately determines seat availability. The earlier you board, the more seat choices you have, including aisle or window seats that may offer slightly more perceived space.

What Is a Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade?

• With Southwest Airlines' boarding upgrade, customers can improve their boarding position to A1-A15, subject to availability, allowing them to board the plane before other passengers.
• Passengers will also receive a seat upgrade to Southwest Airlines' premium class.
• By boarding earlier, customers can easily choose their preferred seat and access overhead bin space.
• Boarding upgrades are available for purchase up to 30 minutes before flight departure and can only be purchased within 24 hours of departure, subject to availability.
• You can purchase the boarding upgrade for $30 per segment per passenger, although the cost may vary depending on the length and popularity of each flight segment.
• Customers can use a credit card to purchase the boarding upgrade.
• The boarding upgrade is non-refundable, and customers who cancel their flights will forfeit the upgrade they purchased.
• However, if Southwest Airlines cancels a flight, customers can request a refund of the boarding upgrade cost for that particular flight.

How can I get a seat upgrade on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines upgraded boarding can be easily added to your reservation during your flight check-in. They offer both online and offline options to enhance your flying experience.

           Offline Method 

To upgrade your reservation online, simply use the Southwest app or go to Southwest.com and purchase upgraded boarding if it is available for your flight.

• Open the Southwest app or go to the official website.
• Select the "Check-in" icon at the bottom of the screen.
• Enter your confirmation number and confirm that the flight information is correct.
• Look for upgraded boarding options below "View Boarding Pass."
• Select the upgraded boarding option if available.
• Add upgraded boarding to one or more flight segments in your itinerary.Upgrade your seat offline

To upgrade your seat on Southwest Airlines by phone:

• Call Southwest Airlines Customer Service at +1-877-271-4004.
• Wait for a representative to assist you.
• Politely ask if any upgraded seating options are available for your flight, such as Business Select or EarlyBird Check-In.
• Provide your flight details (confirmation number, date, and route).
• If applicable, inquire about the upgrade fee.
• If an upgrade is available, confirm the price and make the payment if necessary.
• Receive your new seat details and enjoy your upgraded experience!

Does Southwest Offer Extra Legroom Seating?

The short answer is no, Southwest does not offer designated extra legroom seats. All seats across the aircraft have similar pitch and width. Unlike carriers that sell “Economy Plus” or “Main Cabin Extra,” Southwest maintains uniform seating to keep operations simple and fares competitive.

However, some seats may feel more spacious than others:

• Exit row seats often provide more legroom
• Bulkhead seats may offer slightly different spacing
• Front-row seats allow quicker exit after landing

These seats are not sold separately and cannot be reserved in advance. Passengers with earlier boarding positions are simply more likely to secure them.

Southwest Airlines Premium Cabin Upgrade: Myth or Reality?

Many travelers search for a southwest airlines premium cabin upgrade, expecting a higher-class experience similar to first or business class. In reality, Southwest does not have premium cabins.

There is no curtain separating classes, no upgraded meal service, and no larger seats. The airline’s philosophy is based on simplicity and equality across the cabin. All passengers receive the same seat quality, service, and amenities regardless of fare type.

That said, Southwest offers fare bundles such as Anytime and Business Select, which include additional perks like:

• Priority boarding
• Refund flexibility
• Bonus Rapid Rewards points

These benefits improve the travel experience but do not change the seat itself.

Southwest Airlines First Class Upgrade Explained

Southwest Airlines technically doesn't offer anything like a first-class upgrade. Southwest has deliberately avoided offering a first-class product to maintain faster boarding and lower operational costs.

Passengers who purchase Business Select fares often assume they are receiving amenities equivalent to first class. While Business Select includes premium benefits such as A1–A15 boarding positions and complimentary drinks, the seating remains the same as standard economy seats.

Therefore, passengers should view these upgrades as improvements to the service level, not to the seating itself.

Southwest Airlines Business Class Upgrade: What You Really Get

Similarly, a southwest airlines business class upgrade is more about convenience than comfort. Business Select fares include:

• Guaranteed priority boarding
• Extra Rapid Rewards points
• Same-day standby benefits

However, there is no business-class cabin, wider seats, or extra legroom rows. The main advantage is boarding early enough to choose your preferred seat location.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting More Legroom?

Although Southwest does not sell extra legroom seats, travelers can still improve their chances of a more comfortable ride:

1. Check in early- Set a reminder for exactly 24 hours before departure
2. Purchase EarlyBird Check-In- Automatically assigns a better boarding position
3. Upgrade at the gate- If available, buy Upgraded Boarding
4. – Head straight for exit rows or bulkhead seats

These strategies are particularly useful on long-haul or high-demand flights.

Is a Southwest Airlines Seat Upgrade Worth It?

The value of a Southwest Airlines Seat upgrade depends on your travel needs and whether it's worth the cost. For short flights, the difference may be minimal. For longer journeys, early boarding can significantly improve comfort, especially if you secure an exit row seat.

Passengers who prioritize flexibility, faster boarding, and convenience will benefit most from these upgrades. Families, couples, and solo travelers often find Southwest's system easy and stress-free once they understand how it works.

Final Thoughts

Southwest Airlines Seat upgrade offers several seat upgrade options to enhance the travel experience. Passengers can enjoy more legroom, priority boarding, and other benefits by choosing upgraded seating. While these upgrades come at an extra cost, the added comfort and convenience can significantly improve your journey. Ultimately, whether or not you choose to upgrade depends on your budget and personal preferences, but the benefits can make your flight much more enjoyable. 

If you are experiencing any issues updating your Southwest Airlines seat, please contact myflightpolicy.com at +1-877-271-4004. They will guide you through the entire process and resolve all your travel-related problems, including booking, rebooking, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upgrade my seat to a Business Select seat on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest does not offer paid seat upgrades in the traditional sense. The way to receive Business Select benefits is by booking a Business Select fare or earning them through status (A-List/A-List Preferred) and policy changes.

What is the difference between Business Select and other fares on Southwest Airlines?

Business Select is more expensive, but it offers a higher boarding position (A1–A15) and several benefits, such as a free premium drink and more Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent. It also provides the option to choose a better seat at the time of booking.

How can I get an earlier boarding position on Southwest Airlines?

Booking a Business Select fare guarantees you a top boarding position. Otherwise, you can get priority boarding with your status (A-List/A-List Preferred) or purchase EarlyBird Check-In if available.

How do I upgrade with Rapid Rewards points on Southwest Airlines?

Southwest does not offer a direct "seat upgrade" option with points. You can use points to book a Business Select fare, where available, or use points for a standard Wanna Get Away/Anytime fare during redemption, based on current policies.

Can I upgrade my flight after booking it with Southwest Airlines?

If the option is available and you are willing to pay the fare difference, you can switch to a Business Select fare during the booking process, but you cannot upgrade in the middle of the flight.