Southwest Airlines has long offered EarlyBird Check-In, a paid option that improves a passenger’s boarding position and increases the chance of securing preferred seating. The airline recently increased the charge for this service by 20 percent, raising the fee to $15 for each one-way trip. Previously the fee was $12.50, and when the program first launched it cost $10.
Southwest explained the change in a statement, noting that the company periodically reviews prices to reflect market and operational conditions and to maintain the quality of its services. Adjustments like this help the airline balance customer expectations with the costs of running optional conveniences.
EarlyBird Check-In is particularly useful because Southwest uses an open seating policy rather than assigned seats. Boarding order is determined by when passengers check in: earlier check-ins receive earlier boarding positions and therefore have more seat choices, while later boarders often face limited options such as middle seats. Purchasing EarlyBird allows travelers to be automatically checked in up to 24 hours before departure, improving their chances of boarding earlier without having to monitor the 24-hour check-in window themselves.
Despite the fee increase for EarlyBird, Southwest remains unique among major U.S. carriers by allowing two checked bags per passenger at no additional charge. That benefit, combined with competitive fares and the convenience of complimentary checked baggage, continues to make Southwest a strong choice for many travelers.