Alaska Airlines vs Southwest Airlines

Side-by-side comparison of Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines: cabin and checked baggage allowances, fees, online check-in deadlines, alliances, hubs and contacts.

Alaska AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
Country United StatesUnited States
Founded 19321971
Type Full-service airlineLow-cost carrier
Alliance oneworld-
Main hubs Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Portland International AirportDallas/Fort Worth International Airport
Aircraft types 61
Cabin bag size 56 × 36 × 23 cm (22 × 14 × 9 in)-
Checked bag (Economy) 1 piece · 23 kg (51 lb)1 piece · 22.7 kg (50 lb)
First checked bag fee from 45 USDfrom 45 USD
Extra bag fee from 55 USDfrom 55 USD
Online check-in opens 24 h24 h
Online check-in closes 45 min30 min
Airport check-in fee freefree
Customer service phone 1-800-252-7522+1 214 792 40 00

Key differences

  • Alaska Airlines includes more checked baggage in the basic Economy fare: 1 piece · 23 kg (51 lb) vs 1 piece · 22.7 kg (50 lb) at Southwest Airlines.
  • Southwest Airlines lets you check in online closer to departure (30 min vs 45 min).
  • Southwest Airlines is a low-cost carrier: expect a cheaper base fare with bags, seats and airport check-in sold separately, while Alaska Airlines bundles more into the ticket.
  • Alaska Airlines is a oneworld member, so miles and status benefits carry over to partner airlines.

Other comparisons

Allowances shown are for the basic Economy fare on most routes. Fees are the lowest published prices and change often - confirm on the official websites before booking.