Southwest Airlines flight check-in
United StatesSouthwest Airlines online check-in opens 24 h before departure and closes 30 min before departure. Online check-in is free.
| Online check-in opens | 24 h before departure |
|---|---|
| Online check-in closes | 30 min before departure |
| Airport counters close | 30 min before departure |
| Check-in fee | online check-in is free |
| Boarding pass | mobile boarding pass, print at home |
| Mobile app check-in | available |
| Self-service kiosks | available |
Times apply to most routes; long-haul, US and some airport-specific deadlines differ. Confirm on the official website before travelling.
How online check-in works
Online check-in opens exactly 24 hours before your scheduled departure time and closes 30 minutes before departure for domestic flights or 60 minutes for international flights. There are no fees for check-in via any method.
Steps to check in online:
- Visit Southwest.com or open the Southwest mobile app 24 hours before departure.
- Enter your confirmation number and last name.
- Select your boarding position (based on your check-in time).
- Receive your boarding pass digitally or print it at home or airport kiosks.
Practical tip: Set a reminder for exactly 24 hours before departure to secure an earlier boarding position, especially for popular routes or peak travel times.
What if I miss online check-in?
Can I check in at the airport without using online check-in?
Southwest Airlines punctuality
last 30 daysBased on flights observed by this site over the period, not on official statistics. Updated daily.