Summary
- Southwest Airlines will allow free same-day standby for all passengers.
- The initiative aligns with customer benefits from other major airlines.
- Southwest is upgrading its inflight experience with free Wi-Fi and power ports.
Under the current policy, travelers in the “Wanna Get Away” fare class must pay the fare difference if they opt to fly same-day standby.
Southwest Airlines will allow all passengers to fly same-day standby for free, bringing the carrier in line with other major airlines in the United States.
The new benefit, which the airline told iBestTravel it hoped to launch by the end of August, will enable travelers who purchase a “Wanna Get Away” ticket to fly same-day standby without incurring any fees. Moreover, Southwest will introduce the ability to sign up for standby online or through the airline’s app.
“Last year, Southwest Airlines added ‘Wanna Get Away’ Plus and Transferable Flight Credit to our fare lineup as new benefits for Customers,” Southwest stated in a communication shared with iBestTravel. “Now, we’re introducing more fare enhancements as part of our ongoing commitment to provide Customers with more choices, more flexibility, and more value when they fly Southwest.”
Under the current policy, travelers in the “Wanna Get Away” fare class must pay the fare difference if they decide to fly same-day standby, according to the airline. Southwest currently allows free access to same-day standby for Rapid Rewards tier members as well as passengers flying on their “Business Select,” “Anytime,” or “Wanna Get Away Plus” fares.
For other changes, Southwest notably doesn’t charge change fees, instead only charging the difference in fares if someone alters their flight.
The decision to provide free same-day standby for all customers follows years after several other major U.S. carriers adopted similar policies. In 2021, United began allowing all passengers to fly same-day standby for free on both domestic and international routes. Subsequently, Delta followed suit. American Airlines also offers same-day standby at no cost.
In addition to simplifying flight changes, Southwest announced it will provide free inflight Wi-Fi for customers who purchase a “Business Select” fare. Consequently, these customers will be able to connect up to three devices per flight leg.
Additionally, the airline currently offers free Wi-Fi for its A-List Preferred customers.
Southwest is actively in the process of upgrading its onboard experience, which includes installing USB A and USB C power ports at every seat and enhancing Wi-Fi connections for a better traveling experience.
