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Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlinebaggage requirements are that passengers are entitled to one item of carry-on baggage per person. This carry-on bag must not exceed 10 x 16 x 24 inches (25 x 40 x 60cm). In addition to this, passengers are allowed to bring one personal item with them on the flight, for example, a small rucksack, a handbag, a briefcase, or a laptop. This small personal item must not exceed the overall dimensions of 18.5 x 8.5 x 13.5 inches (46 x 22 x 34 cm). You musn't pack any prohibited items in your carry-on as they will be removed and thrown away at airporrt security. Prohibited items include liquids over 100ml, sharp objects, illegal substances and explosives.

Passengers are allowed two items of checked baggage free of charge. Southwest Airlines checked baggage weight limit is 50lb (22kg) per piece and its overall dimension is62 inches (157 cm) (L x W x H).

Economy Class Facilities

Economy class passengers receive free in-flight entertainment, including films and tv shows. All seating is open-seating, meaning that passengers simply choose their seats once they are on the plane. This avoids having to rush to get to check-in or pre-select your seat.

Economy Class Seats

The seats on the Southwest fleet range from 31-33 inch pitch and 17 - 17.8 inches wide with 2 inches recline and adjustable headrests. This is reported to be one of the most comfortable economy seats on low-cost carriers, as the company has larger-than-average seats with enhanced cushion support in the seat.

There is no premium economy currently available with this airline.

Southwest has a booking fare called Business Select, which allows passengers certain privileges when flying with this airline. Although the onboard seating arrangements will be the same as every other passenger, such as being in the same cabin, Business Select passengers get priority features that enhance their experience.

Business Class Facilities

Passengers will get guaranteed priority boarding, which is perfect for the open-seating plan, as passengers can enter the plane first, choose their seat and settle before the rest of the passengers are permitted on the plane. Check-in is also quicker, with lines all being fast-tracked for security and check-in. Passengers in Business will also receive a complimentary premium drink voucher to use on the day of travel, which includes options for alcoholic beverages.

What is the Business Class Seats Like?

The seats for business class are just the same as economy class, which are described above.

There is currently no first-class offered on this airline.

For passengers flying on Southwest Airlines, web check-in reservation is available on all flights. You can check in online by visiting the online check-in page and entering your confirmation number, first and last name. Online check-in opens 24 hours before to one hour prior to scheduled flight departure time.

Airport check-in can be completed by visiting the dedicated check-in counters at the airport of departure. Airport check-in opens three hours before the scheduled Southwest Airline departure time and generally closes 30 minutes to one hour before.

This airline operates a frequent flyer program called Rapid Rewards to reward its regular passengers.

In 2011, Rapid Rewards changed to a points system based on ticket cost. Members earn and redeem points based on a three-tier fare scale multiplier and the cost of the ticket. Changes also included no blackout dates, seat restrictions or expiring credits. It also adds more options to use points.

It's now easier than ever to collect frequent flyer points easily with Alternative Airlines and enjoy the benefits of your chosen alliance. If you have not yet chosen an Airline Alliance, check out our article to find out which frequent flyer program is best for you.

When making your booking through Alternative Airlines, it is easy to collect your frequent flyer points. Simply select Rapid Rewards from the drop-down option during the flight-booking process and add your unique membership number.