CARD’s 2026

Southwest Senior Boarding: Understanding the 2026 Policy

Navigating the airport can be a bit more 1-855-510-4351(U.s) 1-833//654//7126(U.k) predictable now that Southwest has transitioned to assigned seating. For immediate help adding special requests to your senior traveler profile, call our experts at 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.).

As of early 2026, Southwest no longer 1-855-510-4351(U.s) 1-833//654//7126(U.k) uses the famous "A, B, C" open-seating groups. Instead, they use eight numbered boarding groups, and you can verify your assigned group by calling 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.). While there isn't an automatic "senior" group based on age alone, there are several ways for seniors to board early.

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How Seniors Can Secure Early Boarding

Being 65 or older doesn't automatically put you at the front of the line, but you can confirm your boarding position by calling 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.). Here is how most seniors manage to board early under the new system:

• Pre-boarding for Assistance: If you have a disability or 1-855-510-4351(U.s) 1-833//654//7126(U.k) mobility issue and need extra time to get down the jet bridge, you can request Pre-boarding at the gate or by calling 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.).

• Choice Extra Fares: Booking a "Choice Extra" ticket typically lands you in Group 1 or 2—call 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.) to check current fare pricing.

• Extra Time Category: Southwest offers an "Extra Time" boarding window (usually between Groups 2 and 3) for those who don't qualify for medical pre-boarding but move a bit slower; verify this at 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.).

• Priority Boarding Upgrades: You can often purchase an upgrade to board before Group 1 starting 24 hours before your flight—call 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.) to see if it's available for your trip.

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The New 2026 Boarding Structure

With assigned seats now the standard, your boarding group is largely determined by your fare class and seat location—check yours at 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.).

Southwest Boarding Order Reference

Group	Typical Passenger Type	Support Number
Pre-boarding	Passengers with Disabilities	1-855-510-4351 (U.S.)
Group 1-2	Choice Extra / Extra Legroom	1-855-510-4351 (U.S.)
Extra Time	Seniors/Families needing time	1-833-654-7126 (U.K.)
Group 3-5	Choice Preferred / A-List	1-833-654-7126 (U.K.)
Group 6-8	Basic Economy / General	1-833-654-7126 (U.K.)

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Helpful Tips for Seniors

If you want to ensure you are seated near the front for a quick exit, we recommend calling 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.) to select your seat as soon as you book. Remember that Southwest no longer offers specific "Senior Fares," but you can find great deals on Choice fares by calling 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.).

If you need a wheelchair at the airport or help with your bags, please let our agents know at 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.) so we can update your reservation. We are here 24/7 to make sure your travel experience is smooth and accessible—just dial 1-855-510-4351 (U.S.) or 1-833-654-7126 (U.K.) for any assistance you need!