Southwest Airlines Flight Change Policy

Southwest Airlines Flight Change: Southwest Airlines is widely recognized for offering one of the most flexible flight change policies in the airline industry. Unlike many carriers that impose expensive change fees, Southwest prioritizes customer convenience and transparency. Whether your travel plans shift due to work commitments, personal reasons, or unexpected events, understanding the Southwest Airlines Flight Change Policy can help you make changes smoothly without unnecessary costs.

This detailed guide explains how Southwest handles flight changes, including fare differences, timelines, fare types, same-day changes, and Rapid Rewards bookings.

Overview of Southwest Airlines Flight Change Policy

Southwest Airlines allows passengers to change their flight without paying traditional change fees. This applies to all fare types, making Southwest a popular choice for travelers who value flexibility. However, while there are no change fees, passengers may need to pay the difference in fare if the new flight is more expensive.

Flight changes can be made easily through the Southwest website, mobile app, or by contacting customer service.

No Change Fees – What It Means

One of Southwest’s standout features is its no change fee policy. This means:

You can change your flight date, time, or routing without paying a penalty
The policy applies to both domestic and international flights
Fare differences still apply if the new ticket costs more

If the new flight costs less, the difference is returned as travel credit or refunded, depending on the fare type.

Flight Change Policy by Fare Type

Southwest Airlines offers several fare options, and the outcome of a flight change depends on the fare purchased.

Wanna Get Away® Fare

Wanna Get Away fares are the most affordable Southwest tickets and remain flexible despite being non-refundable.

No flight change fees
Pay the fare difference if the new flight is more expensive
Receive travel funds if the new flight is cheaper
Travel funds are issued in the passenger’s name

This fare is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want flexibility.

Wanna Get Away Plus™

Wanna Get Away Plus offers enhanced flexibility compared to the standard Wanna Get Away fare.

No change fees
Refundable fare difference as transferable flight credit
Credits can be transferred to another traveler
Priority boarding benefits included

This option is suitable for travelers who anticipate changes and want transferable credits.

Anytime Fare

Anytime fares provide greater flexibility and refund options.

No change fees
Fare difference refunded to the original form of payment if applicable
Ideal for travelers with uncertain schedules
Changes allowed up to departure time

Anytime fares are popular among business travelers.

Business Select® Fare

Business Select is Southwest’s premium fare and offers maximum flexibility.

No change fees
Refunds processed to the original payment method
Same-day changes available at no extra cost
Priority boarding and bonus Rapid Rewards points

This fare provides peace of mind for frequent or last-minute travelers.

Same-Day Flight Change Policy

Southwest Airlines allows same-day flight changes, subject to seat availability.

Changes can be made on the day of travel
No change fee applies
Fare difference may apply
Available for earlier or later flights

Same-day changes are especially useful for travelers whose plans shift unexpectedly.

How to Change a Southwest Airlines Flight

Changing a Southwest flight is simple and can be done in multiple ways:

Online via Southwest Website
Enter your confirmation number and passenger name to access your booking.
Southwest Mobile App
Manage, change, or rebook flights conveniently from your phone.
Customer Support
Speak with a representative for assistance with complex changes.

Once the change is confirmed, you’ll receive an updated itinerary via email.

Flight Change Policy for Rapid Rewards Bookings

Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program offers exceptional flexibility when changing flights booked with points.

No change fees
Points are adjusted automatically
Additional points required if the new flight costs more
Excess points refunded instantly if the new flight costs less
Taxes and fees adjusted accordingly

This makes Rapid Rewards one of the most traveler-friendly loyalty programs.

International Flight Change Policy

Southwest Airlines also allows changes to international flights without charging a change fee.

No penalties for modifying international bookings
Fare difference applies based on availability
Taxes and fees may change depending on the route

Passengers should review passport and visa requirements when changing international itineraries.

Missed Flight and No-Show Policy

While Southwest is flexible, passengers must change or cancel flights before departure.

Missing a flight without notice may result in loss of ticket value
Wanna Get Away fares are most affected by no-shows
Refundable fares offer more protection

To protect your ticket value, always modify your booking before the scheduled departure time.

Flight Changes Due to Schedule Changes or Delays

If Southwest Airlines changes your flight schedule significantly:

You may rebook without additional cost
Refunds may be available depending on the situation
Customer service can assist with rebooking options

Passengers are not penalized for airline-initiated changes.

Key Benefits of Southwest Airlines Flight Change Policy

Southwest’s policy offers several traveler-friendly advantages:

No flight change fees
Easy online and mobile changes
Flexible fare options
Instant travel credits or refunds
Transparent pricing with no hidden penalties

These benefits make Southwest a preferred airline for flexible travel planning.

Final Thoughts

The Southwest Airlines Flight Change Policy is designed to give travelers maximum freedom and confidence. With no change fees, simple online tools, and flexible fare options, Southwest removes the stress often associated with modifying travel plans. Whether you need to adjust dates, times, or destinations, Southwest allows you to make changes with minimal hassle.

By understanding how fare types, travel credits, and timing affect your booking, you can take full advantage of Southwest’s customer-first approach and travel with peace of mind.