A Southwest flight change lets eligible travellers adjust their itinerary when their plans change. For most Southwest fares, the airline does not charge a separate change fee, although a fare or tax difference may apply when the new flight costs more. Basic fares have different rules because they must first be upgraded to an eligible fare before a change can be made.
What does the Southwest flight change policy allow?
The Southwest flight change policy depends mainly on your fare type, itinerary and the type of change you need. Choice, Choice Preferred and Choice Extra fares allow flight changes, with any applicable fare difference payable. Basic fares cannot be changed directly; Southwest states that customers must first upgrade to Choice, Choice Preferred or Choice Extra.
You can generally change a flight online through the Southwest website or app. We recommend reviewing your existing booking, the new flight price and the fare conditions before confirming the change.
How can you change a Southwest flight online?
The Southwest change flight online process is designed to be straightforward:
- Open the Southwest website or app and access Manage Reservations.
- Retrieve your booking using the requested reservation details.
- Select the Change option.
- Choose a new flight that suits your plans.
- Review the new fare and any applicable taxes or charges.
- Confirm the change and save your updated confirmation details.
This Southwest change booking process can normally be completed without calling an agent. However, certain bookings may require assistance. For example, Southwest advises customers travelling with a lap child to contact a Customer Representative.
If you need help understanding your booking options, independent travel information assistance is also available at +1-877-240-6770.
Is there a Southwest flight change fee?
The standard Southwest flight change fee is $0. However, this does not necessarily mean every change costs nothing. If the replacement flight has a higher fare, you may need to pay the difference. Government taxes and fees can also apply in certain circumstances.
For example, changing from a lower-priced flight to a more expensive flight may require an additional payment, while moving to a cheaper flight can have different credit or fare-rule implications depending on the ticket.
Can you make a Southwest flight date change or time change?
A Southwest flight date change or Southwest flight time change may be possible when your fare permits changes. You can look for another available flight through Manage Reservations and compare the applicable fare difference before confirming.
Southwest states that customers can make changes up to 10 minutes before the original scheduled departure time. If you do not change or cancel the reservation by that point, the no-show policy may apply.
Because availability and prices can change, it is sensible to check alternative flights as soon as you know your plans have changed. For booking-related guidance, you can also reach our travel information support line at +1-877-240-6770.
How does Southwest same-day flight change work?
A Southwest same-day flight change allows eligible customers to move to an earlier or later flight on the same calendar day, provided there is an available seat and the origin and destination airports remain the same. Choice, Choice Preferred and Choice Extra fares include same-day change benefits, while Basic fares generally need to be upgraded first.
For app or mobile-web requests, Southwest says the change must generally be made at least 60 minutes before the new domestic flight or 90 minutes before the new international flight. The original seat and boarding group are not guaranteed.
Who is eligible for a Southwest flight change?
Southwest flight change eligibility varies according to the fare and booking circumstances. Choice, Choice Preferred and Choice Extra fares permit regular flight changes, while Basic fares require a fare upgrade before making a change. Special bookings, vacation packages or reservations involving specific passenger circumstances may have additional procedures.
If you are unsure which option applies to your ticket, have your confirmation details available before seeking travel assistance at +1-877-240-6770.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Southwest charge a flight change fee?
Southwest currently states that it does not charge a separate change fee, although a fare difference or applicable taxes and fees may apply.
2. Can I change my Southwest flight online?
Yes. Most eligible reservations can be changed through Manage Reservations on the Southwest website or app.
3. Can I change my Southwest flight on the same day?
Eligible travellers can make a same-day change to another flight between the same origin and destination when an appropriate seat is available. Fare restrictions apply.
4. Can I change the date of my Southwest flight?
Yes, if your fare and reservation are eligible. You can select another available flight and review any fare difference before confirming the change.
5. What if I need help with my Southwest booking?
You can review your reservation online or seek independent travel information assistance at +1-877-240-6770. Have your booking details ready so the relevant options can be explained clearly.
Final takeaway
A Southwest flight change can usually be managed online without a separate change fee, but fare differences, taxes, fare restrictions and eligibility still matter. Check your fare type first, compare the replacement flight, and make the change before the applicable deadline to avoid no-show consequences.