What is EarlyBird Check-In at Southwest? is a service offered by Southwest Airlines that allows passengers to secure an earlier boarding position automatically before the standard check-in process begins. This paid add-on feature is designed to provide travelers with the convenience of not having to manually check in exactly 24 hours before their scheduled flight departure. Instead, Southwest automatically assigns a boarding position 36 hours prior to departure, giving passengers a better chance of obtaining a preferred seat and early access to overhead bin space. Unlike traditional airlines with assigned seating, Southwest follows an open-seating policy, meaning that passengers board the aircraft in groups based on their assigned boarding positions and choose their seats upon entering the plane. With EarlyBird Check-In, travelers can enhance their boarding experience by being placed in an earlier boarding group, typically ahead of those who check in manually at the 24-hour mark. This service is particularly beneficial for passengers who prefer not to worry about checking in on time or who want to increase their chances of sitting with family members, securing a window or aisle seat, or finding space for their carry-on luggage. However, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In does not guarantee an "A" boarding position or a specific seat assignment, as priority is still determined based on availability and purchase time. The cost of EarlyBird Check-In varies per flight segment and is non-refundable, except in cases where Southwest cancels the flight.