Southwest Airlines Same Day Flight Change Policy

Jan 23

4 min read

Are you looking for a same-day flight change? If yes, then you’re at the right place. Southwest Airlines Same-Day Flight Change Policy allows you to change your flight on the same day if there’s an open seat on the next flight with the same destination and origin. This complete guide explains the procedure for same-day flight changes, the standby option, and the associated fees.

Can I Change My Southwest flight on the same day?

Yes, you can apply for same-day flight change on Southwest Airlines at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure. You can also join the same-day flight change list 24 hours before the flight takes off to get a confirmed seat.

What is Southwest Same Day Flight Change Policy?

If you’re planning to change the travel dates and are willing to book a flight earlier or want to reach the destination on the same day, then Southwest Same-Day Flight Change Policy allows you to join the same-day flight change and standby list. Here are the two options. You can join as you need.

Same-Day Flight Change: Southwest provides a same-day flight change option, enabling you to adjust your itinerary to arrive at your destination later on the same day.
Same-Day Standby List: If you want to reach your destination earlier, apply for the standby list as soon as possible to get an open seat without paying any fees. However, a confirmed seat is not guaranteed, so be flexible with your travel dates.

How to Make Southwest Flight Same Day Changes?

If you want to change your Southwest flight on the same day as the scheduled departure, you can simply change your flight using digital and conventional methods. Here are several methods to make same-day flight changes.

Online Changes

If you want to change a same-day flight from the comfort of your home, visit the official Southwest Airlines website or log in to the official mobile app. Make sure you can make these changes up to 10 minutes before your original flight’s departure. Read the given steps below to make a same-day flight change.

Visit the official website of Southwest Airlines.
Go to the ‘Manage Reservations’ section.
Fill in the confirmation number and last and full name.
Select the flight you want to change.
Search for the next available flight at your convenience.
Review the changes and proceed to the payment.
After confirmation, you’ll receive an e-ticket for new flight bookings via email or SMS.

Through Call

If you’re uncomfortable with the online process, simply dial the Southwest Airlines customer service number. Within a few seconds, you’ll be connected to a live calling session with an agent. You have to follow the prompts, and with the guidance, you can change the flight to the same day of scheduled departure. Here are the steps to make

Southwest Airlines Same-Day Flight Change over the call.

Call the Southwest Airlines customer service at +1(800) 912-9792.
A Southwest agent will join shortly over the call.
Request the agent to make a same-day flight change.
Provide the confirmation number and last and full name.
The agent will fetch out the booking details.
Select the flight you want to make changes.
As per your need, the agent will make changes to your itinerary.
At last, pay for the same day flight change, if applicable.
Southwest will send a confirmation receipt through email or SMS.

At the Airport

In case of technical glitches and network errors, you can simply visit the help desk center at the airport and meet the executive. To know the entire procedure in detail, read the given points below.

Contact the help desk at your city's nearest airport.
Meet the assistant and request the agent to make a same-day flight change.
Provide the confirmation number and last and full name.
Select the flight that you need to modify.
The agent will show the next available flight.
Choose the flight at your convenience.
Review the changes and submit an associated fee.
You’ll receive an email or SMS confirmation shortly after booking.

Does Southwest Charge Fee for Same Day Flight Changes?

No, Southwest doesn’t charge any same-day flight change fees. However, you need to pay the difference in the fare if the new ticket bookings exceed those of an earlier flight. If you’re upgrading your “Wanna Get Away” fare to a more expensive flight, you need to pay the fee to cover the difference. On the other hand, those with “Anytime” or “Business Select” tickets often have more flexibility and may qualify for same-day changes without paying a fare difference.

Does Southwest Provide same-day standby?

Yes, Southwest offers a same-day stand by option free of cost business Select, Anytime, and Wanna Get Away Plus fares. To join the Southwest Same-Day Standby list, put your name at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure.

Last-Minute Tips to Avoid Southwest Same-Day Flight Fee

Understanding these last-minute tips will enhance the convenience and enjoyment of your journey. If you’re open to making same-day flight changes and want to learn how to avoid extra fees, read the mentioned points below.

Book Flexible Tickets: Southwest doesn’t charge additional fees on ‘Anytime’ or ‘Business Select’ fares, so it is advised to book these fares to avoid extra costs.
Check Flight Availability: Before joining the Southwest Airlines Same Day Flight Change list, search for an alternative flight earlier to get better options.
Compare Fares: Analyze the fare prices on different platforms, such as low-fare calendars or mobile apps.
Join Standby List: To get a confirmed seat, you can join the same-day standby list to reach your destination.

Conclusion

If you’re dealing with other commitments and need to change your flight on the same day or want to catch an earlier flight, then Southwest Airlines Same-Day Flight Change is a suitable option to change your itinerary. By understanding the policies and last-minute tips, you can deal with such situations in advance to avoid any inconvenience in the future. If you’ve any queries about same-day flight change, call Southwest customer service at +1(800) 912-9792.