What Is the Change Policy for Southwest Airlines?
- Ellie clark
- 22 minutes ago
- 3 min read
What Is the Change Policy for Southwest Airlines?
Southwest is widely known for keeping things simple — and that applies to their flight change rules too. If you're facing a work commitment, a family emergency, or even just a gut feeling to shift your travel plans, the Southwest Airlines Flight Change Policy has your back. Unlike many airlines that complicate the process, Southwest gives you the freedom to change your plans without stressing over fees.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly how and when you can change your Southwest flight — without losing money or time.
No Change Fees — Always
Southwest doesn’t charge change fees for any fare type — not for Wanna Get Away, Anytime, or Business Select fares. It’s one of the few U.S. airlines to make this a permanent policy, and it’s been a game-changer for travelers.
You’ll only pay the fare difference if your new flight costs more than the one you originally booked. If the new flight is cheaper, Southwest will either credit you the difference or offer a travel fund, depending on the fare type.
How Late Can You Make a Change?
Southwest lets you make changes up to 10 minutes before the flight's scheduled departure. This is extremely flexible compared to most airlines, which often cut off changes 24 hours in advance.
Flight changes can be done quickly and easily through their website or mobile app — no need to call unless you’d rather speak to someone.
Changing Departure Time on the Same Day
Need to switch to a flight later or earlier on the same day? If seats are available and there aren’t any restrictions on your route, you can make a same-day change without a change fee. Again, you’ll just pay any fare difference.
Some airports even allow standby travel, depending on availability and route.
Refunds or Travel Credits? It Depends on Your Fare
Not all fares are refundable, but you can still cancel and receive credit for future travel. Here’s how it works:
Wanna Get Away: Non-refundable, but travel credit is issued for future use
Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, and Business Select: Refundable or transferable credit, depending on your checkout selection
To avoid losing your funds, be sure to cancel or change your flight at least 10 minutes before departure. Miss that window, and you risk forfeiting the fare unless your ticket is refundable.
How to Change Your Southwest Flight (Step-by-Step)
Visit the Southwest website or open the mobile app
Click on Manage Reservations
Enter your confirmation number and last name
Select the flight you want to modify
Choose your new flight and review any fare differences
Confirm your changes — your updated itinerary will be sent via email
It’s fast, easy, and doesn’t require filling out long forms.
Things You Should Keep in Mind
Watch for Sales: Rebooking during fare drops might save you money
Track Travel Funds: They typically have extended expiration dates — don’t let them go to waste
No Name Changes: Even with flexibility, Southwest tickets are non-transferable to other people
Need Help Rebooking?
Changing your Southwest flight is simple — until you hit a snag. Fare rules, credits, or last-minute rebooking decisions can get confusing. That’s where we step in. At aeroflyticket, we help travelers with flight changes, cancellations, and rebookings — no stress, no long hold times, and no confusion.
English Support: +1-855-956-2158 Spanish Support: +52-800-953-1667
We’re available 24/7, every day of the year.
Final Thoughts
The Southwest Airlines Flight Change Policy proves that not every airline makes rebooking a nightmare. With zero change fees, flexible refund and credit options, and same-day change availability, Southwest is truly built for the modern traveler.
So the next time life shifts your plans, don’t panic — you’ve got flexible options, and aeroflyticket is here to make the process even easier.
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