How is Southwest Airlines?

Question

I'm thinking of flying from BWI to PROV.

My only gripe so far from searching the internet is that the cabin is a bit outmodeled.

Answer 1

I didn't start appreciating Southwest airlines until recently when I have flown on a couple of others. I like Southwest because every plane they fly is a 727 which is a good size jet instead of the little puddle jumpers other airlines stick you on for shorter destinations, like the one you are taking. I also like them for their flight attendants. On other airlines everything seems so generic. The flight attendants have been known to joke around on the intercom which lightens up the trip on a monotonous flight.

Answer 2

How can an passenger plane cabin be "outmodeled"? It's just long room with a semi-reclining chair on a row with 3 others!

It's great if you don't care where you sit in the plane since it's a first come first served type of arrangement which allows SWA to have really fast turnaround.

Like every public transportation service (bus, plane, subway, automobiles, etc.), there are times when things are not as clean as they should be (a bit of litter here and there), but it's basically the same as everyone else.

You can do everything from buying your ticket to getting your boarding pass online, so it's very convenient and CHEAP.

Answer 3

The main terminal where they started the business sucks. Never make a connection to Dallas Love Field. They are the only airline in a giant empty barn. You'll have to find a bus to dogleg over to DFW. You can see a plaque where LBJ took the oath of office for the Prez promotion.

They only offer bargain fare 3 weeks in advance. Don't expect any deals on reservations sooner than that. They only let you purchase 90 days in advance.

But, just like a lot of other stuff flying nowadays, nothing is perfect. Gotta take what is available.

Answer 4

They are pretty good. I have flown SouthWest many times and have had good and bad experiences. The boarding can be a pain. They let disabled and parents with small children board first. I have seen that abused so many times it's not even funny. Your best bet is to print your boarding pass at home before you go to the airport. You usually can print it 24 before your flight, sometimes earlier. If it is popular route, they usually over sell flights so it is a good idea to get there early and check in to guarantee yourself a seat.
Take a snake or something if you want to eat because all you will get is peanuts, perhaps a snack box.
Overall SouthWest is a pretty good airline.

Answer 5

Southwest doesnt have much in entertainment so you would want to bring something to keep you busy. The flight attendants are quite wacky so listen to what they have to say. They dont give you meals but they give you a snack box with Ritz crackers, 100 calorie oreos and some dried fruit. It's helpful to bring something to eat but they supply drinks. There isnt any assigned seating but you want to make sure to get your boarding passes on the computer 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE. Then you can be some of the first people to board. If you wait, then it will be harder to find a seat. Hope that helped

Answer 6

I flew Southwest a couple of times. Its not that bad, and the rates are reasonable. Sometimes you get really good deals if you book your flight at the right time.
The only thing that I didnt like is that they have a first come first serve seating arrangement. Usually I like to reserve my seat ahead of time either online when I book the flight, or atleast at check in.

Answer 7

They have great customer service, but the cattle call boarding is a mess. I hate it! Plus, the cabin is kinda outdated too.

Depending when you checkin, you're assigned to a group, A, B, or C. If you checked in early, chances are you'll get A. The later the checkin the chances are you'll get B or C. When they board the plane, A goes first, then B, and C.)

Answer 8

I am using Southwest for the first time in September. Flying from Providence, RI to Orlando.

I am already disappointed because the fare for my flight dropped price. (but that is ok, at least I have the flight I want.)

Answer 9

I've flown with Southwest several times including cross-country flights and I have always been pleased. The flight attendants are relaxed and try to make things more enjoyable...like joking when they do the safety talk at takeoff.

Answer 10

I flew Southwest once and I found it to be extremely dirty. Not only at the gate waiting to board but inside the plane itself. I found dirty used napkins, bits of food on the seat, etc. But hey Southwest is cheap so I guess you get what you pay for, huh? As I found out in my case.