Southwest Airlines is known for its unique open seating policy, which sets it apart from other carriers. On Southwest’s Boeing 737-800, there are no assigned seats—passengers board in groups and choose their seats on a first-come, first-served basis. This guide will help you navigate the seating options on Southwest’s Boeing 737-800, giving you tips on how to secure the best spot for comfort, legroom, and convenience.

Overview of Southwest’s Open Seating Policy

Southwest’s open seating means you won’t have a reserved seat when you board the plane. Instead, passengers are assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a boarding position (1-60) when they check in for their flight. The earlier your boarding position, the better chance you have at picking a prime seat.

Group A: The first passengers to board, typically those who paid for EarlyBird Check-In, Business Select, or are A-List elite members.
Group B: Board after Group A. Depending on your position in Group B, you may still get decent seat options.
Group C: Last to board. Often, only middle seats are left in the back of the plane.

Best Seats on Southwest’s Boeing 737-800

1. Exit Row Seats (Rows 14 and 15)

The exit rows on Southwest’s Boeing 737-800 offer extra legroom, making these seats some of the most coveted on the plane. Passengers sitting here must be willing and able to assist in an emergency, but the additional space makes it well worth the responsibility.

Pros: Maximum legroom in Economy.
Cons: Row 14 has limited or no recline due to the proximity to the exit door.

2. Bulkhead Seats (Row 1)

Bulkhead seats in Row 1 are positioned at the very front of the plane. These seats offer more space for your legs as there are no seats in front of you, but they come with a downside: there’s no under-seat storage, meaning all personal items must be placed in the overhead bins.

Pros: Extra legroom, first to deplane.
Cons: No under-seat storage, proximity to the galley.

3. Window Seats (Rows 2-10)

For passengers who prefer to enjoy the view or lean against the window for a nap, window seats in the front section of the aircraft (Rows 2-10) are a great choice. These seats are often quiet and provide privacy, making them ideal for a more relaxing flight.

Pros: Scenic views, more privacy.
Cons: Less convenient access to the aisle.

4. Aisle Seats (Rows 5-11)

If you value easy access to the aisle for restroom visits or to stretch your legs, aisle seats are the best option. The aisle seats between Rows 5-11 are especially convenient, as they are close to the front of the plane, ensuring a quicker exit upon landing.

Pros: Quick access to the aisle and restrooms.
Cons: You may have to stand up frequently to let others out.

5. Seats in the Front Section (Rows 2-5)

The seats in the front section of the plane, just behind the bulkhead, are great for those who want to deplane quickly and avoid the rush after landing. These seats also tend to be served first when the flight attendants start beverage and snack services.

Pros: Quick deplaning, first for meal and beverage service.
Cons: Closer proximity to the galley may result in some noise.

Seats to Avoid on Southwest’s Boeing 737-800

1. Rear Cabin Seats (Rows 29-30)

The rear section of Southwest’s Boeing 737-800, particularly Rows 29 and 30, is near the lavatories and galley, which means more foot traffic and potential noise. These seats also tend to be the last to deplane, which can be inconvenient for those with tight connections.

Cons: More noise from the lavatories, limited recline, last to deplane.

2. Middle Seats

If you board in Group C, you’ll likely end up with a middle seat, as window and aisle seats are usually taken by earlier groups. Middle seats provide less personal space and can make for a more uncomfortable flight, especially if you’re sandwiched between two other passengers.

Cons: Less space, harder to move around the cabin.

3. Row 30 (Back Row)

The last row of the Boeing 737-800 is often considered the least desirable due to the lack of recline and its proximity to the lavatories. Passengers seated here may experience more noise and disruptions throughout the flight.

Cons: No recline, constant traffic from passengers using the restrooms.

How to Get the Best Seats on Southwest Airlines

Since Southwest operates on an open seating policy, the key to getting the best seat is securing an early boarding position. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:

1. Check In Early

Check-in opens 24 hours before your flight. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position will be. Set an alarm to check in as soon as it opens to improve your chances of securing Group A or B.

2. Purchase EarlyBird Check-In

If you don’t want to worry about checking in early, EarlyBird Check-In guarantees you a better boarding position, as Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before your flight. While there’s a fee for this service, it’s worth it if you want to secure a prime seat.

3. Business Select

Passengers who purchase Business Select fares receive priority boarding in Group A (positions 1-15). If you’re flying on a busy route or during peak travel times, this fare class ensures you’re among the first to board.

4. A-List or A-List Preferred

Frequent flyers with A-List or A-List Preferred status also benefit from priority boarding. If you fly Southwest often, this status will help you consistently secure a better seat.

Conclusion

While Southwest Airlines operates with an open seating policy, there are still ways to secure the best seats on the Boeing 737-800 if you plan ahead. From exit row and bulkhead seats offering extra legroom to window and aisle seats for those who prioritize privacy or easy access, knowing where to sit can enhance your overall travel experience. By checking in early or purchasing EarlyBird Check-In, you can significantly improve your chances of getting your preferred seat.