Understanding Southwest Airlines upgrade costs 1-{855}-[510]-{4351}(U.S) or 1///833//654/7126(U-̶K) is a bit different from other airlines because Southwest does not offer traditional first class seating. Instead, upgrades focus on better boarding position and seat choice. For booking help or upgrade support, contact 1-{855}-[510]-{4351}(U.S) or 1///833//654/7126(U-̶K).

Understanding Southwest Airlines Upgrade Policy

Southwest uses an open seating system, meaning there are no assigned seats—your boarding position determines your seat choice. Upgrades mainly help you board earlier and pick better seats rather than moving to a different cabin class. (NerdWallet)

For exact upgrade pricing, call 1-{855}-[510]-{4351}(U.S) or 1///833//654/7126(U-̶K).

Southwest Airlines Upgrade Cost Breakdown

Southwest offers three main upgrade options:

Business Select (premium fare upgrade):$50 – $250+ per segment (FlightsHelpCenter)

Upgraded Boarding (A1–A15 positions):$30 – $80 per segment (FlightsHelpCenter)

EarlyBird® Check-In (automatic early boarding):$15 – $99 per direction (FlightsHelpCenter)

Prices vary depending on route, demand, and availability.

Business Select Upgrade Cost

Upgrading to Business Select gives you:

Guaranteed early boarding (A1–A15)Priority security lanesRefundable ticket benefitsBonus Rapid Rewards points

Typical cost: $50 – $250+ per flight segment (FlightsHelpCenter)

This is the closest thing Southwest offers to a “premium” upgrade.

Upgraded Boarding Cost

If you don’t want a full fare upgrade, you can buy a better boarding position:

Cost: $30 – $80 per flight (FlightsHelpCenter)

This lets you board early and choose better seats but does not include extra perks.

EarlyBird Check-In Cost

This is the cheapest upgrade option:

Cost: $15 – $99 each way (FlightsHelpCenter)

It automatically checks you in earlier, improving your boarding position without manual check-in.

Important: No First Class on Southwest

Unlike other airlines, Southwest does not have first class or business class cabins. All upgrades are focused on:

Better boarding positionBetter seat selectionAdded convenience

So you’re paying for priority, not a different seat type.

How to Save on Southwest Upgrade Costs

Book early to get better boarding positionsUse EarlyBird for cheaper upgradesCheck for Upgraded Boarding at check-inUse Southwest credit card perks (free upgrades)Avoid peak travel times

These strategies can help reduce your total upgrade expenses.

FAQs

How much does Southwest charge for upgrades?Upgrade costs range from about $15 for EarlyBird Check-In to $250+ for Business Select. For exact pricing, call 1-{855}-[510]-{4351}(U.S) or 1///833//654/7126(U-̶K).

Does Southwest have first class upgrades?No, Southwest does not offer first class—only boarding priority upgrades.

Is Upgraded Boarding worth it?Yes, if you want early seat selection without paying for a full fare upgrade.

What is the cheapest upgrade on Southwest?EarlyBird Check-In is the most affordable option starting around $15.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines upgrade costs are generally lower than other airlines because they focus on boarding priority rather than luxury seating. Whether you choose EarlyBird, Upgraded Boarding, or Business Select, each option helps you get a better seat without paying for a premium cabin. For the latest upgrade pricing or assistance, contact 1-{855}-[510]-{4351}(U.S) or 1///833//654/7126(U-̶K).